Chapter 9

a fun outing. Plus, it would save you time during those busy hours,” Zachary suggested, trying to highlight the benefits of having a car.

Serenity remained firm in her decision. “I appreciate your offer, but I prefer my bike. It’s reliable and keeps me active. Besides, I enjoy the ride, and it gives me a chance to clear my mind before the day starts.”

Zachary nodded, recognizing her determination. He admired her independence, yet he couldn’t shake the feeling that he wanted to support her more. “I just want to make sure you’re comfortable and not overloaded with expenses,” he replied, his voice softening again.

“I understand, and I truly appreciate your concern,” she said, her expression warmening. “But I manage my finances well. I’ve built this shop from the ground up, and I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished. It’s important for me to maintain that sense of independence.”

Zachary was taken aback by her confidence. It was refreshing to see someone so driven and self-sufficient. “I respect that,” he said thoughtfully. “Just know that you don’t have to do everything alone. We’re in this together.”

“Together,” Serenity echoed, a smile tugging at her lips. “Yes, together. But that doesn’t mean I won’t occasionally remind you that I’m perfectly capable of handling my own finances.”

Zachary chuckled softly, realizing that this exchange had only strengthened their bond. “Point taken,” he conceded. “Just promise me you’ll consider the car when the time is right.”

Serenity nodded, appreciating his persistence. “I promise to think about it. But for now, I’m happy with my bike,” she affirmed, feeling content in her choices.

As they continued their conversation, both felt a sense of understanding that would deepen their relationship, built on mutual respect and care.

was busy with her chores, Zachary reflected on Nana’s words. He recalled her mentioning that the woman lived with her sister and that the most important people in Serenity’s life were her sister and nephew.

“Maybe later,” Serenity replied thoughtfully. “We just got married, and we don’t know each other well enough yet. I’m not comfortable using your money to buy a car. I have some savings for that, but I think a house is a much better investment. A house means having a home, and besides, I’m not like you men who usually prefer cars.”

There seemed to be a noticeable difference in preferences between men and women; generally, women leaned towards choosing a house while men were more inclined to go for cars.

“Oh, by the way,” Serenity continued, “my sister wants to meet you. I told her you’re away on business for now, but I’ll make sure to take you to see her later.”

“Sure,” Zachary replied, acknowledging her request.

Once their conversation came to an end, Serenity went outside to hang the laundry while Zachary settled himself in the living room. He had intended to read the newspaper, but since he didn’t have a subscription delivered to their new home, he opted to check the news on his phone instead to pass the time.

“Have you done your laundry?” Serenity called out after finishing with her own.

“I got it covered,” he responded, knowing that his clothes were typically sent to the dry cleaners.

Serenity pursed her lips but chose not to press the issue further and continued with her tasks. She swept, mopped, and tidied up their newly shared space.

Zachary observed her as she moved around the house, performing what he considered maid duties. He felt a tug of concern and was tempted to speak up, but after some deliberation, he decided against it. In his own home, the maids took care of household chores, while in a typical family setting, it was often the wife’s responsibility to handle these tasks.

Fortunately, his butler had arranged for the maids to clean the house before they moved in, so everything was immaculate. Serenity swept through the rooms, not encountering a single trace of dust. Now that she was immersed in her work, Zachary couldn’t help but admire her diligence.

After finishing her daily tasks, Serenity headed back to her room to freshen up. With her handbag in hand, she stepped out and addressed the man sitting on the sofa, “Mr. York, I’m heading to my sister’s place and then to the shop. What time do you expect to be home? Feel free to leave me a message, and I’ll make sure the door is unlocked.”

“I’ll return every night unless I have business to attend to. I’ll inform you in advance if I need to be away,” he replied.

“Alright,” Serenity said in response.

“Se-Serenity, don’t forget to take the card,” he urged.

Zachary got up from his seat, approached Serenity, and handed her a bank card, apologizing in the process. “I should’ve been more considerate with my tone just now. I truly apologize!”

Serenity looked at him thoughtfully for a moment, and sensing his sincerity, she accepted the card. She tucked it, along with the paper containing the PIN, into her pocket.

“I really should be going,” she stated.

“Of course,” he responded.

Zachary watched as Serenity exited the room. Once the door closed behind her, he exhaled deeply, feeling a sense of relief.

It was clear he hadn’t quite mastered the role of a husband.

Returning to the sofa, Zachary picked up his phone from the coffee table and dialed the family butler. When Sam answered, he spoke in a hushed tone, “Sam, once the old Mrs. is awake, ask her to gather the family for dinner at Brynfield. The old Mrs. will know what this is regarding.”