Chapter 119
Chapter 119
“Hank, are you really suggesting that we go Dutch when my sister doesn’t even have a job? She’s at home raising your child, and yet you think it’s fair to split costs with her. What’s the point of her being married to you p>
“You often claim my sister does nothing around the house, so today she decided to live up to that expectation and do nothing. Oh, but wait… she still managed to do half the work! She bought the ingredients, measured out the pasta, and even prepared a pot of water for you. All you have to do is cook it yourself p>
Hank tried to respond, but Serenity cut him off. “Hank, do you honestly believe your house takes care of itself every single day? Sonny is still very young, and when he plays with his toys, he leaves them scattered all over the floor—he can’t clean up after himself p>
“Do you think those toys magically put themselves away? And who do you think is responsible for your meals every day? Isn’t my sister the one doing your dirty laundry as well p>
“Didn’t my sister prepare three meals a day for you p>
“You only hold resentment toward her because she doesn’t have a job or an income. If it weren’t for her managing the household so well, would you even be able to focus on your work p>
“This home belongs to both of you. My sister handles the household while you bring in the income. You can’t say she doesn’t contribute just because she isn’t employed outside the home. In reality, my sister’s responsibilities are far more challenging. Why don’t you and my sister switch roles for a day? You could handle the laundry, cooking, taking care of the baby, and cleaning the house while she goes out to work p>
Before their marriage, Liberty’s income was not significantly lower than Hank’s.
Hank opened his mouth several times, but Serenity’s arguments left him speechless. After a moment, he finally spoke up, albeit sheepishly, “Serenity, I p>
You only spoke a single sentence, yet your response felt like a lengthy lecture as if I had done something terrible to your sister. Aren’t you busy managing your store? If business isn’t going well and you’re not making much profit, perhaps it would be better to close it down and find a job working for someone else.
“Isn’t Zachary employed at a large company? You could ask him to help you get a position there. Earning a few thousand dollars a month is surely better than struggling to keep your business afloat,” came the suggestion.
Serenity replied coolly, “You really don’t need to concern yourself with my finances. I earn enough to cover my expenses and have a little left over p>
“I–I’m going to cook now,” Hank stammered, sensing his sister-in-law’s anger and opting not to engage further. He turned and retreated to the kitchen.
Taking a moment to breathe deeply, Serenity knew she had to endure Hank for now since Liberty wasn’t ready to file for divorce just yet. If he dared to speak ill of her sister again, once Liberty found a job and prepared for their separation, Serenity would not hesitate to confront him.
She entered Liberty’s room and found her sitting on the edge of the bed, gently caressing Sonny. Serenity understood that Liberty was tolerating the situation primarily for the sake of her child. When Liberty noticed the door opening, she turned to see Serenity and stood up to approach her. “Serenity, your brother-in-law won’t heed your words. Please don’t worry about me. I’ll take care of myself until I decide to move on from him. Aren’t you going to buy a gift for Zachary? You should head out now. I promise, I’m fine p>
“Alright, I’ll go shopping now. Just call me if you need anything. And if he ever lays a hand on you, I will not stand by and let anyone hurt my sister!” Serenity asserted firmly.
Liberty nodded in response. She had put up with so much in the past because of her love for Hank, but at this moment, her feelings had shifted to disappointment. She was enduring the situation for Sonny’s sake, feeling powerless to change her circumstances at this time.
Custody was a pressing concern for Serenity, but she felt a sense of relief knowing that Hank would no longer be able to threaten her once she got back on her feet. With encouragement from Liberty, Serenity decided it was time to leave.
As Serenity was about to walk out, Hank emerged from the kitchen, having just finished cooking a dish. He asked her in a casual tone, “Serenity, have you eaten p>
“Yeah,” she replied nonchalantly before stepping out the door.
Hank had only prepared one dish, as he hadn’t cooked all the meals that Liberty made. He took a forkful of his vegetables, tasted it, and immediately spat it out, clearly dissatisfied with his culinary attempt.