I sent all of my bills to my nominal family:
Robert’s $50,000 in school fees
- My parents give me $8,000 a month
- Diane’s payment of $50,000 for a necklace
And one special bill for George:
$150,000 for all the combat training, gear, and help I gave him over the course of three years
Let them work it out on their own.
I went back to my house after living in peace for a month.
When I opened the door, I saw that my family was still living in my house.
Mom ran over. “You’re back!” Are you tired from your trip? Are you hungry? Would you like me to get you some fresh meat?”
Her never-before-seen excitement made my skin crawl.
“Don’t worry, Elder.”
“What did you say my name was? I am your mum!”
“I’ve cut off all ties with you.” Elder is right.
Mother looked at Father with desperation, and he slowly came over.
“Stop making things hard. Look at how much Mother cares about you. Why mess up a good pack life?”
“Didn’t you ask for termination? Said that anyone who backs down is a coward? Have you signed the papers for the ritual?”
Dad pressed his lips together and then took my hand.
“That’s enough. You cancelled our trip and messed up our plans. I’ve forgiven you for all of that. We’ll stop talking about severance pay now. Look how nice I am to you?”
I pulled away. “Stop wasting time.” Put your name on the papers. “Let’s finish this up nicely.”
“Show her the gift we got her!” Mother told him.”
Dad quickly brought a big box.
“You’ve always wanted this bracelet with diamonds, right? Dad even spent his retirement money on it!”
I looked at it quickly, and even from across the room, I could tell it was fake. These crystals didn’t have any natural energy.
“Father, you paid $50,000 for her real necklace. You bought junk from a flea market for me? At least spend enough money to get a good fake if you’re going to lie. Did you think I wouldn’t be able to tell the difference?”
Father’s face turned red.
“It’s not a lie! I got it from the jeweller in the North! I have proof!”
“Then let’s go to their store right now. If they’re selling fake goods, they’ll have to pay a lot of money.
“That’s… in the Southern area…
“Not a problem. I’ll pay for your permission to travel. “Let’s go now.”
Robert came in and said, “Father, stop pretending!” You bought it for $300 at the street market, so it’s not real. She doesn’t deserve real diamonds; she only deserves fake junk!”
“Shut up!” said Father.”
“Just end the relationship! Diane is back with her family. We are still a happy family!”
“Adult pack business isn’t for pups,” Mother said as she pulled Robert. Get out of here!”
“Hold on, Robert. Let me explain why your parents don’t want to pay you severance since you don’t understand.
Robert crossed his arms and said, “Fine.” Tell me more.
“How much money do your parents make every month?””
“They’re done working.” No money coming in.
“And what about your private school fees?””
“$50,000 a semester, plus $5,000 in extra fees every month.”
“So your parents can’t even pay for your needs for a month. The mortgage on this house is $12,000 a month. I give your parents $8,000 a month. You four will all be homeless.
Robert’s face changed. “What? We have Diane! She’ll be there for us!”
“Diane just lost her third job in the Northern Territory. I don’t think she’s passed any combat tests. The business of her adoptive parents went under. They can’t help you.
Robert’s face grew darker. “The house is part of the family contract—parents should get half!””
“I bought this house on my own after I turned 18. The pack law says that if you sever it, you can’t claim it. “Little brother, learn the old laws.”
Robert’s face got darker because he couldn’t argue.
“Don’t be scared of her! We can start over after we break up! We can work it out!”
“Shut your mouth!” Dad yelled as he slapped Robert hard.”
Mother angrily pulled him away.
“Get to your room!” Who told you to say such stupid things?”
Mother came back after locking Robert up. “Robert is young and stupid.” Don’t pay any attention to him.
