Whether it was her tendency toward sentimentality or her tendency to overthink, Rosalind decided it was time to communicate her thoughts clearly.
When she broached the subject, Malcolm was momentarily taken aback.
“I don’t care about those things,” he responded firmly.
From the very first time Malcolm saw Rosalind, she left a deep impression on him. Coupled with his cousin’s constant praise of her, he became increasingly interested in this remarkable girl.
However, at the time, he had a steady girlfriend and didn’t dwell on it. But after the breakup, when his cousin suggested setting him up with Rosalind, he realized he was genuinely interested.
It wasn’t just Rosalind’s beauty that attracted him. It was her resilient spirit that made him want to protect her.
“But I do care,” she calmly stated. “I desire an equal partnership in marriage, but under the current circumstances, I would only be a burden to a family.”
“How could that be? Even if your mother has to undergo several more surgeries, the expenses would only amount to a few million! My family can easily afford it,” Malcolm’s tone grew urgent. “If that’s the only reason you’re pushing me away, then it’s completely unnecessary!”
Rosalind shook her head. “You don’t understand what I mean.”
“I do understand!” Malcolm’s urgency was rare on his face. “My parents don’t care about social status, and as for the surgery expenses, my family can offer it as part of the bride price in one go! It’s customary to provide a bride price when getting married.”
“Mr. Hines, besides money, can you tolerate my mother calling on you at any time? Even during your classes, meetings, or when you’re exhausted from working overtime for days without sleep, you must go immediately or face harsh scolding.”
“I can.”
“That’s because you haven’t experienced it.”
Rosalind knew her mother all too well.
Her mother wouldn’t easily let go of her daughter’s marriage.
The torment she had subjected Rosalind to over the years would be the same torment she would inflict on her son-in-law in the future.
“Rosa, I haven’t experienced it, but I want to try. Give me a chance,” Malcolm exhaled lightly. “Although I know it’s not the best time to say this, I’m serious about this. My parents also support me.”
“Don’t get involved in this mess.”
After speaking, Rosalind bowed slightly. “Mr. Hines, thank you for everything you’ve done. Please take your parents and leave.”
“…”
“Considering our relationship with Tilda, I’m sure you wouldn’t want things to be awkward between us in the future, right?”
After a long pause, Malcolm could only smile wryly and nod. “Alright, we’ll leave for now. But as I said before, if you need anything, don’t hesitate to come to me.”
Rosalind watched them depart, feeling a sudden prickle in her nose as tears threatened to fall.
She had to face her own reality.
If she couldn’t measure up to Malcolm, how could she ever measure up to Ulric?
It was merely wishful thinking.
…
Her mother’s surgery was a resounding success.
It came as no surprise, considering the doctor had been personally invited by Ulric and had laid a solid foundation for potential future surgeries.
“The patient needs ample rest. After returning home, ensure she avoids emotional stress to prevent complications related to her heart condition.”
“Okay, I understand. Thank you, doctor!”
Rosalind followed the mobile hospital bed back to the V1 ward and suddenly noticed the table overflowing with fresh fruits and expensive supplements!
She hadn’t seen Malcolm bring them earlier.
Approaching the table, she discovered a note next to the fruit basket, written by the vendor. Along with the ward address, it mentioned a contact person: Mr. Walters.