Chapter 344 I'm Getting Married (Part Five)

• "My mother wants us to return home early because there are some local wedding customs in our hometown. She believes that we should adhere to these customs, and they hope that we can follow the local traditions. Before the Chinese New Year, there will be a ceremony for the engagement and dowry exchange after we return. I am not entirely sure about the specifics, but it will involve our immediate family members at home, and you will present the dowry money to my parents as a proposal. Once they accept your dowry, it signifies their agreement to the marriage proposal. Following the New Year, we will need to visit each of our relatives and elders to pay our respects and offer gifts. While this may seem like a common practice everywhere, it has been many years since I last visited, and you have never been there. Although these elders have heard about my impending marriage, they have never met my husband. As a result, my mother wants us to make a favorable impression this time. We must visit all of our relatives' homes. On the eighth day of the first lunar month, we will have the wedding ceremony. My parents have already begun preparing the invitations and securing the venue, although the details are not yet finalized. They would like to hear your thoughts first. If you agree, they will proceed with the arrangements. However, if you have any differing opinions, we can discuss them. What are your thoughts?" Samantha Wembley spoke slowly, gazing at Chadwick Fullner with a mixture of anticipation and nervousness. She was genuinely concerned that Chadwick Fullner might have reservations.
• Chadwick Fullner hesitated momentarily, acknowledging that the situation seemed somewhat troublesome and time-consuming. Nevertheless, when it comes to marriage, it is essential to respect the wishes of one's future in-laws. Regardless of the inconvenience, one must acquiesce. Chadwick Fullner smiled and replied, "Certainly, no problem, although it will undoubtedly be a significant effort for your parents. By the way, do you happen to know the customary bride price in the region?"
• "I am actually not sure. I left for college and seldom returned home thereafter. I am unfamiliar with the customs there. Nevertheless, regardless of the amount, we should be generous. When the time comes, you can present it to my parents. The more relatives and friends witness it, the more honor you and my parents will receive. That is what my parents intend. In any case, it is merely a formality. Once the event is over, they will return all the money to us. Whether they do so or not is inconsequential; after all, I am their only daughter. Why does it sound odd when I mention receiving money from my parents?" Samantha Wembley chuckled as she spoke, clearly elated about marrying Chadwick Fullner.