At that moment, my mother-in-law stepped in, wiping away non-existent tears as she stopped me.
"Don't rush, Mark. We're so reluctant to part with Cindy..."
"Mom, I will take good care of her. I promise she will never be mistreated," I said, thinking she was just expressing her concern. I handed her two red envelopes and vowed my commitment.
"That's not what I meant," she said, shaking her head. "To show how much you value Cindy, I think the bride price should go up a little. How about this? One million dollars. If not, don't even think about taking my Cindy."
I looked at Cindy, but she remained silent, her gaze distant, as if she was indifferent to it all. Her silence spoke volumes—it was as though she had already accepted this arrangement.
The joyous, noisy atmosphere came to an abrupt halt. Even my mother-in-law seemed to realize how unreasonable her demand was, turning her back and saying, "Think it over and transfer the money when you're ready."
Looking at the silent Cindy, I grabbed her hand. "Cindy, say something."