Chapter 448: A House Full of Demands

"My parents said they're still supporting their grown daughter at their age," Denise Carver said with a gentle smile, though calculation gleamed in her eyes.

Ruth Caldwell's expression darkened instantly.

Denise quickly changed tack. "I refused immediately! You're already relying on Raymond and Diane for care. How could we possibly ask more of you?"

The elderly woman's face softened slightly.

"That's why I didn't come to you for help. Howard and I gritted our teeth through buying all the furniture and appliances ourselves." Denise sighed. "But now we have to host guests before everything's ready. It's so embarrassing..."

"I don't mind the shame for myself. But when relatives ask why we live in an upscale neighborhood without even a washing machine? Should we say all our money went to the house while our in-laws contributed nothing?"

"Once that gossip spreads, Howard and I can bear it. But your reputation would suffer."

"Of course, if you don't care about appearances, I'd love to have more guests!" Denise's bright smile masked inner scorn—letting those bumpkins into her new home? Never!

Ruth's gaze flickered uncertainly.

"If the house isn't ready, we'll cancel. I won't have guests lacking basic amenities for my birthday celebration."

"You're absolutely right, Mother." Denise feigned concern. "If only my parents could help more... Oh, I meant my own parents, don't misunderstand."

Ruth: "..." She hadn't been suspicious until now.

The matriarch pointedly ignored the hint about financial assistance.

Denise suppressed an eye roll. Old fox!

Yet she'd accurately predicted Ruth's priorities.

Raymond Harrow remained silent throughout. He wasn't supposed to attend—this was a last-minute schedule change.

His wife Diane mediated: "Perhaps we could host some guests at our place—"

"No." Ruth cut her off sharply. "No visitors at Raymond's home."

Diane retreated immediately.

Raymond stood decisively. "We'll book hotel rooms. Convenient and simple."

Denise instantly agreed. "Such a thoughtful solution!"

"Hotels?" Ruth paled. "The expense!"

"My treat." Raymond massaged his temples.

"Absolutely not! You already cover our daily expenses and the banquet. We have another son—this isn't fair!"

Howard Carver's eyes darkened. True, Raymond paid for the banquet, but he'd keep the gift money. The favors from their friends would eventually require repayment—who really benefited here?

Ruth stood firm. "They must stay with family! Otherwise the village rumors... At my age, I still have pride!"

Denise's eyes gleamed. "I have an idea..."

All eyes turned to her.