Chapter 21
Chapter 21
Zachary observed as Serenity skillfully selected flowers and negotiated with the florist. She managed to reduce the price from fifty dollars for a potted plant to half that amount. It was impressive how she made it seem like the florist would never find a better deal than what she was offering. This display was certainly captivating.
Zachary, who typically didn’t pay much attention to price tags or engage in bargaining while shopping, found himself in awe of his wife’s abilities. The florist, unfortunately for him, was on the receiving end of Serenity’s strong negotiating skills, and the expression on the florist’s face was priceless.
After completing the purchase, Serenity started carrying the flowerpots one at a time to Zachary’s car. Initially, Zachary stood by the vehicle, watching her, but soon realized it was inappropriate to just stand there while she did the heavy lifting alone. He quickly joined in to help her transport the flowers until the car was packed to the brim.
Fortunately, the florist provided some flattened cardboard to protect the seats, which was much better than risking stains on the upholstery.
“Do you need anything else?” Zachary inquired as he settled into the driver’s seat.
“The car is too full for anything else. That’s all for today. It won’t take just a day or two to furnish our place. I plan to take my time gathering items and decorating our home,” Serenity replied.
As Serenity buckled her seatbelt, she pulled out her phone to check the time. “Let’s head back. I need to visit my sister later,” she added.
Zachary quietly started the car, ready to drive.
“Mr. York,” Serenity said, breaking the silence.
“Yes?” he responded.
“Nana and your parents are coming to visit this weekend. Would it be alright if I invited my sister and her husband to join us for dinner? My sister’s family is all I have. Even though we didn’t marry for love, it’s important for us to meet each other’s families,” she explained.
After all, it would be awkward if their families happened to cross paths on the street without knowing each other.
Serenity had grandparents,
aunts and uncles residing in the countryside, who were not particularly fond of Serenity and Liberty simply because they were girls. Following the tragic car accident that claimed the lives of Serenity’s parents, none of their relatives stepped forward to offer the sisters a home. Ironically, these same family members were quick to accept their share of the parents’ life insurance policy.
The house that Serenity’s parents had left behind was now occupied by her grandparents. Serenity chose not to return to her parents’ home, feeling no familial connection to her grandparents.
Despite their refusal to take the girls in after their parents’ death, the grandparents had the audacity to demand financial support when Liberty got married. The sisters confronted their grandparents about this hypocrisy, and Liberty firmly stood her ground, preventing her husband from giving in to their demands just to make the issue go away.
Ultimately, the grandparents stormed off in anger, leaving empty-handed, and they chose not to attend Liberty’s wedding. To Serenity, Liberty had become both parent and guardian.
Meanwhile, Zachary did not hesitate and replied quietly, “Yes, of course. Please let your sister know to meet my family here on Saturday p>
“Sure,” Serenity responded.
Before long, they found themselves back at Brynfield. With the car parked downstairs, Serenity decided to put her strength to use, moving the potted plants upstairs while Zachary enlisted the help of the neighborhood security guards. He offered them a lump sum to assist in transporting the plants.
There was no need to exert themselves when money could resolve the issue.
Although Serenity thought Zachary might be a bit careless with his finances, she felt it wasn’t her place to comment since they were still unfamiliar with each other. In a way, she viewed his actions as a kindness, attempting to lighten her load. The expense seemed somewhat justifiable in her mind.
Soon, one corner of the balcony was filled with the vibrant potted plants.
Zachary escorted the security guards to the door while Serenity focused on envisioning her design for the balcony. The balcony was expansive, and despite having purchased a trunk filled with plants, they only managed to fill a small corner. She hadn’t set up the flower stands yet, and time was slipping away. It was clear she would need to tackle that task after leaving work early later that day.
“What’s bothering you?” Zachary inquired.
“The balcony feels too large. I can’t quite picture what I want it to look like,” Serenity admitted.
Zachary scanned the area, acknowledging her concern. “What kind of visuals are you aiming for? Are you picturing a mini garden p>
Serenity nodded in agreement.
“Are you heading to your sister’s place now? You should probably go. I’ll swing by the florist and pick up some more flowers,” Zachary suggested.
Serenity checked the time and replied, “What time does your shift start? I can leave for work a bit later if needed p>