Chapter 5: Demands and Desperation

Early the next morning, I headed back to her house.

Frost crunched under my boots as I climbed the steps, determination fighting with dread. $95,000? I could manage that, eventually. But buying her brother a condo? That was a step too far.

I knew Savannah had been shaped by her family’s expectations for years. Their favoritism toward her brother was obvious, but she didn’t even seem to notice. Still, I believed I could give her a real family—one built on kindness, not money.

They were eating breakfast when I walked in. The kitchen smelled like eggs and bacon, but the tension was thick. Her father didn’t even look up.

"Mr. Whitaker, about yesterday—my family discussed it."

He grunted. "Oh."

“It’s just… $125,000 is a lot to come up with at once.”

He sneered, “Don’t play poor. I know exactly what you have.”

I bit back my anger. “How about this: I can borrow for the dinners, wedding bands, and gifts, and pull it together in a few days. But the dowry, I just don’t have right now…”

Her brother cut in, voice sharp, “No money and you still want to marry my sister? Don’t you feel ashamed?”

Her father shouted, “Are you here to insult me this early? Get out.”

“I’m not refusing. I just need to pay in installments. We can sign a contract—five years, $19,000 a year. I’ve only got $800 left right now.”

Her father’s expression softened, just a little. “Fine. Add $7,000 in interest. And about your brother-in-law…”

“I can’t buy him a condo,” I said flatly. “We’re getting married, not buying people. Savannah and I will visit, but he’s healthy—he can take care of himself.”

Her brother jumped up, face red. “Who are you calling useless?”

Her father swept the bourbon and sneakers I’d brought onto the floor. “Then get out.”

The gifts scattered across the kitchen linoleum. My anger finally boiled over. “I’ve done everything I can. Looks like you never wanted this marriage anyway.”

Her father’s face twisted. “You want to call it off?”

“I’ve shown plenty of sincerity, but your demands are too much. Anyone would be upset.”

Her brother shoved me hard. I stumbled, barely catching myself, ready to fight back when Savannah rushed over and pulled me away.

“Why does your family keep pushing me?” I asked, my voice raw.

She whispered, “Please, just go.”

It felt like lightning had struck me. Was this really the Savannah I loved?

My phone rang. My mother’s voice was frantic. “Come back quick! Your dad’s in the hospital…”