Graham said, looking at Maisie, "Do you understand what I just said?"
Maisie smiled, indicating she understood.
This would mean they would have an independent marriage, not interfering with each other's lives, sharing living expenses, and offering help in family emergencies if desired, or not if they chose not to.
However, the Bayers were a prestigious family and were unlikely to face such emergencies. Meanwhile, Maisie was from a less notable background and seemed to be the one with endless troubles.
She asked, "Graham, are you considering a prenup with me?"
"How did you guess?" His eyes brightened. "You've grasped my point, Maisie! I'm pleased."
Her surprise was evident. She had only been testing him, not expecting a definite answer.
"Prenups are necessary," he affirmed. "Many young people overseas do this before marriage. I've spent enough time abroad to embrace the concept, and I agree with it. It's better to clarify everything before marriage. Even if we were to divorce in the future, it would be straightforward. Otherwise, it'd be a waste of time and energy, detrimental for both parties."
Maisie was taken aback. "You've thought about divorce?"
He chuckled. "I believe in being prepared. Of course, no one aims for divorce when they marry, but it's wise to be ready."
He added, "I'm someone who values backup plans."
Maisie mustered a smile. The notion sounded reasonable—independence in marriage, financial boundaries, but...
If they couldn't support each other, not stand by in times of need, if they ended up splitting the cost of a bowl of salad, what was the point of such a marriage?
It wasn't about wanting his money—she hadn't dated him for his family's wealth. She had envisioned a life with him from the start, but now, it seemed she might have chosen the wrong person.
She shook off the thought.
"I understand now," she assured him. "I won't bring up my brother-in-law's matter again. I'll..."
"You can't carry the burden alone!" Graham reassured her. "This is their issue. They need to resolve it themselves. If they can't, they'll face the consequences!"
"Graham! That's my sister!"
"Sisters can't stay together forever, can they?" Graham thought she was being unreasonable. "You can't solve all her problems."
"But don't you provide everything your sister asks for? She doesn't want to work. All she does is draw, and you invested in an animation company for her!"
"My sister is different from yours," Graham remarked.
Maisie stood there, shocked, and asked, "How are they different?"
Realizing his mistake, Graham quickly grabbed her hand. "That's not what I meant! I—"
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