Chapter 77: Rules

James Bennett finally couldn’t suppress his curiosity and softly asked, "Mr. Foster, I’m a bit curious, what is your status in the Foster family? Why do you have such strong financial power?" William Foster listened and smiled slowly as he answered, "In my Foster family, I belong to the category of being somewhat older, having a certain reputation but not much real power. Our Foster family has always enjoyed high prestige in the industry and has amassed colossal wealth over generations, mostly left by diligent ancestors." "Luckily, I manage a small portion of this vast empire, and after some time and effort, the profits are quite substantial. Hence, I now have enough ability to provide Clara with a very favorable living environment, allowing her to be like a cherished little princess, happy and carefree." Upon hearing this, Clara Bennett immediately stood up to defend him, remembering how he had once mentioned that his influence within his wealthy family wasn’t that significant. "Brother, can’t you stop delving into these matters? Actually, I don’t care about his specific role or position in the Foster family. For me, it’s entirely irrelevant. Marriage is our personal matter, and what I value most is his character and personality; external factors don’t matter to me!" As a matter of fact, Clara Bennett never intended to become someone pampered by others from the beginning. Even if William Foster were to face business failure and lose his fortune in the future, Clara Bennett is confident enough to rely on her own hands to rebuild a career and sustain their future life together. After hearing this, James Bennett shook his head helplessly, expressing intense speechlessness. Meanwhile, Edward Bennett, hearing his sister speak that way, displayed a mocking expression, with a slight twitch at the corners of his mouth. Standing beside him, Charles Bennett couldn’t control his emotions and whispered in Edward Bennett’s ear, "Look, she hasn’t officially become a member of the Foster family yet, but she’s keen to speak on their behalf. Are we, her real family, the true supporters, or is it the other side? She’s really leaning towards them." Initially, the brothers were all trying to find a good match for their beloved sister, trying every possible means to learn more about the Foster family and her future brother-in-law. But it seems they’re met with cold dismissal rather than fulfilling their purpose, leaving them somewhat discontented. The little one indeed speaks for outsiders; this kindness made him smile gently. Finally, James Bennett stopped further questioning, "Alright then, according to the original plan. Our family will provide twenty billion as dowry, and please take back the gifts and money you brought. Moreover, we won’t accept the sixty billion." His words carried a tone of undeniable determination. William Foster still insisted, "These are all gifts for Clara." His gaze was filled with determination and tenderness, as if these were not just material gifts, but also a heartfelt expression. James Bennett calmly responded, "We will directly give Clara the twenty billion as dowry, ensuring she can freely dispose of this sum. Likewise, if she accepts your gifts, we will ensure they are properly stored in her private villa to avoid unnecessary trouble. Regarding that part of the money, if she wants to accept it, it’s hers; if not, it’s up to you to handle, and we Bennetts won’t interfere at all." His words were steady and powerful, each one sounded firm. After all, the Bennett family is not a money-driven family. Even though a sum near a million dollars is considerable, to someone from a good background with business achievements, it’s not particularly appealing. Especially these elder brothers who cherish their sister deeply; they would never be blinded by money. For such integrity, William Foster felt a deep sense of admiration. The Bennetts not only act with integrity but also conduct themselves with generosity and openness. In contrast to Samuel Grant, the insidious villain, these upright and fearless men are the complete opposite. Samuel Grant’s deep scheming and ruthless methods are worlds apart from the high morals of these brothers, which command respect. William Foster softly laughed beside Clara Bennett, saying, "Seeing how outstanding your brothers are, I know now why you are so remarkable." In his eyes, this girl exudes a gentle and elegant aura, making one inevitably view her in a new light. Growing up in such a warm, harmonious family, a girl nurtured in such an environment is surely the epitome of beauty, gentleness, and virtue, radiating an irresistible charm. This charm comes not just from physical beauty, but from a unique allure born of pure goodness from within. Referring to her family, Clara Bennett proudly raised her little chin, looking at William Foster with eyes filled with confidence, "Of course, my brothers are extraordinary!" Her words were full of love and pride for her family. Upon hearing this, William Foster felt a bit of sour jealousy in his heart; his tone contained a touch of unwillingness and curiosity as he asked, "How about me? Am I not good enough?" His gaze revealed a desire to be recognized equally, seeming to care much about Clara’s response. Seeing this, Clara Bennett’s eyes glinted with mischief as a playful smile appeared on her face, deliberately drawing out her words slowly, "But I don’t see you as a brother..." This answer was clearly a little trap set to provoke more reactions from William Foster. Before she could finish, William Foster’s mind suddenly envisioned a future scene, beginning to yearn for the newlyweds’ night when he would have this bride calling him "brother" willingly. However, the title here does not refer to a familial relationship, but a more complex emotional exchange, which made him smile gently with softer eyes. Ultimately, despite Clara Bennett’s firm refusal and her strong request for William Foster to take back this heavy gift. Faced with such determined opposition, William Foster simply smiled lightly and shook his head, explaining that it was very inauspicious to do so because traditional customs dictate that if the bride price doesn’t stay overnight at the bride’s family, it indicates the relationship will not have a fortunate ending. Hearing this, Clara Bennett looked puzzled at him and softly questioned, "Is there really such a custom?" Clearly, she was entirely unaware of the necessity or rationale behind this ancient tradition. William Foster solemnly nodded, with a particularly serious expression as he said, "Yes, our Foster family is indeed a historical, large family; we strictly follow ancestral rules in many matters. Especially for such significant matters that affect life, even more so. So, let’s first place these things in a villa you don’t usually stay in."