Lois took the bank card from Benedict, holding it tightly in her hand, her tone barely masking her distaste.
"When Giselle's baby is born, there'll be no end to places you'll need to spend money. Why waste so much on her now?"
"She's just an orphaned girl saddled with an old grandmother. Marrying you is already the best thing that's ever happened to her."
Benedict's eyes darkened; he didn't say a word, just stared at Lois in silence.
Lois pressed her lips together, embarrassed, and slipped the card into her pocket, her response half-hearted and begrudging.
"Fine, fine, whatever you say. I'll call her this afternoon and take her shopping."
After signing the contract with Mr. Fletcher from Novalith Technologies, Cynthia joined him for lunch. He had other appointments that afternoon, so Cynthia headed back to her apartment.
She was about to message Assistant Shaw for an update on the contract regarding the sale of her shares in VistaSphere Group when Lois's number flashed on her phone.
Ever since Benedict had sent Lois back to the countryside, Lois had blamed Cynthia for it.
Over the years, whether it was holidays or birthdays, Cynthia's messages had always gone unanswered. Even when Cynthia and Benedict first got engaged, Lois simply told her she'd show up for the wedding and left them to arrange everything else.
Someone who never replied to her was now calling out of the blue. That was certainly a surprise.
Cynthia answered, her voice polite and poised.
"Hello, Lois."
Lois clearly disliked the formality, her voice laced with false warmth.
"You and Benedict are about to get married. Isn't it time you started calling me 'Mom'?"
Cynthia replied evenly, "The wedding hasn't happened yet, and you haven't given me the traditional gift for changing how I address you. For now, I'll keep calling you Lois."
After seeing the prices, Lois felt faint.
"Cynthia, you and Benedict will be planning for a family soon. Gold prices are sky-high right now. Why not just get something small and save the rest for later?"
Cynthia replied smoothly, "All of this is for the wedding day—everyone will see it. Benedict cares about appearances. If we buy too little, or choose something skimpy, won't that embarrass him?"
Lois was at a loss for words and shot a disgruntled look at the store clerk.
Catching on that Lois would be the one paying, the clerk quickly put on a smile.
"We also have gold-plated pieces that look just like solid gold—no one can tell the difference. They're perfect for show and much more affordable."
Lois nodded eagerly, "Yes, yes, that's much better."
"I'll get some out for you both to look at right away," the clerk said, hurrying off.

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