Chapter 24: Less Than a Thousand

"The problem is, Frederick's accustomed to getting his way due to his social standing. Although his father, Mr. Lowe, is an honest and upright man, he's too busy to monitor his son's behavior. Furthermore, no one dares to criticize Frederick. That's how he's become so arrogant. I'll consult Mr. Grange about this." William said, then left to find Walter.

"You shouldn't have been so rough! We could be in trouble!" Josephine looked at Jared helplessly.

"Well, that's what happens when someone lays a finger on you!" Jared replied, staring at her impassively.

Touched by Jared's protectiveness, Josephine rolled her eyes. "You should leave and lie low. Let my father consult Mr. Grange first. Return only after they've resolved the matter."

Fearing Frederick's revenge, Josephine urged Jared out of the residence.

Resigned, Jared sighed and went home. The Starry Compass held enough resources for a full day of cultivation, so he stayed put.

The next morning, William called Jared to the Sullivan residence. As it was his future father-in-law's order, he couldn't refuse.

Upon arriving, Jared saw William had filled a car trunk with gifts.

"Jared, I'm taking you to Mr. Lowe's. We need to apologize sincerely. He's an honorable man; I think he'll forgive you," William said.

Jared almost refused, but seeing the dark circles under William's eyes—evidence of a sleepless night—he changed his mind.

Josephine wanted to come, but William thought it best she didn't; a confrontation could escalate.

After preparing, William drove Jared to the mayor's house. Glen Lowe had been Horington's mayor for over a decade, transforming it from a town into a city. He was a highly competent official.

They arrived in an older neighborhood. Glen's house was a modest two-story building on a two-hundred-square-meter lot.

The contrast between his successful career and his humble home was striking, especially given the million-dollar luxury car parked outside.

"Be careful what you say, and don't act impulsively!" William warned.

Jared nodded.

A middle-aged woman in an apron answered the door—Glen's wife, Helen Wood.

"Mrs. Lowe, we have an appointment with Mr. Lowe," William greeted respectfully.

Jared was surprised. The mayor's wife? Her attire seemed rather informal.

"Come in, Sullivan! Glen told me you were coming," Helen greeted cheerfully. "Why the gifts? Glen doesn't like receiving them."

"They're just food, Mrs. Lowe—milk and honey. The total value is under a thousand!" William explained quickly.

Glen apparently had a rule: he refused gifts exceeding one thousand in value, regardless of the giver.

Only after William's explanation did Helen accept them. "Please sit. Glen's in a meeting, but he'll be finished soon."

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