My mom was shaking with anger, and my dad was turning livid. I quickly tried to calm them down.
I glanced at Erasmo, who was sitting there with his head down like a scared quail.
I understood right away.
Turning to Emma, I said, "If that's the case, then let's forget about the dowry too. It's just a formality. My family won't provide one."
As soon as Emma heard that, she exploded.
She said, "No way! The dowry has to be substantial. At least 300 thousand dollars plus a car."
I gave a cold laugh. What a double standard!
I said, "Marriage is just a formality, right? After the wedding, I'll go back to my parents' place. No need to buy a house.
"And the child's surname is just a formality too, so the baby can have my last name.
"Or maybe your son should marry into my family. After all, it's just a formality."
Erasmo finally stepped in to smooth things over.
He said, "Alright, alright. My mom was just joking."
Emma wanted to say more, but Erasmo pulled her aside. They whispered for a long time, and then she came back with a forced smile.
My parents looked at me, worried. I patted my mom's hand to reassure her.
They thought I was weak.
They thought they could treat me like a pushover.