Chapter 8: The Scholarship Trick

Lunchtime.

Rhett came home, and to my shock, Mila was kneeling at the door like a servant from a bygone era. I was about to help her up when Rhett walked in and, without a word, kicked her hard in the chest. His face was full of disdain.

"Heh, finally learned your lesson?! Women like you need to be disciplined. If you can't have children, then serve us like a maid!"

Rhett then changed his shoes and walked into the house. When he saw me, a scheming smile appeared on his face.

"The star student is back. How much money did you bring home?"

I looked at Mila, who was still lying on the ground, unable to get up for a long time. I felt like this family had gone completely insane!

I forced a smile.

"I am this year's valedictorian. Once I pass my thesis defense, I can get multiple scholarships. Mom said you need $30,000. I can probably give you $10,000."

Rhett's eyes lit up at the mention of $10,000, and his tone softened considerably.

"Mom, look at that, Ryann is amazing!"

"By the way, did you tell Ryann about the great match we found for her?"

My mom's face lit up with joy when she heard what I said.

"Yes, yes, I told her."

"Ryann, you haven't said whether you agree or not. If you agree, we can take you to meet them today."

Instantly, all eyes in the family were on me, even Mila, who had just gotten up, gave me a knowing glance.

I pretended to be happy.

"Of course, that's great. I've studied so hard just to marry into a good family. If you and Mom have found a good match for me, I definitely agree."

"But ..."

I frowned slightly.

My mom and Rhett immediately became anxious.

"But what?!"

"Well, my thesis was sent back by my advisor for revisions. I can still graduate smoothly, but I might not get the scholarship."

"I thought you were in a hurry for me to come home because something big happened, so I came back first. But hearing what you said, it seems like I don't need the diploma or the scholarship anymore. After all, if there's such a good family willing to marry me, why bother with the diploma?"

Hearing this, my mom panicked.

"No, no, Ryann, they are willing to give so much because you are a graduate student. They said it would ensure a better future for the next generation."

Rhett was also anxious.

"Exactly, just revise the thesis. How can you give up a $10,000 scholarship? Go back to school and revise it. Don't worry, I'll keep an eye on the marriage proposal for you. It won't fall through."

I pretended to hesitate and looked at them.

"But ... what if ... they offer $50,000?"

"What if what?!"

"They offer money with conditions. Go back to school and study hard. Graduate smoothly and bring the money back!"

Before I could say anything more, Rhett and my mom pushed my luggage out the door and waved me off.

"Go, go, study hard! Graduate quickly. If you don't graduate in a month, see how we deal with you!"

Before the door closed, I caught a glimpse of Mila's brief, twisted, and sinister smile that sent chills down my spine.