Chapter 3

The next day was Saturday.

I was the first to wake up. By the time I'd made a simple breakfast, she was just rubbing her eyes, emerging from the bedroom.

"Any plans for today?"

I took a sip of milk, asking casually.

She lowered her head, stirring her oatmeal with a spoon, looking drained. "What plans could I have? Going back to the office to work overtime, of course. The project's been hectic lately, and the client's demands are high."

"Oh, take care of yourself."

She nodded, saying no more.

She quickly finished her meal, then went to get ready, applying makeup and changing clothes.

Before she left, she stood in the entryway putting on her heels.

I watched her meticulously drawn brows and eyes, and her lips, a shade brighter than usual, and slowly began, "Will you be home for dinner tonight?"

She opened the door, not looking back.

"Not sure, depends on the progress. Don't wait for me."

The door clicked shut.

I walked to the window, looking downstairs.

Soon, her familiar figure appeared at the community entrance, but she didn't head towards the usual bus stop.

Instead, she got straight into a black Mercedes that had appeared by the curb.

The car windows were tinted dark; I couldn't see inside.

But I knew that car, and I knew who was driving it.

I pulled out my phone and made a call:

"Hey, Mark, I need a favor..."

The midday sun was a bit blinding.

Carrying carefully chosen gifts, I knocked on the Davies' door without giving Serena's parents any prior notice.

Mrs. Davies's face showed a flicker of surprise when she opened the door, quickly replaced by warmth.

Mr. Davies also rose from the sofa, smiling as he came to greet me.

"Alex, what a surprise! Serena's not with you?"

Mrs. Davies took the clearly expensive gifts from my hands, her tone cordial.

"She's working overtime this weekend. I thought I hadn't visited you in a while, so I came by myself."

"Perfect timing! I'll cook a few extra dishes. You must try my cooking!"

The dining table was laden with food, and Mrs. Davies kept piling my plate.

The conversation soon shifted from pleasantries to the main topic.

"Alex, you and Serena have been together for years now. This wedding... isn't it time to set a date?"

Mr. Davies put down his forks, his voice tentative.

I swallowed my food, a perfectly measured smile on my face. "Mr. and Mrs. Davies, don't worry. I've already decided on the wedding, just waiting to discuss the exact date with Serena."

"As for the bridal gifts..."

I paused, noting how they both unconsciously leaned forward.

"My family and I have agreed: a million dollars cash."

I spoke calmly, as if discussing something trivial.

Mr. and Mrs. Davies both froze, exchanged glances, unable to hide their astonishment.

"And," I continued, "a fully-paid luxury apartment downtown, no less than 150 square meters, and a BMW car. All registered solely in Serena's name."

The air was silent for a moment.

"A... a million? And an apartment and a car?"

Mrs. Davies's voice trembled, laced with disbelief and joy.

"Alex, this... Serena never mentioned your family was so well-off?"

I knew they would ask and had my answer ready.

"Just lucky, I guess."

I smiled, my tone casual, with a humble air of "it's not for public knowledge."

"A property deal back home came through recently, and we received a significant payout. My parents thought it was perfect timing for us to start our family."

The reason was simple, direct, and hard to verify.

An unexpected windfall – a classic American dream, capable of explaining any sudden improvement in financial status.

Their doubts vanished instantly, replaced by immense delight.

Mr. Davies clapped my shoulder heartily, his face beaming. "Wonderful! Wonderful! Alex, knowing Serena is with you, we're completely at ease!"

Mrs. Davies couldn't stop smiling, looking at me as if I were a shining goldmine.

I sneered inwardly.

See how realistic they are.

Before, they were polite enough, but always with a hint of scrutiny and calculation towards an ordinary working-class prospective son-in-law.

Now, with a million dollars, a house, and a car thrown in, their attitude completely changed.

"Mr. and Mrs. Davies," I continued to sweeten the deal, acting like the most dutiful son-in-law, "after Serena and I get married and settled, I'll arrange a time to take you both on a trip to Europe. All expenses covered. You can browse, buy whatever you like."

"Europe?"

Mrs. Davies exclaimed, her eyes sparkling even brighter.

"Yes, France, Italy, Switzerland, you should see them all."

I smiled, painting a picture of a luxurious trip they'd never dared to imagine.

"Oh my! This... how could we possibly accept!"

Mr. Davies feigned refusal, but his face was creased with smiles.

"It's my pleasure," I said sincerely. "To marry Serena is my good fortune, and to ensure her family lives well is my responsibility."

I spoke with such conviction, I almost believed myself.