In a fit of anger, he exclaimed, “The money indeed came from my son-in-law. While it’s fine if you, Elaine, choose not to cook for me, isn’t it excessive that you won’t even prepare a meal for your own son-in-law?”
Elaine rolled her eyes and retorted, “If a good son-in-law thinks I’m being unreasonable, he’ll tell me directly. There’s no need for you to chirp about it; honestly, you’re not the one in a hurry!”
Jacob, feeling desperate, replied, “Elaine, what kind of ridiculous metaphor is that? Charlie and I share a son-in-law relationship. If we were in ancient times, I’d be the king. How can you even compare?”
Elaine glanced at Souna and smirked, “Did you see that, sister-in-law? He gets all worked up after just a few words!”
Souna scoffed, “Isn’t it typical of the men in the Willson family? Slow to act, quick to lose their temper, with big egos but small abilities!”
Elaine clapped her hands, clearly delighted. “Sister-in-law, you hit the nail on the head! Every word resonates with me!”
Jacob, feeling his face flush with embarrassment, stood up and addressed Claire, “Claire, you can just order takeout for me.”
Claire, confused, asked, “Dad, where are you going?”
Jacob replied angrily, “I’m too frustrated to stick around. I’m going back to my room to calm down.”
Claire, helpless, turned to Elaine, “Mom, can you just ease up a bit?”
Souna, noticing Claire’s discomfort, quickly chimed in, “Yes, Elaine, you’re right. There’s no need to keep this going. We should be more forgiving!”
Elaine, realizing the moment, responded loudly, “Sister-in-law, I’m definitely giving you face!”
After saying that, she waved her hand dismissively. “Jacob, don’t sulk all the time. Can’t I just speak my mind?”
Jacob stood frozen, feeling caught in a whirlwind of emotions, wanting to cry without shedding any tears.
Souna then said, “Elaine, it’s alright. I’ll take my leave for now. Let’s arrange another time to meet!”
Elaine quickly interjected, “No need to wait! Let’s plan for tomorrow. Come over to my place in the afternoon. I’ll take you to our villa at Champs Elysées Hot Springs. We can enjoy a spa and have a meal there!”
Souna’s eyes lit up with excitement. “Wow, Elaine! I had no idea you owned a villa in Champs Elysées! They say those places are for the wealthy; it’s impossible to buy one!”
Elaine beamed, “Well, that’s what happens when my daughter finds a good son-in-law!”
Souna turned her gaze to Charlie, saying humbly, “Charlie… it seems you’re the most capable of the bunch…”
Charlie replied nonchalantly, “I wouldn’t put it that way.”
Souna had heard from her daughter Wendy earlier that they could enjoy such luxuries thanks to Charlie’s help and support. Hence, she was cautious with her words around him. She turned to Elaine, “Elaine, if you’re sure about tomorrow, please message me on WeChat!”
“Absolutely!”
“Okay, I’ll look out for your message!”
With that, Souna left, clearly in high spirits.
Elaine entered the living room, stretched happily, and said, “No wonder Mrs. Willson always favors Souna. She really knows how to flatter; her compliments are so genuine. It’s refreshing!”
Claire shook her head, feeling exasperated. Remembering she had something important to discuss, she raised her voice slightly and said with a serious expression, “Charlie, Dad, Mom, I have something very important I need to talk to you about!”