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Novel Catalog
Chapter 77
Since Zachary was a bit of a germaphobe, the sight of the kid’s dirty hands on the new toy didn’t sit well with him. That’s why he had no qualms about generously giving it away. Once the two children stopped whining, the negative vibe in the room started to dissipate. Although Zachary didn’t say anything directly, the Browns got the clear message from his demeanor—not to rub him the wrong way. Mrs. Brown, who had already formed a negative impression of Serenity, now understood that her son-in-law meant business. She was well aware of Liberty’s relationship with Serenity and the things her son had done, so she felt it was important to warn Hank against pushing things too far.
Despite Liberty’s role as a stay-at-home mom, she had given the Browns their first grandson, which should’ve earned her some respect. As the evening wore on, Hank finally returned home. After a brief rest on the couch, Liberty called everyone to the dining table, signaling that dinner was ready. Serenity followed her sister into the kitchen to help bring the food out. While doing so, Serenity noticed a few seafood dishes. She leaned in and whispered to Liberty, “You didn’t have to get us seafood. Zachary and I are fine with just your everyday home-cooked meals.”
Liberty smiled and responded softly, “Your brother-in-law told me to get a lot. You know Chelsea’s family loves seafood, but they don’t get it at home because it’s expensive. Ironically, they expect a seafood feast every time they visit, and I’m talking about the fancy stuff. My mother-in-law is the same with beef.” She shrugged, “Why should I pay for their meals? I didn’t use the good stuff for lunch and kept it all for tonight’s dinner. I want you and Zachary to enjoy a nice meal.”
It was clear that Liberty had put thought into the dinner, and despite some tension earlier, it turned out to be a pleasant meal for everyone. Afterward, Zachary stayed a little longer before deciding to leave. As his wife, Serenity followed him out. With the couple gone, Liberty began clearing the table, preparing to wash the dishes in the kitchen.
Meanwhile, Hank, who had plans to serve dessert to his parents and sister, noticed the mess still left on the dining table. He stormed into the kitchen, holding a fruit knife, and raised his voice, “Liberty, why haven’t you cleared the table? Get out here and clean up this mess!” Instead of leaving the kitchen to address him, Serenity called out, “You said we’re going halves. The groceries today are in exchange for the money I spent on the clothes. We’re even on that front. But we should do our part around the house so it’s fair. I’ve already cleared Serenity and her husband’s plates, as well as my own. The rest is yours and your family’s. I don’t care if you clean it or not, but you’ll have to use the same plates tomorrow if you don’t.”
The tension was palpable as Mrs. Brown and Chelsea looked on, their eyes now on Hank. They had suggested that Hank go fifty-fifty with Liberty because they believed she was taking advantage of him. The women in Hank’s family felt that he was being stretched thin financially for his own sake. With the couple now sharing expenses, Liberty expected the same from him when it came to the housework. Hank, seething with anger, grabbed a fruit knife and marched toward the kitchen, but his mother quickly stepped in and held him back, preventing him from going any further.
