Chapter 86
“Jared, is that true?” Gary glared coldly at Jared. “Dad, I was…” “Shut your mouth!” Gary cut Jared off. “Yes, we’re poor. But we could still afford to buy others a meal! You have a job now because others have helped you. Show some gratitude and respect to the tradition of others, will you?” Gary didn’t give Jared a chance to explain himself. “Squad Leader, Jared did it to save money! It’s no big deal. We shall congratulate Jared with dinner tonight!”
Franklin eased the tension to avoid an awkward dinner. “Mr. Saunders, actually Maria and I don’t mind if he doesn’t buy us dinner. It’s just that if he did, the staff would be more welcoming toward him.” With that, Zayne had again emphasized Jared’s pettiness. “I agree. This is Jared’s fault.
I’ll get him to honor the tradition by tomorrow,” Gray responded apologetically. “Actually, we don’t have to wait till tomorrow. After dinner, I’ll inform the staff and arrange a karaoke session. As long as Jared is willing to pay, I’m sure the others would be grateful,” Zayne suggested. “That’ll do!” Gary nodded. “Zayne, Mr. Chance’s family isn’t that well-off. Don’t impose too much on Jared,” Franklin advised. “Don’t worry, Mr. Saunders.
Three hundred would be more than enough.” A smile flashed across Zayne’s face. “Franklin, is this Maria’s boyfriend? Not only is he handsome, but he can handle things very well!” Gary complimented Zayne. “Indeed! He had even gotten back the money for my company because he’s an acquaintance of Tommy Lewis, the underground king of Horington. With just an order, I’ve gotten all my money back!”
Franklin couldn’t hide his contentment as he was very satisfied with his future son-in-law. Upon hearing that, Jared was stunned. Since when did Zayne have anything to do with that? I did all the work, but he got the recognition instead? “Tommy?” Gary paused and continued, “Isn’t he the infamous gangster in Horington? It’s better to avoid these people. Although they seem to do good now, it’s just a matter of time before they’re dealt with by law enforcement.”
Having worked as a government servant, it was only natural that Gary had bad impressions toward outlaws. “Mr. Chance, you’re mistaken! It’s an honor to have a relationship with Mr. Lewis, especially in Horington. How could you slander him? In fact, someone as insignificant as your son would never be a friend of the famous Mr. Lewis. You should refrain from talking in such a way. Otherwise, troubles may come to you one day.”
Zayne was angered by Gary’s statement. In response, Gary kept silent. “He has a point, Squad Leader. Time has changed. We need these people nowadays,” Franklin said placidly. Still, Gary kept his mouth shut. No one could change his perception toward outlaws such as Tommy.
That was one of the reasons why Jared never revealed to his parents his relationship with Tommy. If my parents knew about Tommy and me, they might even disown me! At the dining table, Zayne was indulging in alcohol while receiving praises from everyone. However, Jared had not taken a sip.
Zayne wasn’t happy with the fact that Jared had not offered him a toast. “Jared, why aren’t you drinking? You’re being such a wimp!” Zayne teased. “It’s not that I can’t drink. I just don’t think it’s worth the money! I’d rather have tea.” Jared flashed a grin.