A Losing Game of Love novel Chapter 9

At my wedding, just five minutes before I was about to appear, my mother-in-law pulled me aside and whispered, "Dear daughter, after the wedding, should you return the $20,000 bride price?"

I was taken aback. "What do you mean? Haven't we already returned the bride price? We only kept $20,000."

Considering that my husband Jackson's family isn't wealthy, the bride price was supposed to be $188,000 plus three pieces of gold jewelry. My family only accepted $100,000 without the jewelry and even returned $88,000, keeping only $20,000 out of courtesy.

"I know it!" my mother-in-law said sharply. "I'm referring to the $20,000 that your family kept!"

I was stunned. "What do you mean, Mom? Our family only kept a little over $20,000. If I return it, we will have nothing left!"

"Do you think you can have a daughter-in-law for free?" she retorted.

"Look at you, why are you getting angry again!" she said, clearly unhappy. "I don't intend to keep this $20,000. I'm worried you might spend extravagantly, so I want to help you save it and return it to you when you really need it!"

"Besides, it's not as if you have nothing left. Your family still has $2,000!"

At that moment, a hotel waiter hurried over. "The bride is supposed to be on stage now. You'll be late if you don't go soon."

My mother-in-law's expression brightened instantly. She gave me a reassuring push. "All right, mother won't hurt you. I'm only looking out for your best interests. Now, go!"

Rushing against the clock, I finally made it to the stage. The ceremony proceeded smoothly, and the officiant set a perfect tone for the occasion.

"Now, let our bride and groom exchange rings!" the officiant announced.

Amid the cheers of our relatives and friends, the best man and bridesmaid approached with two ring boxes. As I raised my left hand, Jackson remained still, not moving.