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 eyes

a rock and never

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 you unfairly. Whatever is owed to you, you'll get—maybe

things to

Whatever amount, as long as it's reasonable, I'll pay. But marry River? No way! We're not even dating.

Lafond chimed in, "Miss Hunt, Mr. York, 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. A forced marriage won't end well—it'll only

nodded in

Old Mr. Lafond remained silent, his eyes shifting between his granddaughter and

this. Could it be that after years of bickering, River