The Charismatic Charlie Wade

Jacob’s cheeks blazed with embarrassment at her words.

He hesitated, then shot back, “Who ever said I was about to ask for money from my son-in-law? Did I even hint at such a thing? There’s a world of difference between finding a suitable son-in-law.”

Elaine gave him a withering look. “Save me your lecture,” she retorted. She didn’t bother arguing further with him. Instead, she turned to Jagoan, resolute in her stance. “Listen up, dear son-in-law. No matter what nonsense he’s spouting, you mustn’t give him a single cent!”

Abruptly, Jacob’s temper flared. He straightened up and spat, “Elaine, why must you persist in this? It’s always about money for you, isn’t it?”

Elaine playfully shook her head, mischief dancing in her eyes. “What’s the matter? Since you’re not asking your dear son-in-law for money, I’m simply advising him not to offer you any. What’s so bothersome about that?”

“You… You…” Jacob hadn’t expected Elaine’s defense to be so vigorous, quashing his own arguments. He’d said his piece, so why did she have the audacity to approach Jagoan for money?

Jacob, defeated by his own hesitation and lacking a counter, fumed, “I… I never meant to request money from my good son-in-law… I just wanted to remind him to be cautious out there!”

Elaine feigned nonchalance, took a deep breath, and placed her hands soothingly on her chest, as if greatly relieved. “Oh, Jacob, you nearly gave me a heart attack. I thought you had the nerve to ask your dear son-in-law for money! He works hard for his earnings. You’re a capable man, so you shouldn’t be spending other people’s money.”

Jacob snapped, “Elaine, what’s gotten into you? I’ve already told you, I have no intention of seeking money. Why are you endlessly fixated on money?”

Watching Jacob’s frustration while he remained reluctant to express his true thoughts, Jagoan couldn’t help but think that the ancient adage might hold some truth, this poor man must indeed be despised.

perpetually lived in the

China, it was clear to everyone that Jacob had a desire to reunite with her. Matilda herself had been contemplating the same. They were like star-crossed lovers. If only Jacob

Jacob’s league, suddenly entered the picture, stealing away the

do you need money? If so, just say

of hope flickered in Jacob, only to be extinguished by Elaine’s mockery and the whole money debacle. He was too

found himself at a

doesn’t need your money. He’s a respected figure in the arts community, vice president of the Painting and Calligraphy Association. To be blunt,

ill at ease. Though he wanted to stride up and give Elaine a piece of his mind, he recognized that her words had him cornered. Should he actually go along with Jagoan’s offer, he’d be

the matter rest. He echoed Jacob’s words, “Dad, I appreciate your concern. I’ll be careful. Nothing else to worry about. I need to finish

Jacob like someone riding a donkey downhill, but he always slipped down like a donkey from higher ground. Elaine’s few words blocked his escape, leaving him to slide down her slope. This was

He didn’t offer any further openings. Having spoken his piece, he turned

Jacob felt a pit of discomfort form within him. Gazing at Elaine’s triumphant smile, he

would his father-in-law, Jacob, muster the courage to break free from his inner turmoil and live as

packed, Jagoan left home under the cover of

his father-in-law, Jacob, cigarette perched in

a smile, “Good

“Yes, Dad. I am on my way to the

his hands, ready to speak, when Elaine suddenly descended the stairs, feigning a limp and exclaimed, “Oh,