Chapter 3

Two days later, a package arrived at my door. When I opened it, I found a crate of ultra-premium vintage Scotch.

I had to admit, my "new son-in-law" was far more filial than my actual wife.

In all our years of marriage, Chloe had never bought a single thing for my father. It was always me bending over backward to please her parents.

As long as she didn't roll her eyes and embarrass my dad in public, it was considered a miracle.

After receiving the gift, I sent Ethan a simple "Thank you" and told him I saw great potential in him.

I told him that as long as he treated my daughter well, I would be completely satisfied.

That evening, when Chloe came home from work and saw the expensive crate of Scotch in the living room, her face immediately darkened.

"Why the hell did you buy such expensive liquor? Do you honestly think you're worthy of drinking this?"

I wasn't. But your little boy toys certainly thought they were.

"It's not for me," I said quietly.

Chloe frowned, waving her hand dismissively. "Then send it to my dad's house."

This was bought by *my* son-in-law to honor *me*. Why would I give it to your arrogant father? Why didn't you ever think of giving anything to my dad to show some respect?

I watched Chloe take off her makeup at her vanity. I decided to test her one more time. "Honey, do you remember what day it is in two days?"

Chloe didn't even look at me, her voice dripping with irritation. "How should I know? Whatever day it is, it has nothing to do with me."

As expected, she had completely forgotten about my dad's 60th birthday bash.

I came from a poor, small-town background. My family didn't have money back then, so Chloe had always looked down on me, and she despised my parents even more.

But it didn't matter. Soon, I wouldn't have to deal with her disgust anymore.

I kept quiet and posted another Snapchat story, visible only to Ethan: "Got the drinks, now I just need a good buddy to share a glass with. Any takers?"

Right on cue, Ethan messaged me within seconds.

"Sir, I happen to be free tonight. I’d love to take you out for dinner. I promise I won't tell Chloe. Would that be okay?"

His words were so earnest, it was almost touching.

"Well, I wouldn't want to trouble you," I replied with a cold grin. The kid was desperate to meet the parents so he could fast-track the marriage.