Chapter 2

My mom smiled warmly:

"It's also Chloe's good fortune to have met such a wonderful future mother-in-law like you."

My dad raised a glass to Brenda:

"It wasn't easy for you to raise Liam alone, dear in-law. As parents, all we want is for our children to be happy. For Chloe's dowry, we've prepared $70,000, showing our sincere commitment as well."

Liam and his mom exchanged a glance, sharing a knowing smile.

But now, looking at their smiles, I couldn't shake the feeling that something was off.

Brenda spoke again:

"We hope to move forward with the wedding as soon as possible. They're not getting any younger. How about the sixteenth of next month? I consulted a psychic, and it's a very auspicious day."

Liam and I had been together for a year. I thought I knew everything there was to know about him.

However, all I knew was what he told me; I hadn't actually verified anything.

Though the timing was a bit rushed, my parents discussed it briefly and readily agreed.

"Then it's settled," Brenda said, beaming.

The dinner table was filled with laughter, but I sat quietly, head bowed, my mind a tangled mess.

Liam took my hand and squeezed it gently in his palm:

"honey, what's wrong today? You seem distracted. Are you feeling unwell?"

"Oh, uh, no, it's just… it's so sudden."

Liam smiled triumphantly:

"honey, we're about to become a real family! I'm so happy and blessed."

Until I could unravel the doubts in my heart, I didn't want to rush into marriage.

Looking at Liam's expectant eyes, I still gathered my courage, stood up resolutely, and said:

"I'd like to postpone the wedding for now."

Liam's brows furrowed slightly. His mom's smile instantly vanished, and she quickly said:

"Chloe, is there something we've done wrong? Today was meant to discuss your wedding. If there's an issue, just tell us. We'll do our best to accommodate you."

Liam pulled me back down, patting my hand to reassure me:

"honey, do you have any worries or concerns? Tell me, and we'll face them and solve them together."

With words like that, anyone halfway sensible wouldn't refuse, right?

My parents also looked at me, puzzled.

After all, I often told them how wonderful Liam was to me, and I'd even planned out our life after marriage.

My mom often teased me, saying I was so eager to get married she was afraid I'd forget my parents once I had a husband.

All eyes were on me.

I felt like I was on pins and needles.

Canceling a wedding just because of a diary—it seemed absurd.

But what if it was true?

I hid my pregnancy news and said softly:

"I… Brenda, Dad, Mom, I'm sorry, I'm just not ready yet. Could you give me a little more time?"