Chapter 1448: Chapter 1451 Hidden Agendas

“Emma also runs her own clothing business,” Alana continued. “At the same time, she works as a corporate trainer, although her future in that role is uncertain. Finding a daughter–in–law like her is truly a blessing!”

“Based on what you’re saying,” Michelle hesitated. “Emma sounds remarkable. How did she end up with Albus?”

“Mrs. Stellar!” Sophia took over the conversation. “According to Albus, Emmeline’s parents were aware of our prosperity and the strong connection we share. They felt comfortable entrusting Emma to us and arranged the match.”

“I believe that,” Michelle said proudly. “Maxwell and Kimberly are honest people from Altney Steel. The Zellers know them very well.”

“Yes,” Alana said. “That’s why my mother–in–law wants to make this happy event happen quickly!”

“Alright!” Michelle clapped Alana’s hand and said, “Since Maxwell’s family has already visited, and considering your status as Abel’s wife, I will talk to Albus. We can discuss a suitable date for the engagement.”

“That would be great,” Alana said quickly. “Emma has made mistakes in the past, so I hope you can forgive her.”

Michelle nodded. “It’s all in the past. Adults shouldn’t hold grudges against children.”

Sophia and Alana exchanged glances and smiled at each other.

Unbeknownst to each other, the three women harbored their hidden agendas.

The following morning, Michelle and Albus arrived at Altney Steel Central Hospital bearing thoughtful gifts for Maxwell. Upon entering the hospital room, they found only Kimberly and a nurse present, as Abel and Emmeline had already returned to Altney.

Maxwell, still hooked up to intravenous fluids, managed a polite nod from his hospital bed upon seeing Michelle.

She couldn’t help but engage in small talk, exchanging pleasantries and shedding a few tears as she expressed her contemplations on the brevity and challenges of life.

After a few rounds of conversation, they discussed the topic of Emmeline and Albus‘ wedding.

Kimberly heard Michelle praising her daughter and couldn’t help but feel overjoyed, her heart filled with warmth.

“But there’s something…” Michelle stopped talking at a crucial moment.

“What is it?” Kimberly’s heart sank. “Michelle, please just say it.”

Michelle sighed and pretended to choke up, “Kimberly, you know, Allen was an honest and upright man, but he didn’t leave much behind for the children. Since his passing, I’ve been raising three kids without any significant savings. I–I’m afraid that if our two children decide to get engaged, I won’t be able to provide a decent gift.”

“What am I doing?” Kimberly said, “We’ve known each other for a long time, and our children getting married is a close relationship. I just want peace of mind, not money. Putting it this way, it feels like you’re underestimating our Louise family’s values.”

“If you interpret it that way, then I am truly grateful to you,” Michelle responded. “In the customs of Altney Steel now, when a daughter gets engaged, the groom’s family gives three gold rings and a motorcycle, along with eleven thousand dollars. I really can’t afford it. If you think it’s okay, I will make it up later. If you think Emma is at a disadvantage, let’s pretend I didn’t come today, and we can forget about this matter.”

After hearing this, Maxwell immediately turned his head in anger.

Kimberly hesitated for a moment and looked at his back. She said, “Although Emma is accustomed to being pampered, we are not solely driven by profit. The absence of an engagement gift is not a big deal.”

Michelle patted Kimberly’s hand and said, “That’s great. I knew you would understand it. You truly are a cultured person!”

After Michelle and Albus happily left, Maxwell angrily said, “You agreed to these conditions? We’re practically giving Emma away for free!”

“What are you doing?” Kimberly shouted, “Maxwell, are you trying to sell our daughter?”

He couldn’t catch his breath and coughed for a long time. He was afraid of upsetting her and causing her harm, so he kept his mouth shut.

A few days later, he was discharged from the hospital, and everyone finally calmed down.

In the morning, Abel left for the city to attend a forum for leading enterprises while Emmeline diligently prepared for her classes in his office.

Suddenly, Kimberly called and told Emmeline that the Zeller family wanted to invite her to eat pasta.

Emmeline couldn’t refuse Kimberly as she was afraid of triggering her illness, so she sent a message to Abel, telling him that she was going back to her home in Altney Steel.

Abel happened to be having lunch, so he agreed and told her to be careful and call him if there was anything.