Jessica’s eyes filled with tears.
“This isn’t about money,” I continued. “It never was. It’s about character. And tonight showed me exactly who values appearances over substance.”
I stood. “I raised my son to build something real. Not to kneel for approval.”
Mark looked at me like he was seeing me for the first time. “I get it now,” he said quietly.
Jessica nodded. “I want to work. For real. No shortcuts.”
“Good,” I said. “Then start at the bottom. Learn everything. Fail. Earn it.”
They agreed without hesitation.
Six months later, they launched their own company. Small. Underfunded. Honest. Long nights, cheap food, real effort. They were exhausted—and happier than they’d ever been.
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