“I’m an old man now. And as an old man, the most important thing is to know your place—otherwise your children and grandchildren will grow to resent you.”“I refuse to become the kind of old man people can’t stand,” Blake Morgan said with a cheerful smile.“In my heart, sir, you truly are a wise elder,” Joseph praised.“It isn’t exactly wisdom,” Blake replied. “It’s just this—try to think from the perspective of the young. That’s all.”“Not to boast, but in my family, we’ve never even had a real shouting match.”“The secret to running a household is balance and diplomacy. Step in where it’s needed, step back where it isn’t, and never insist that everyone do things your way.”“It’s the same with running a company. One person’s talent and judgment are finite. You have to gather the strengths of many if you want long-lasting stability.”The more Blake spoke, the more reflective he became. These were the lessons of decades of living.“You’re right, sir. That’s exactly how it is,” Joseph n

“What else would I be doing? Obviously, tormenting you,” Alice teased, eyes dancing. “What—don’t you like it when I tease you?”“Who likes being bullied?” Joseph chuckled helplessly.“If you don’t, then I simply must,” Alice declared, and leaned in for another kiss.After a bout of her playful antics, Joseph finally got the upper hand. In his arms, Alice had no tricks left and had to surrender—off she went to wash up and get ready for breakfast.By the time Joseph came out of the kitchen, Alice was already seated at the dining table, waiting.“Joseph, did you make extra? I bet that old woman is on her way,” Alice said between bites.“When have I not cooked enough? Don’t worry—there’s more than you two can finish,” Joseph replied with a smile.“Heh, perfect,” Alice grinned.Right then, a knock sounded at the door.“Right on cue. That must be her,” Alice said around a mouthful of bun.“I’ll get it,” Joseph said, rising and heading for the door.The moment he opened it, a warm cloud of p

“Can you not be so explicit? You’re shameless,” Alice huffed.“What’s there to be afraid of? There’s no one else here. As for his… affairs, the two of us know more than he does,” Mason Alvarez said bluntly.Alice’s pretty face flushed scarlet.“Ahem. I’m free this afternoon—and not tired,” Joseph cut in, clearing his throat.“In that case, let’s go out together later, Joseph!” Alice clapped softly, delighted. “It’s been ages since we went shopping—this is great!”She was, as ever, easy to please.After lunch, the three of them headed out.A woman’s appetite for shopping should never be underestimated—especially when money isn’t an issue. The two of them bought with effortless abandon. Heidi was different; she had money too, but never spent much—a virtue in its own right. Then again, spending freely isn’t exactly a vice either. If money can’t buy happiness, what’s the point of it?The day flew by. After a whirlwind of shopping, both Alice and Mason were thoroughly satisfied.The next d

With Joseph leading the way, the two cars pulled up beneath Brady Rogers’s building shortly after two o’clock.Seeing Joseph’s car, Brady hurried downstairs to welcome them.“Professor Wilson—everyone—Lindsay… thank you all for coming.” He greeted them warmly, shaking hands with each guest.“Professor Rogers, you’re too polite. We’re only here to observe. The one who’s truly worked hard is Professor Wilson.” Philip Anderson chuckled.“You’re all too kind. I didn’t expect both of you elders to come as well.” Brady offered another round of courtesy.“Rogers, we’re imposing on you again,” Richard Anderson laughed.“You exaggerate, Mr. Anderson. It’s an honor that you’d grace my humble home,” Brady replied.Exchanging polite pleasantries, the group made their way upstairs.“Professor Wilson, Miss Lindsay, everyone—please, come in and have a seat.” Mrs. Rogers ushered them inside and quickly served tea to each guest.“Hello, Uncle Joseph… Hello, Sister Lindsay.” A small head peek

“Not bad. Your movements were a little slow, but your accuracy was excellent—no mistakes at all.” Joseph nodded as he answered.“Really?” Lindsay’s cheeks finally relaxed into a smile.“Haha! I knew my granddaughter could do it.” “You must have confidence in yourself, girl. You’re outstanding.” Philip Anderson beamed with pride, unable to suppress his joy.“Of course it’s true,” Joseph continued. “But you need a steadier heart. Trust yourself more. Believe you are capable.”“Thank you, Professor Wilson,” Lindsay said gratefully, her eyes softening.“Professor Wilson’s students are impressive.” “Who knows—maybe someday the doctors at every major hospital in Nova City will be his students.” Kelly smiled lightly.“Teaching isn’t the work of just a year or two. The future… who can say?” Joseph replied with an easy laugh.“It’s already easy to imagine your future, Professor Wilson—your students spread across the world.” “At Nova University, whenever you teach, the classro