My father raised a glass to Katie.
"It's not easy for you to raise Felix by yourself. As parents, we all hope for our children to live happily. We've prepared 50,000 dollars as a dowry, also as a sincere gesture."
Felix and Katie exchanged a glance and shared a knowing smile.
But as I looked at their smiles, I couldn't shake off a feeling of something being off.
Katie said again.
"We hope to set the wedding date soon. They're not getting any younger, so how about we set it for the 16th of next month? I consulted a fortune teller, and it's an auspicious day."
I had been dating Felix for a year, and I thought I knew everything about him.
However, all I knew about him was what he had told me; I had never verified it.
Although the timing was a bit rushed, after a brief discussion with my parents, they readily agreed.
"Then it's settled," said Katie, beaming with joy.
Laughter filled the room, but I remained silent, my head bowed, feeling conflicted.
Felix took my hand and squeezed it gently.
"Baby, what's wrong with you today? You seem distracted. Are you feeling unwell?"
"Oh, no, it's nothing. It's just... so sudden."
Felix looked pleased.