Married at First Sight (Serenity and Zachary) novel Chapter 4542

Chapter 4542 
Romina was still convinced River had done it on purpose. 
River fired back, “You think you’re a weak woman? When you’re drunk, you’re a beast. If you don’t believe me, go call Maddox. He saw the whole thing—watched you come after me without lifting a finger.” 
Romina had no response. 
She turned to her family, searching their faces for some sign of support. 
“Romina…” Donovan sighed. “River’s telling the truth. He brought you home last night, just like this. Maddox called me, I questioned him, and he confirmed it—you went after River.” 

Romina squeezed her eyes shut. 
She wanted to crawl under a rock and never come out. 
Why did she have to drink so much last night? And if she had to get drunk, why couldn’t she have just let Maddox take her home? Why did she go after River? 
Now, she was in so deep even the Yellow River couldn’t wash her clean. 
Several minutes passed before she finally opened her eyes, stared at River, and asked, “What do you want?” Serenity cleared her throat and stepped in. “Romina, River has always kept himself clean— no scandals, a good reputation. Last night, you crossed a line. Everyone knows. You ruined his name. So we came here today with a little gift, something we put together quickly. River says it’s a betrothal gift. You took advantage of him, so now he wants you to take responsibility. 
“Don’t worry—this is just symbolic. If the marriage is agreed upon, I’ll call home and have our family send over a proper bride price. The York family won’t treat you unfairly. Whatever is owed to you, you’ll get—maybe even more than other daughters-in-law.” 
Romina gasped. “Sister Seren! I was drunk—I wasn’t thinking straight. I can clarify things to the public, issue a public apology, and I’ll pay for any emotional damages. Whatever amount, as long as it’s reasonable, I’ll pay. But marry River? No way! We’re not even dating. There’s no love between us. How can you expect us to marry?” 
Mrs. Lafond chimed in, “Miss Hunt, Mr. York, Romina was clearly in the wrong. We’re willing to apologize and offer compensation. But a marriage between two people with no feelings? That’s not right. A forced marriage won’t end well—it’ll only lead to resentment. That’s not good for anyone.” 
Mr. Lafond nodded in agreement. 
But Old Mr. Lafond remained silent, his eyes shifting between his granddaughter and River. 
River was clearly being petty, but there was something more to this. Could it be that after years of bickering, River had actually fallen for Romina? 
Then he looked back at Romina—clearly at a disadvantage now. She’d put herself in this situation. 
They’d warned her repeatedly not to drink. She didn’t listen. 
She knew River would be there at the party but still drank like she had something to prove. 
Even someone with high tolerance could end up drunk. 

So Old Mr. Lafond decided to hold back for now—he’d let the two young ones sort this out themselves.