Chapter 712

Since they had no children yet, the couple was able to enjoy the finer things in life.

However, expenses would rise significantly as their family grew; raising children required a substantial financial commitment.

“I have an income and am part of the family, so I’ll contribute to some household expenses. If you can, save some money to pay off the mortgage early. That way, you’ll have extra cash once the house loan is settled,” she suggested.

Serenity did not propose helping with the mortgage payments.

Zachary had purchased the villa before their marriage, and he was still making mortgage payments, similar to Hank.

Although Serenity and Zachary were no longer married in name and had improved their relationship, she wanted to avoid the same fate as her sister. It was his house, and she did not wish to covet it or contribute to the mortgage.

What if she and Zachary were not destined to be together? A divorce could become contentious, involving asset division and disputes.

It was better to keep their finances separate from the very beginning.

Resting his chin on her shoulder, Zachary affectionately replied, “Don’t worry about the mortgage, Seren. Although my savings aren’t substantial, I can handle the payments. Plus, with the New Year approaching, I’ll receive a year-end bonus. It’s quite generous for senior executives.”

“I promised you when we married that I would take care of you. I won’t split expenses with you.”

“Even though I’m still paying for the villa, I made a significant down payment. The mortgage isn’t too burdensome. Remember, your husband earns millions each year.”

Serenity gently pried his hand away from her and turned to face him directly. “As long as you’re confident in your decisions,” she said.

Being part of the high-income bracket, Zachary was accustomed to dining at upscale restaurants and paying premium prices.

She had pointed it out to him, and it wasn’t her place to say more if he did not want to listen.

“I’m going back to our house in Brynfield when you get to work later. I feel more comfortable living there; it’s much more accessible.”

While the environment here was nicer, the villa was far from the places she frequented.

With a smile, Zachary replied, “Both places are our home. If you prefer Brynfield, we can live there. We can take short breaks here on weekends or during holidays.”

“Okay,” Serenity responded. It seemed wasteful to have a villa if it was only for occasional stays.

Zachary likely would not have purchased property in Brynfield if it weren’t for their whirlwind marriage. Ultimately, he kept the villa from her because he suspected she was a cunning gold digger. He hesitated to reveal that he earned millions.

Since their marriage, Serenity had never inquired about his salary.

“What are your plans today?”

Zachary pulled out a chair for her and then sat down next to her.

“I’m on leave now. I don’t have much to do besides my crafts, but I plan to visit my sister’s shop to see how I can help.”

Zachary nodded.

“Jasmine and I are checking out an Italian place tonight,” she said.

“I’m not free tonight,” Zachary replied.

“I didn’t say I was taking you.”

Zachary was at a loss for words.

“Jasmine and I agreed it would just be the two of us. We can enjoy our meal. She mentioned she had been tagging along to Drake’s dinner appointments while I was away and didn’t get enough to eat.”

Zachary buried his head in his breakfast.

It had nothing to do with him anyway.