Chapter 77
Given Zachary’s tendency towards germaphobia, the sight of the kid’s grimy hands on his new toy was quite unsettling for him.
This discomfort is precisely why he generously decided to part with the new toy.
Once the two little ones got past their fussing, the previously tense atmosphere among the adults began to ease.
Though Zachary kept silent, the Browns could clearly read the warning in his eyes and demeanor, signaling them to tread carefully around him.
Brown had already formed a negative opinion of Serenity, but it was evident that her partner meant business as well.
Being aware of Liberty’s connection to Serenity and the actions of her son, Brown felt compelled to caution her son against pushing any boundaries.
Even though Liberty had chosen an unpaid role as a stay-at-home mom, she had given the Browns their first grandson, which surely held some weight.
Hank soon returned home.
After a brief moment of relaxation on the couch, Liberty called everyone to the dining table, announcing that dinner was served.
Serenity accompanied her sister to the kitchen to help bring out the food.
While there, Serenity noticed a variety of seafood dishes.
She leaned in and whispered, “Liberty, Zachary and I can settle for your usual home-cooked meals. You really didn’t have to go all out with seafood.”
Liberty responded, “Your brother-in-law insisted on a lot of options. You know how Chelsea’s family adores seafood, but it’s too pricey for them to have at home.”
“Ironically, they expect a lavish seafood spread whenever they visit, and I mean the high-end stuff. My mother-in-law has the same expectations when it comes to beef.”
“Why should I pay for their meals? I didn’t splurge on the good ingredients for lunch; I saved everything for tonight’s dinner. I want you and Zachary to enjoy a lovely meal.” Liberty had only prepared a simple pot of pasta for her in-laws earlier that day, not letting the disdainful looks she received affect her mood.
It was a
The dinner was enjoyable for everyone involved. After the meal, Zachary lingered for a bit before deciding to leave, accompanied by his wife, Serenity. Once the couple departed, Liberty began to tidy up the dishes from her side of the family in the kitchen.
Meanwhile, Hank had plans to serve dessert to his parents and sister. He went to the fridge for a watermelon but was immediately struck by the clutter left in the dining area. Raising his voice, he called out, “Liberty, why haven’t you cleared the table? Come out here and clean up!” Instead of abandoning her work, Serenity responded from the kitchen, “You mentioned we’d go halves on everything. The groceries today balance out the money I spent on the clothes. We’re even on that front.”
“But we should contribute equally to keep things fair,” Hank countered. “I’ve taken care of my plates and those of Serenity and her husband. The rest is on you and your family. Honestly, I don’t mind if you don’t clean it up, but you’ll have to use the same plate again tomorrow if you don’t.”
The Browns turned their attention to Hank, as Brown and Chelsea had previously suggested he split expenses with Liberty, who seemed to be draining his finances. The women in Hank’s family were concerned about the strain on his wallet. Now that Hank and Liberty were trying to share costs, Liberty anticipated the same division of household responsibilities.
Frustrated, Hank seized a fruit knife and stormed into the kitchen, but his mother quickly intervened and held him back.
