Chapter 38
Should Serenity and Zachary find themselves unable to develop feelings for each other within six months, they would move forward with a friendly divorce. Zachary was prepared to transfer ownership of the house and national MPV to Serenity as part of the divorce settlement.
This was essentially the extent of what Serenity could expect from the divorce proceedings. Zachary made it clear that Serenity should not anticipate gaining access to Nana’s assets.
In addition to receiving the house and car after the separation, the overall terms were not particularly favorable for Serenity. Zachary had taken significant precautions to safeguard his wealth and personal integrity from any claims Serenity might make.
Zachary bluntly stated, “Serenity, while we may be married, it’s certainly not out of love. I believe we should formalize our agreement in writing. Don’t worry, anything not specified in the contract will remain unchanged.”
Essentially, this meant that Serenity should not develop romantic feelings for him, expect intimacy, or lay claim to Nana’s assets.
Surprisingly, Serenity felt no resentment. In fact, she completely understood his need to protect himself. She replied, “I have no intention of claiming Nana’s belongings. I am fully capable of taking care of myself and have no need to rely on anyone elderly.”
To Serenity, Nana was a retiree living modestly on a pension of about two to three thousand dollars a month. Even if Nana received some financial support from her family, her savings were likely limited. Serenity believed that Nana didn’t possess more than she herself did.
The idea of taking what rightfully belonged to someone else never occurred to Serenity.
The quick marriage to Zachary was meant to put an end to the ongoing conflicts between Liberty and Hank. It was also a way to reassure Liberty that Serenity was in good hands. Before obtaining the marriage license, Serenity had asked Zachary if he would like to split the expenses. Sharing the costs could significantly ease the tension between them.
Couples like Liberty and Hank have tied the knot out of love, while Serenity and Zachary find that dividing responsibilities suits them best.
Serenity took a moment to admire Zachary, scanning him from head to toe before offering a compliment. “Mr. York, it seems you’re truly blessed by God with that handsome face and impressive physique. Some may find your unapproachable demeanor captivating, while others might be tempted to win your heart.”
In response, Zachary’s eyes reflected a deep, unsettling gloom.
But Serenity quickly shifted her tone, her voice filled with cheer. “However, not everyone will be drawn to you. Don’t fret, I won’t fall for you, nor am I interested in anything intimate, Mr. York. I have nothing to add to your contract. Just hand me a pen so I can sign; I’ll leave my fingerprint as my seal since I don’t have a rubber stamp.”
Zachary had braced himself for a significant outburst when he drafted the contract, so he was surprised by Serenity’s reaction. Instead of being offended, she even praised him for making a wise choice. After a moment of silence, he handed her a pen.