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"You little shit, are you kidding me—"
Facing Thales' sardonic remarks, Earl Acheson Lacia lost control and stood up abruptly.
"Father, sit down!"
The earl's eldest son grabbed his father at the last moment, pressing him back into his seat with a look and tone that brooked no argument:
"You are an earl. Let me handle the discourtesy."
Earl Acheson's nostrils flared, his breathing rapid.
He looked at his son incredulously, then cast an angry glance at Thales, before snorting disdainfully and turning his head away.
Eddie's expression was grim as he nodded at his father.
This display of filial respect and paternal benevolence, where the eldest son gave prudent advice, and the earl showed willing compliance, filled Thales with envy.
This should be set as an example of father-son relations, heavily promoted throughout the nation.
However, a small voice rose in his mind once more:
Don't be fooled, Thales.
Firstly, perhaps they only behave like this in front of you?