Love at First Novel by Gu Lingfei

Romina was still convinced River had done it on purpose.

River fired back, "You think you're a weak woman? When you're drunk, you're a beast. If you don't believe me, go call Maddox. He saw the whole thing-watched you come after me without lifting a finger."

Romina had no response.

She turned to her family, searching their faces for some sign of support.

"Romina..." Donovan sighed. "River's telling the truth. He brought you home last night, just like this. Maddox called me, I questioned him, and he confirmed it-you went after River."

squeezed her

wanted to crawl under a rock and never

have to drink so much last night? And if she had to get drunk, why couldn't she have just let Maddox take her home? Why did she go after River? Now, she was in so deep even the Yellow River couldn't wash her clean. Several minutes passed before she finally opened her eyes, stared at River, and asked, "What do you want?" Serenity cleared her throat and stepped in. "Romina, River has always kept himself clean- no scandals, a good reputation. Last night, you crossed a line. Everyone knows. You ruined his name. So we came here today with a little gift, something we put together quickly. River says it's a betrothal gift. You took advantage of him, so now he wants you to take responsibility. "Don't worry this is just symbolic. If the marriage is agreed upon, I'll call home and have our family send over a proper bride price. The York family won't treat

thinking straight. I can clarify things to the public, issue a public apology, and I'll

Whatever amount, as long as it's reasonable, I'll pay. But marry River? No way! We're not even dating. There's no love between us. How can you expect us

Romina was clearly in the wrong. We're willing to apologize and offer compensation. But a marriage between two people with no feelings? That's not right.

nodded

Lafond remained silent, his eyes

being petty, but there was something more to this. Could it be that