Chapter 68
Valerie was baffled. She was certain she had given Matthew a fake ring, a cheap two–for–one deal that had only cost her 20 dollars, gift box included.
Before Valerie could piece together the unfolding events, Matthew gently took her hand, showing her the ring on his own right hand–the very one she had given him,
Valerie was completely taken aback. She murmured inwardly. ‘If the fake ring is here, could the one in the box be real? When did he buy it? And why didn’t he tell me anything about it? She looked at Matthew, puzzled. Holding his hand felt like a burning sensation, making her heartbeat accelerate.
As Matthew brought the two fake rings together, he clarified to Julian, “Each of us has a fake ring, while the real one has been securely stored all along.”
Julian, who had been doubtful before, now felt a wave of relief upon seeing the genuine ring.
Seeing Matthew holding hands with Valerie, Julian let out a sigh. He felt that Matthew, with his cold demeanor, was unlikely to be affectionate. However, it pained him to think that his sweet sister was paired with such a reticent man..
Fortunately, despite his cool exterior, Matthew seemed to treat Valerie quite well. He then turned to Ashley and remarked. “You were right. A proposal ring carries deep significance. It would indeed be tragic to lose it. Seems like getting a fake was a smart move, don’t you think, Ashley?”
Ashley was visibly frustrated. She had aimed to make Valerie look foolish but found herself outmaneuvered. With a sheepish grin, she placed the diamond ring back into its box and nodded, “Yes, you’re right.”
A flicker of annoyance crossed Ashley’s face as she glanced at the clock, noticing it was 12 o clock. Her eyes sparkled with mischief.
Valerie, meanwhile, paid little attention to Ashley’s strange antics, too caught up in her own thoughts.
Matthew’s unexpected revelation about the ring had taken her by surprise. While Julian and Ashley were engrossed in their meal, she leaned closer to Manhew and whispered, “When did you get the real ringt Did you expect this to come out?”
Matthew’s response, delivered in a hushed, resonant tone, amused her. I’ve always inade it clear–1 don’t use fakes,” he said, his voice deep and compelling.
Valerie was both amused and bewildered by his admission. She remembered the day she handed him the ring, now realizing why he had seemed so perturbed. He must have been upset and quietly bought a replacement. She couldn’t help but think his calm composure was fascinating. Without his steady presence, she doubted she could have managed today’s events.
“Mr. Grant, how much did the ring set you back? They must have been expensive. I should help with the cost,” she said, her voice faltering slightly as guilt washed over her. Although she had never purchased a diamond ring, she knew the price was steep. She felt compelled to contribute, especially since he was only helping her deal with her family.
She wondered about the cost, thinking she might need to work extra hard for the next few months to afford her share.
Matthew raised an eyebrow, amused by her offer. I can certainly afford a diamond ring for my wife,” he said with a chuckle.
Valerie paused, then smiled sofily.
“What’s so funny?” Matthew inquired.
“It’s just that sometimes, Mr. Grant, you’re incredibly stubborn about the oddest things. Valerie laughed softly. He had a strong will and a decisive manner. Once he made a decision, it was final. He hadn’t even consulted her before buying the ring-
Despite his assertiveness, he was not overbearing or controlling. He treated her with respect.
At that moment, Valerie felt profoundly grateful to be married to someone to understanding.
D