The Amazing Son-in-Law: Chapters 1686-1690

Chapter 1686

Austin, young and spoiled, eagerly sought to impress his grandfather, Lord Banks. He attempted to debate the old man, but a single remark infuriated Lord Banks. Before Austin could explain, his father, Jordan, intervened, delivering a brutal beating. Humiliated and injured, Austin was left bewildered by his father's sudden aggression, especially in front of the entire family. Jordan, acutely aware of Lord Banks's power and fearing repercussions for his son's insolence, felt his own distress keenly. He feared that Austin's actions could jeopardize Austin's future prospects with the Banks family.

Lord Banks's authoritarian nature stemmed from a harsh upbringing. One of twenty-three sons from his father's numerous wives, he'd spent fifty years vying for power, ultimately claiming the family patriarch's position. This intense struggle shaped his domineering and unforgiving personality. Austin's defiance, perceived as a challenge to Lord Banks's authority, was tantamount to suicide. After Jordan finished beating Austin, Lord Banks curtly dismissed the incident and resumed the meeting.

Lord Banks announced a significant business deal with Japanese partners, securing operating rights to major ports and access to substantial shipping resources. He tasked his eldest son, Zayne, and grandson, Fitz, with leading the negotiations, emphasizing the importance of thoroughly assessing Ito and Takahashi, the two Japanese families involved.

Chapter 1687

Zayne was proud of his selection to lead the Japanese negotiations, seeing it as a testament to his father's trust. However, Lord Banks's decision to include his granddaughter, Zara, ignited jealousy among other family heirs. This preferential treatment highlighted Lord Banks's evident favoritism towards Zara, even to the detriment of his grandsons.

The Banks family was known for its numerous descendants, yet Lord Banks showed a marked softness towards Zara. This contrasted sharply with his strict demeanor towards male heirs. His affection was visible not only in his actions but also in Zara's name, meaning “the joy of knowing fish,” a reference to Zhuangzi's philosophy, signifying a life of joy and contentment. This contrasted sharply with the names of his grandsons—Fitz (knowledge of right and wrong), Austin (knowing one’s origins), and Zayne (presumably referencing a detailed account or report)—which reflected the old man's expectations and warnings.

Chapter 1688

Lord Banks's preference for Zara made her a highly desirable partner, perceived as a pathway to immense wealth and influence. This led to her nickname, “Su Wanyi” (roughly translating to “Supreme One”).

Following the meeting, Lord Banks instructed Zayne, Fitz, and Zara to formulate a strategy for their Japanese trip. He stressed the importance of choosing the right family to approach first, despite the current economic downturn affecting both the Ito and Takahashi families. Lord Banks also used this as an opportunity to encourage Zayne's ambition and to express his hope that Zayne will one day succeed him as patriarch. He emphasized the importance of expanding the Banks Family's influence internationally.

Chapter 1689

Zayne, Fitz, and Zara discussed their approach. Fitz favored contacting the Ito family due to their stronger presence in key port cities. Zara, however, proposed contacting the Takahashi family first, citing Ito Yuhiko's current difficulties: his daughter's recent injury and the Ito family's investment in a struggling pharmaceutical company. Zara's strategic thinking impressed her brother, and her insight ultimately swayed her father.

Chapter 1690

Zayne revealed Lord Banks's plans for Fitz's marriage—an alliance with a prominent American family to aid international expansion. Fitz expressed his preference for someone else, leading to a discussion about his potential future wife. Zara firmly declared her independence from family pressure in choosing a spouse. The chapter ends with Zayne reminding Zara that she still needs to choose a suitable partner, despite her own assertions of independence.