Chapter 77

Chapter 77

“I really appreciate your effort, Matthew said. Valerie’s casual tone belied the effort she’d put in, but he knew better. Prepping all those ingredients must’ve meant an early start for her.

Valerie shrugged it off. “No sweat I’d be cooking for myself anyway” She reasoned that since Matthew footed the bill, the least she could do was handle the cooking

She appreciated Matthew’s purchase of high–quality food, perfect for her baby. It was a shame she couldn’t indulge in crab meat due to her pregnancy. Just a small taste of that king crab yesterday left her longing for more.

Valerie handed Matthew an umbrella along with the lunchbox. They’re saying it might rain today

“Thank you,” he replied.

After Matthew left, Valerie swapped the hamster’s bedding and fed at before a middle–aged woman who introduced herself as Mia Johnson from Tidy Titans Cleaning Co. arrived unexpectedly Valerie immediately called Matthew for clarification.

Matthew’s low, calm voice reassured her. I hired a housekeeper. You’ve been busy lately, so let her handle the chores”

Valerie hesitated, feeling a bit embarrassed. She thought Matthew had already gone through so much trouble meeting her family. Plus, he paid for all the groceries and even got that expensive ring. Her doing a few chores was nothing compared to all that.

Matthew casually interrupted her, “Didn’t you mention you’re applying for a position at Noria Group! You’ll need time to prepare. Just thank me properly once you get the job”

Valerie felt touched by his consideration. “Got it, Ell take y

your advice”

Mia, the housekeeper, jumped in, praising Valerie’s husband for being so considerate. She’d seen lots of guys who thought chores were just for

but not men. He was a rare gem! She assured Valerie she’d handle everything and told her to focus on work,

women.

Valerie filled Mia in on some cleaning tips, emphasizing Matthew’s room due to his neat freak tendencies. But then she paused, realizing it might seem odd for a couple to have separate bedrooms. She felt awkward about how to explain this to Mia.

Thankfully, Mia nodded knowingly. “Men snore like crazy. Separate rooms are a smart move. If we had a spare. I’d kick my man into it too. He’s quier during the day, but once he’s asleep, he’s like a chainsaw“:

Valerie couldn’t hold back her laughter, picturing Matthew’s serious demeanor. He always seemed so proper and gentlemanly. But now she couldn’t help but wonder if he snored too.

Julian called just now to say Aiden was doing great and full of energy at kindergarten. Valerie could relax now, no more worries weighing her down.

Valerie’s phone rang again right after she hung up. She assumed it was Julian again. “Hey, I was just gonna hit you back. You left Aiden’s toys behind yesterday. If you’re free tomorrow morning, swing by our office a bit later, and Fl hand them over.”

But halfway through, she was interrupted by a scomful, mocking voice. “Who needs your crappy toys anyway?

Valerie’s smile froze. She didn’t need to check the caller ID to know who it was. There was only one person who would greet her in such a way, with clear intentions to make her miserable.

“Mom” Valerie greeted flatly, but she was then met by Ruth’s snide taunting

“Wow, so you do remember I exist,” Buth said dryly. Thought you forgot about me altogether. Getting hitched without a word and keeping your paycheck to yourself. And now you’re insisting on marrying that broke guy, huh? Sorry to burst your bubble, but I absolutely must get that 100 thousand dollars, not a cent less!”