After the Split-up, I Spurned His Third Try

"Madeline, it's all family here at the engagement party today, so I'm just going to speak my mind," Emma said.

She glared at me, full of herself.

"Since you're already pregnant, let's keep the ceremony simple.

"The bride price is just a formality anyway since it's all coming back to us. So, why bother with it? It's such a hassle.

"As for the house, sell your place and buy a bigger one. We'll be moving in with you, so I can help take care of the baby."

She said it all so righteously, unwilling to give me anything.

My mom was shaking with anger, and my dad was turning livid. I quickly tried to calm them down.

I glanced at Erasmo, who was sitting there with his head down like a scared quail.

I understood right away.

Turning to Emma, I said, "If that's the case, then let's forget about the dowry too. It's just a formality. My family won't provide one."

As soon as Emma heard that, she exploded.

She said, "No way! The dowry has to be substantial. At least 300 thousand dollars plus a car."

I gave a cold laugh. What a double standard!

I said, "Marriage is just a formality, right? After the wedding, I'll go back to my parents' place. No need to buy a house.

"And the child's surname is just a formality too, so the baby can have my last name.

"Or maybe your son should marry into my family. After all, it's just a formality."

Erasmo finally stepped in to smooth things over.

He said, "Alright, alright. My mom was just joking."

Emma wanted to say more, but Erasmo pulled her aside. They whispered for a long time, and then she came back with a forced smile.

My parents looked at me, worried. I patted my mom's hand to reassure her.

They thought I was weak.

They thought they could treat me like a pushover.

Well, they had another thing coming.