My eyes swept over their relatives.
I said flatly, "Oh? Because raising a son is hard, the daughter-in-law should repay? What kind of logic is that?
"Maybe customs differ. Where I'm from, we call that a maid.
"Marriage isn't about hiring help. Housework isn't just for women."
I turned to Erasmo.
I said seriously, "If this is your family's attitude, maybe we shouldn't get engaged."
Erasmo tugged at my sleeve.
He whispered, "Madeline, don't take it to heart. They're country folk with old-fashioned ideas. Don't stoop to their level."
I'd put up with his family for our seven-year relationship. But my patience only made them more arrogant.
"Madeline, it's all family here at the engagement party today, so I'm just going to speak my mind," Emma said.
She glared at me, full of herself.
"Since you're already pregnant, let's keep the ceremony simple.
"The bride price is just a formality anyway since it's all coming back to us. So, why bother with it? It's such a hassle.
"As for the house, sell your place and buy a bigger one. We'll be moving in with you, so I can help take care of the baby."
She said it all so righteously, unwilling to give me anything.