Not Your Doormat Anymore novel Chapter 53

"Kourtney, I'm Jace's father. You can call me 'Dad' too... No, just call me Mr. Ranford for now."

Dad was smiling so brightly that I swore ever since I was born, I had never seen that kind of expression on his face.

"Mr. Ranford."

Surrounded by a bunch of older men, Kourtney felt even more uneasy. But remembering what I told her earlier—how she would be representing me today—she took a deep breath and gave Dad a smile.

"It's your first time visiting our home. I don't have much to offer, but take this stack of cash."

He immediately handed her a thick stack of cash. Just from the sight of it, I guessed there was at least ten grand in it.

Kourtney tried to refuse, but I shook my head. "It's not that much. Just take it."

She had no choice but to accept it. "Thank you, Mr. Ranford."

"If this brat ever bullies you, come tell me. I'll deal with him for you."

No one interrupted our family moment. After I handed over the gift I bought and made a few polite exchanges, I pulled Kourtney away from the crowd. Even then, I could still hear Dad's hearty laughter behind us.

"That's my daughter-in-law!"

I glanced back, only to see that Kourtney's face was already red.

Since it was Dad's birthday party and I was his only son, there were plenty of things that needed my attention. So, I left Kourtney in Mom's care. Seeing how much she liked Kourtney, I figured it would be fine.

While I mingled with the guests, Kourtney found herself surrounded by Mom and a group of wealthy ladies. Their endless questions made her head spin. Under their watchful eyes, she felt completely out of place and lowered her head, her voice growing smaller.

"I... I'm from the countryside. My parents passed away in a car accident not long ago. I only have an uncle left—no other relatives."