My Repentant Brothers (Madeline Larson)

At Madeline's words, Helena snapped back to reality and quickly released Yohannes' hand. She laughed at herself for mistakenly treating him like her grandson's wife and almost giving him the family bracelet meant for future daughters-in-law, "I was just telling him how much I enjoy his TV shows"

Madeline nodded,

ing on the other side of Helena. She addressed her two brothers who had been busy preparing the meal, "Thanks for all your hard work. Let's dig in.

"Eugene, try Gavvy's cooking. His roasted eggplant is amazing. I love it. It's perfect. And these veggies are fresh from our grandparents' farm-totally organic

Eugene nodded, thinking he could easily become a great cook if he wanted to. Despite not feeling entirely convinced, be spoke politely. "I can smell the delicious aroma. Gavin's skills are impressive. I never thought someone who used to just scrambled eggs could now whip up something so fancy.

make

"I'm different though. I focus on working hard outside to earn money, ensuring my future family has everything they need. It's the responsibility of a man, and I take it seriously-never slack off when it comes to providing for the family."

Gavin frowned, thinking, 'She just asked you to try some eggplant. Who's talking about supporting a family here? You're such a smooth talker. Classic charmer.

Gavin resisted the urge to roll his eyes. "Oh, you're working so hard. Unlike me, who's busy with studies and research, earning enough to support my family for generations.

Tve made so much that it'll just spoil the kids. Kids should learn to work hard themselves, but mine are born financially free. What a pity!"

Gavin sighed heavily, pretending to be troubled. "Money isn't something I lack, and I've got plenty of time too. I'm just too perfect Eugene took a big bite of eggplant. "You're still young. Wealth can slip through your fingers. Talk big when you're older and wiser.

Tm not just talking," Gavin lamented. "The other day, I thought I'd spent quite a bit from my account this year, but guess what? Not even a month's interest was touched. I'll have to rely on Maddie to help spend it all since I don't order takeout or fancy clothes-barely spend 2 thousand dollars a year.

"Not afraid of you laughing, Maddie recently wanted to buy me clothes because mine were patched up. I figured why bother dressing up? Picked up some tees on sale for 2 bucks each; they'll do for a while."NôvelD(ram)a.ôrg owns this content.

Frank listened in disbelief. News always talks about wealthy people spending thousands on branded clothes, but here's this young guy with brains and money doing things differently.

Remarkably, despite his wealth, he wears cheap clothes and handles all household chores himself. Frank felt inadequate he'd never witnessed such a dedicated family man in the village or beyond.

"Gavin, don't be too hard on yourself. You earn money to spend it. Treat yourself!" Frank noted, "You look thinner than last time. You're young; don't wear yourself out."

"Mr. Lewis, I know you care for me." Cavin grinned like a carefree kid from a rich family. "I've always believed money should be spent on my wife. As long as she's happy. I'm happy.

"I've seen how loving Mr. Lewis and Mrs. Lewis are. You handled all the tough jobs back in the village, and I've always admired that. I decided then to follow your example-to be a responsible and caring man."

Frank wasn't someone easily flattered or made happy, but Gavin's words were genuine and touched him deeply.

Inspired, Frank wanted to share a drink with Gavin. If Gavin were his grandson-in-law, he'd be proud to introduce him to everyone in the village. He'd never worry about Madeline's future, knowing she's with such a thoughtful guy.

"Wonderful! Gavin, you're so considerate. Maddie, Gavin got everything ready for us and cooked up this amazing meal-a true gem!" Frank couldn't stop praising him. He valued actions over words, and Gavin's actions were impeccable.

11:00 AM

Gavin said. "Mr. Lewis, if I'd been born earlier, we'd be brothers for sure-Id even consider you big brother"

Frank chuckled. "Then let's drink to that! Do we have any wine!"

'Ill go get some." Gavin said, setting down his fork.

*Ill come with you." Frank insisted.

Helena interjected, "You're such a fuss. Can't you let Gavin rest! He's barely eaten

"Mrs. Lewis, they say that when you meet a kindred spirit, even a thousand drinks aren't enough. I'm just thrilled to share a drink with Mr. Lewis It's such a blessing" Gavin said with a bright smile. "But don't think I'm just flattering him. It's true. listening to wise elders can save you from trouble later on."

Frank was overjoyed hearing this. He thought. What a humble, respectful, and well-behaved young man! A great grandson-in-law indeed.

Eugene sat silently, poking at his mac and cheese without much enthusiasm. Gavin certainly had a knack for charming everyone, and Yohannes was winning hearts easily too.

Eugene might seem at a disadvantage, but being savvy, he knew there was still an opportunity for him.

He suddenly frowned, set down his fork, and stood up. "Maddie, you guys keep eating. I'll go check on the baby

"Eugene, is everything alright? Aren't you enjoying the food: Madeline asked with concern.

"It's nothing Eugene gave a warm smile, although his discomfort was evident. III eat in a bit. With that, he left the table for the room. holding his stomach as if enduring significant pain. Madeline frowned and followed him immediately. "Eugene, if you're not well, don't suffer in silence"