Probably because of Michael, I was firm with my stance this round. In an instant, my parents’ faces turned grim. Even though they were gazing at me with an unmissable sense of guilt in their eyes, I could foresee that they would not easily change their minds.
“Let me put it this way. As long as you are willing to cut ties with that man, we won’t be bothered no matter where you intend to go for your career advancement in the future. After we receive this one million, you don’t have to transfer us money again. By then, your burden will be eased as well. It’s a win-win situation for us, isn’t it?” My dad voiced his opinions and negotiated with me in a way. All this while, he was the core decision-maker at home as the patriarchy concept was deeply ingrained in our family.
“I won’t leave him, so you won’t be able to get that one million as well.” I took a firm stand by emphasizing my decision. I had made up my mind to turn a deaf ear to them this round and would not give in to them no matter what. They could only blame themselves for letting me down.
“Anna, you are really adamant! Since Dad and Mom have made themselves clear, why are you still so persistent? What’s the point to continue staying by his side? Will he give you one million because of that? Fine then, if you insist, get him to give us one million first. By then, I’m sure Dad and Mom won’t force you again.”
I had had enough bickering with Dad and Mom, and now Steven was adding oil to the fire. All of them were forcing me to leave Michael!
“Is money all that you care about—that you would rather sacrifice everything else just for the sake of money?” I scoffed.
They are all the same. Their minds are preoccupied with one million, and they never spare any thoughts for me! At that very moment, I felt dejected like a deflated balloon.
“Money is the most important thing in the world! Tell me—what can one do without money? Do you think you can survive without a single penny?” My mom refuted in great displeasure, and my heart fell upon hearing her words.
Undeniably, we can’t survive without money. Even so, money can’t buy everything in this world. Don’t they know that there’s a price to pay for everything? If they get that one million but ruin my future, won’t they feel guilty about it?
“I can work hard to earn that money. As long as I maintain my good work performance in Joyful Success, I foresee that I can earn one million within a few years.” I retorted.
Even though one million was a large sum, as long as I had good career growth, I was sure it was a gainable sum within just a few years.
I refused to leave Michael mainly because I did not wish to end my relationship with him. Apart from that, I could not let go of my current job.
“Hmph! By the time you manage to earn one million, we might’ve already starved to death! Anna, do you even hear yourself!” Steven mocked with narrowed eyes. He had apparently lost his patience in me.
“No matter what, I won’t give in this round!” I lashed out at them and stood up at once. Deep down, I knew that they would not consider my words, what’s more, to change their minds. Thus, there was no point for me to waste time arguing with them. Without hesitation, I stormed out and slammed the door.
The moment I stepped out of my parents’ house, tears started to roll down my cheeks. Right that instant, it struck me that I was worthless in their eyes.
Taking a deep breath, I tried my best to hold back my tears. It’s not worth shedding my tears for them!
Since my family members were treating me inconsiderately all this while, I talked myself into behaving more selfishly for the rest of my lifetime. From now onwards, I will not be soft-heartened and give in to them again! Of course, I will continue to play my part well as a filial daughter, but I won’t force myself to do anything beyond my capability. On top of that, I will not sacrifice myself for anyone’s sake anymore.
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