The Bound Between Us

Chapter 245

Melinda’s parents were worried that she wouldn’t be able to cough up with the money due to the pressure. So, Melinda’s mom started trying to guilt-trip

her.

“Melinda, we didn’t mean it that way. We all know you’ve busted your hump for this family. Your brother finally got himself a girlfriend, and her parents have steady jobs. It’s an improvement for our family. We can’t let him feeling embarrassed.” Melinda’s mom sobbed, “Once your brother settles down, you’ll have someone to lean on. We’re thinking about you too.”

Melinda wiped away tears, her head held high, trying to hold back her emotions. She didn’t say anything. Her dad came back on the line, saying, “You’ve got three days to come up with a hundred grand. If your brother’s wedding falls through, don’t bother coming home.”

Melinda couldn’t take it anymore and hung up the phone. She was the black sheep of the family, the one who made her parents and brother feel embarrassed. Her sacrifices had turned into a joke.

!

Meanwhile, Maria and Jay exchanged glances. Jay asked, “Did she hung up?”

Maria said, “Yep, she did.”

“She’s on her own now.” Jay said angrily, “Call her back and tell her to get the money ASAP!” Published by Nôv'elD/rama.Org.

“You were too harsh, Jay. No wonder Melinda’s upset.” Maria remarked, “I’ll go and comfort her in a bit.”

Just then, Melinda’s brother returned from outside and asked, “Mom, dad, is the wedding gift money ready? Lily’s family is rushing us.”

Seeing her son return, Maria smiled and said, “Hold your horses. I’ve called your sister; she’ll gather the money soon. Are you hungry? I can make something to eat.”

“I won’t be eating at home; I have a dinner date with Lily. I came back just to let you guys know to get the wedding gift money sorted. Lily’s parents are giving us a BMW as a wedding present. It’ll be great for my career too.” Melinda’s brother said.

“Really? Lily’s family is so generous. Don’t worry, we’ll get the wedding gift money sorted. Maria was delighted, “Now off you go, don’t keep Lily waiting. You need to treat her well. Don’t upset her.”

“She’s a real diva. If she wasn’t the only child and her family wasn’t giving us a BMW, I wouldn’t even look twice at her. Her parents. have spoiled her.”

Melinda’s brother said.

Maria laughed, “Just bear with it. Once Lily is part of our family, I’ll teach her a few things.”

“Okay, guys, I’m off. Oh, and don’t mention my wedding to Melinda. If Lily’s parents find out about her job, I’ll die of embarrassment.” Melinda’s brother said.

Jay wore a loving expression and said, “Don’t worry, we didn’t invite her back. You go keep Lily company. Don’t worry about us.”

As soon as their son left, Jay urged Maria to call Melinda again to sort out the money.

Melinda was listening to her phone ringing non-stop, it was driving her up the wall. The ringtone sounded like an omen, leaving her on edge. Her roommate knocked from outside the door, “Melinda, why is your phone constantly ringing?”

“It’s nothing.” Melinda couldn’t take it anymore and muted her phone, finally getting some peace and quiet. She didn’t dare turn it off, in case she missed an important call from a client or her boss.

In adult life, there was no such thing as total freedom. Even if she wanted to relax for a while, she had to consider the potential consequences.

Her roommate didn’t think much of it, just said, “I’ve got to go to work.”

As the roommate was about to leave, Melinda opened the door, “Could you have dinner with me tonight, it’s my birthday.”

“Melinda, happy birthday. But I can’t skip my work hours. How about this? I’ll return early, and we can have a late-night snack to celebrate your birthday. I’ll also bring a gift. Is that okay?”

“Alright.” Melinda said.

“I’ve got to go, Melinda. Remember to cheer up, it’s your birthday. I’ll bring you a present when I come back.” Her roommate said.

After watching her roommate leave, Melinda returned to her room, feeling like a soulless shell. Her phone lit up once more; it was her boss calling. She couldn’t afford to ignore it.

After picking up, her response was still slow, her voice monotone as if she was a robot, “Hello, okay, I’ll be there right away.”