Mrs. Hill shot Zeke an unpleasant look. “Douglas, who is he?” “He's the one I've always told you guys about, Williams,” Douglas replied. Mrs. Hill looked even more upset. “I won't nag you for messing around all day long outside. But why did you bring such a person to our home?” “Douglas, he's the one you were going to introduce to me?” Sandra mocked. “Jeez, what motives do you have for asking me to marry an ex-con?” “Shut up, Sandra,” Douglas scolded. “What nonsense are you spouting?” “I'm just telling the truth,” Sandra spat out, unyielding. “Just ignore him, Sandra,” Mrs. Hill scolded crossly. “The dishes are ready. Come help me in the kitchen.” The two went back to the kitchenette. Douglas was embarrassed to the extreme. “Sorry about that, Williams. Don't take offence at them.” “They're sharp-tongued but soft at heart.” Zeke put on a wry smile. Looks like Douglas' status at home isn't so good. His mother and sister didn't spare him from any embarrassment. Forget it. Since you've helped me when I was at my lowest, I'll help you elevate your status at home today. Douglas led Zeke into the house. The dining table was set with wine and a few dishes. Just as he was about to pick up his chopstick and dig in, Sandra walked in and took away all the dishes. Douglas was flustered. “Sandra, what are you doing?” “These are not for you!” Sandra said. “Jayden is coming over to talk about the demolition and our marriage. You can drink with him when he comes later.”“Seriously, how did I end up with a useless brother like you? If it weren't because we have no other men in the family, I wouldn't have let you sit on this table and disgrace me.” Douglas quivered with anger. “Don't you think you're a little too much, Sandra? My friend is here...” Zeke quickly patted Douglas' shoulder, handing him a cigarette. “Chill.” Douglas slouched over, looking embarrassed. “I'm sorry you had to see that.” Zeke smiled and said nothing. Just then, a burst of hearty laughter sounded from the courtyard. “Aunt, Sandra, what are you guys cooking? It smells so good.” Jayden had arrived. Mrs. Hill and Sandra rushed out to greet him. “Jayden, you're here. Come on in. I've specially made you your favourite braised pork.” “Jayden, why do you look more and more handsome every day?” Zeke could clearly see the stark contrast between their enthusiasm for Jayden and their indifference to Douglas. “What the hell?” Douglas' complexion turned for the worst. With Sandra leading the way, Jayden came in. His eyes brightened up immediately when he saw Zeke. “Yo, you're here too? What a coincidence. “ “You guys know each other?” Sandra asked in surprise. “I met him at the village entrance just now. Isn't he one of Douglas' former cellmates?” Jayden said. “Well, I'm kind of curious about life in prison. Maybe you can tell me about it later.” “Yeah, yeah.” Sandra smiled. “He's been in prison for five years. He should know everything about life behind a cage at the back of his hand.” “That's it!” Douglas couldn't stand it anymore as the other party kept talking about their 'prison life'. “Williams, come on. Let's go out and eat.”Sandra was displeased. “Go out and eat? Are you that rich? Jayden is willing to sit with you because he didn't want to embarrass you, don't be insensitive.” Zeke patted Douglas' shoulder, comforting, “Let's just make do with it.” “But...” Douglas was dissatisfied. “Sit down.” Zeke pressed Douglas to the seat. Jayden laughed cheerfully. “You really need to learn from Williams, Douglas.” “You can only survive in this society with thick skin.”