Crises in Love (Zora and Jaylan) novel Chapter 361

My Dad chuckled and said, “About 9 o'clock. That girl's planning something big, and this idea of hers is just too good to be true!”

I grinned and asked, “So are you excited? You don’t happen to have a new scheme brewing, do you?”

“Absolutely! If this thing takes off, I’m telling you, pumpkin, we’ll be sitting pretty!” His eyes lit up, dancing with infectious enthusiasm. “Just think, it’ll save us a fortune in advertising costs. It’s like getting an official endorsement. Imagine the reach that would have over our own efforts. Then we could negotiate even better terms with the state.”

“You sure know how to play the game, Dad.” I set down my glass and sat down beside him. “We should be doing this kind of promotion more often!”

“No, no, you’re underestimating Catherine’s project. You've got to consider their angle—they’re creating a tribute video for an international ambassadorship. That’s the real hook!” Dad said with a beaming smile.

Jaylan remained a silent spectator, listening with rapt attention, yet chose not to partake in the conversation.

“So, are you thinking of a roundabout way to make a splash?” I inquired.

“Exactly! There’s no shortage of folks here who idolize anything from abroad. If the video catches the attention of the foreigners, how can it not catch fire back home? If the internationals are watching, locals will be curious to check it out. I’m just worried we won’t be ready for the rush!”

Dad leaned back into the couch, rubbing his head. “Who would have thought? This is just too good. I need to figure out how to maximize this free publicity and extract even more value from it.”

He was so full of conviction, brimming with the energy of a young man.

“But don’t overdo it, Dad!” I said with genuine concern. “You’re not as young as you used to be.”

“Opportunities like this don’t come twice! If we miss this, who knows when the next one will come?”

“If you keep thinking like that, opportunities will seem endless. When will you ever retire if you try to seize them all?”

Dad sighed and tapped his head. “The years are catching up with me. I'm not as strong as I once was. Eventually, it’s all going to fall to you kids. So, I have to seize all the time to expand the value! I'll build a good foundation for you guys, to spare you any undue exhaustion in the future!”

His words almost brought me to tears. I understood that this was his heartfelt message to me.

“Tired? I get tired just walking a few steps, but I want to hear more about your grand plan!” I teased.

Dad laughed heartily. “Darlin’, you should know. This could put our Oldtown Avenue on the international map. Opportunities like this are rare! If we play our cards right, we won’t have to worry about being off the beaten path.”

“Leveraging your strengths is your trademark!” I praised him sincerely. “You attract attention from all corners without even trying!”

“This is a gift from the heavens, sweetheart! Of course, I’m thrilled. Once this takes off, the business opportunities will be endless,” Dad said, unable to contain his excitement. “That will secure a solid foundation for you guys.”

He wasn’t trying to hide his enthusiasm, not even from Jaylan. Anyone could tell he was treating Jaylan as a member of the family.

Jaylan looked pleased as punch, as if he owned the neighborhood himself, radiating a triumphant air.

I couldn’t help but snicker to myself. Tomorrow might well be Jaylan’s fall from grace.