Chapter 23 Family Harmony
When Fox got home, it was already late. He was carrying a large backpack, panting
heavily.
“Sorry, Mom, I missed the subway, so I’m a bit late.”
Fox apologized to Faye.
The table was already set with food, and his father was sitting and drinking beer.
“It’s okay, Fox. Maybe we should get you a cellphone. That way, you can inform us in advance if anything happens. Plus, you’ll need one for staying in touch when you go
to MIT.”
Ferren had no intention of blaming Fox.
He spoke sincerely, and Fox didn’t seem like he was up to any trouble. If Fox were involved in any criminal activity or using any bad substances, Ferren would have
noticed.
He knew his son well and could tell that Fox was simply a bit late, which wasn’t a big deal. Fox was an adult and could handle his own affairs.
“You could have started eating without me.
Fox said, noticing the food had gone cold.
“What’s that supposed to mean? Family meals are meant to be eaten together.”
Faye tapped Fox on the head. “Besides, you’ll be going away to college soon, and our family dinners will become rare.”
“Oh, my little Fox is leaving home. I don’t know what I’ll do.”
Faye hugged Fox, pressing his head into her chest and patting his back.
A mother’s hug was a rare and warm comfort for Fox, not just physically but also emotionally.
It brought him a sense of peace, allowing him to forget all his worries. But a real man can’t dwell in this feeling too long.
“Don’t worry, I’ll take care of myself.”
Fox smiled.
Then Faye reheated the food, and the family sat down to a warm and harmonious
Charter 23 Family Harmonk
dinner.
“Fox, I hate to dampen the mood, but if you don’t get in, don’t be discouraged. There
are other schools, and we have some savings. I’ve heard you can sponsor a
university to get admitted.”
Ferren mentioned this possibility. Though he was confident in Fox, life was unpredictable.
“I’ve got it under control, Dad. I’ll definitely get in.”
Fox felt warm inside. He knew the family’s savings weren’t much, and his father’s talk of sponsoring a university likely meant borrowing money. Ferren’s love was always silent but dependable. Fox wouldn’t let him down in this new life.
“Also, don’t worry about tuition. The car loan is almost paid off, and maybe we can take out a mortgage to cover your education. Once I get a job, I can pay it back slowly.”
Ferren suggested. However, he was currently unemployed, making it difficult to get a loan. Banks don’t easily give out loans without proper evaluations, and Ferren didn’t have the necessary connections or a job.
In this situation, he would have to turn to high–interest financial companies. These loans came with high interest rates.
“Don’t worry about tuition. I’ve already figured out a way. My classmates and I found a short–term job. We’ll have the money after we’re done.”
Fox smiled.
“A kid like you, finding work? Leave the earning to your father.”
To Faye, Fox would always be her child.
“Exactly, leave it to me. Just enjoy your vacation.”
Ferren nodded, agreeing with his wife.
“I’m an adult now. Working enriches my social experience, and it helps with college applications. The work–study experience can also boost my scholarship chances.”
Fox laughed.
Faye sighed, finally accepting that her child had grown up.
“No, Fox. I mean, I can take the job. I could even do it long–term.”
Ferren winked a
half–jokingly revealing his financial struggles.
2 M
“Sorry, Dad, they only hire handsome guys.”
Fox looked away, responding with humor.
“Hey, are you saying I’m not handsome? I’m still quite popular with the ladies!”
“Ferren, what nonsense are you talking? You’re not sleeping in our bed tonight!”
“No, honey, I’m sorry!”
The couple started bickering again.
In reality, Fox didn’t have a job lined up, but he had a general direction. If things went well, he could earn his first pot of gold.
Sitting on his bed, Fox opened his backpack, which was filled with books from the library. There were quite a few, and carrying them had been tiring. He needed to dive into these books and couldn’t just read a few. If he was going to do something, he had to do it well.
He picked up a book, turned on his desk lamp, and began studying deeply.
He studied late into the night, filling his mind with knowledge. After studying, he needed to practice what he learned.
Fox, exhausted, fell into a deep sleep. He had adjusted his biological clock to wake up on time, even after a late night. This habit was a remnant from his prison days when waking up on time was essential.
Relying on his strong willpower, Fox forced himself out of bed. Morning exercise was a good habit he didn’t want to lose.
Good health is always the most important thing.
