chapter 37 The reality of a son of a bitch ===

Meral was deeply saddened by Les's appearance. Despite this, she had no plans to reveal the events of the previous night's dinner. Two middle-aged women stood together, observing with concern, both wearing frowns. A younger woman, plain in appearance, advised, "Sister-in-law, you should talk to Meral. The Quinnell family is struggling due to the eldest brother's poor decisions. Les has been under immense pressure to keep the family business afloat for the past six months." The current state of the Quinnell family is precarious. If our partnership with Galaxy Clothing Company is severed, it could be the final blow that leads to the family's downfall." Meral looked the same as another woman but bearing the marks of hardship and listened intently. Madge, in response to her sister-in-law's words, sighed, "You both know Meral's stubborn nature. How can she be persuaded?" Mervin interjected, "What influence do you have? You can't even manage your husband or daughter! Remember when our eldest brother was assisting the Herbert family? I warned you then that if we didn't intervene, the Quinnell family would suffer." But have you heeded my words? Even if you heard me out a few times, did you once again intervene with your elder brother? If you had followed my advice and not let your eldest brother get involved in the Herbert family's affairs, would we have fallen to this point? " Mervin said that Madge was speechless and his face became even more bitter. Turning to see her mother being reprimanded by her aunt repeatedly, Meral couldn't hold back any longer. "Aunt, please cease your words! Initially, my father and Mr. Herbert were close companions. It is only right for him to assist the Herbert family. To turn a blind eye if the Herbert family faces ruin would be unjust!" Mervin scoffed, "So, you believe it's justified for your father to perish?" Meral's voice resonated deeply, "Despite my father's demise, he harbors no shame. He solely holds accountable those who devour others without a second thought. They drove my father to his grave!" Mervin's voice turned cold as he spoke, "Is your father not ashamed? He destroyed countless family legacies, leading to a life of misery for both me and your uncle because of you. Is he deserving of our respect?" "Now I'm too lazy to talk about him, just you!" Do you realize the efforts your uncle made to secure an invitation to The Willow family's banquet? He went to great lengths to encourage you to mingle with influential individuals, but what did you do? What transpired last night? Are you deserving of your uncle and all of us?" "Enough!" Les cut off Mervin's scolding with a stern look. Turning to Meral, Les implored, "Meral, your uncle is asking you for the final time, why did you upset Fitch? Please, tell me, so I can figure out a solution! Do you truly wish to see our entire family destitute?" Memories of her lover, whom she reunited with after seven years the previous night, flashed through Meral's mind. Her expression shifted multiple times. Ultimately, she bit her lip and shook her head in silence. Les let out a deep sigh and remarked, "Looks like the Quinnell family's resilience is truly running thin." At that moment, his phone abruptly rang. Despite his reluctance, Les ignored the call, sensing it would be bothersome at this hour. To his surprise, the phone persisted in its ringing. Retrieving it and glancing at the screen, his eyes widened in disbelief. Displayed on the screen was the caller ID, "Fitch"! Various thoughts and conjectures flooded his mind. Could it be that Fitch had a change of heart? The prospect of not being able to meet Fitch, not being able to convey his thoughts, had been weighing on him. Fitch's call sparked a newfound hope within him! Perhaps, the situation wasn't as dire as he had presumed! Without hesitation, Les promptly answered the call! "Mr. Wade! I visited your residence this morning. The housekeeper mentioned your absence and I intended to head to the office to locate you!" Les' tone exuded deference, his demeanor notably humble. Back when the Quinnell family was prosperous, Les, also known as the master who walked sideways in Lymelathe City, was respectfully called Master Quinnell wherever he went. A senior wage earner like Fitch, who works in an industry owned by the Herbert family, wouldn't dare to slack off even if he saw Les. But now, due to trouble caused by his eldest brother Larry, Les has transitioned from the master of Quinnell to the son of Quinnell. He must address everyone he sees. When encountering Fitch, he must show support and address him as Mr. Wade, checking his mood. "Mr. Quinnell, I'm giving you a chance. Bring your niece Meral to Galaxy Clothing Company. If you can meet my requirements, we can continue our cooperation!" Fitch's voice on the phone was cold and arrogant. Les was thrilled and responded quickly, "Alright, no problem, I'll be there!" Fitch reminded, "You're not the only one coming, Meral is also expected." Les suddenly realized and felt a sense of foreboding. The issue began when Meral attended a recent dinner party. Fitch specifically requested her presence. Could he have ulterior motives? He inquired, "Mr. Wade, why did you want Meral to come?" Fitch coldly replied, "Why all the questions? Are you coming or not? You have half an hour. If you can't make it, don't bother showing up." With that, Fitch ended the call abruptly. Mervin approached and asked, "Was that Fitch on the phone? Any updates?" Les grimaced, stating, "Fitch gave me half an hour and requested Meral's presence. Once we meet his demands, cooperation can resume. Don't procrastinate." "Then go, why are you still standing there!" Mervin pushed Les anxiously. Les looked at Meral and voiced his concern, "I fear Fitch may have ulterior motives, risking harm to Meral. Why else insist on her accompanying me?" Mervin looked at Meral and said, "Meral, your past actions are irrelevant now. With Fitch's offer, we must find a solution. It's your moment. Will you join your uncle?" Meral nodded firmly without hesitation and affirmed, "I will." Madge worriedly inquired, "Meral, what happened last night? What if danger lurks? Your father is gone, and losing you would be unbearable for your mother and me." Mervin sternly addressed Madge and remarked, "Enough, sister-in-law. Consider our future without dwelling on the past. Please, set aside selfishness." "I..." Madge was speechless. Meral reassured her mother, "Mom, don't worry, Fitch won't dare to harm me, and my uncle is here, so nothing will happen." Afterward, she turned to Les, "Uncle, let's not waste any time, let's go." Les nodded, said nothing more, and walked away. After all, Fitch had only given them half an hour and there was no room for delay. The Quinnell family had never felt so embarrassed in all their years of meeting people. Nevertheless, the situation was daunting, even if they were only given half an hour, they had to comply. This was the harsh reality they faced.