An uncle said: [Tristan used to be so honest. How did he become so sharp-tongued after going to university?]
Virginia replied: [He got a job, so he’s become arrogant. He doesn’t respect his parents, let alone us!]
Madison added: [My eldest brother and sister-in-law are the same. They don’t even correct their rude child. He’s going to be a real problem!]
I stared at the messages on the screen, my fingers turning cold. But the reply that hurt me most was my father’s.
[I’m sorry, everyone. The child is still young and doesn’t understand. I apologize for him! He had a few drinks and spoke without thinking. Please don’t take it to heart. I’ll bring him to apologize in person another day!]
The more humble he acted, the more arrogant my aunts and uncles became.
[No, we can’t accept such a generous gesture.]
[Exactly, what if he says something wrong and embarrasses us in public? How will we save face then?]
[By the way, brother, are the things your son said—the exam list and the used car record—true?]
I couldn’t take it anymore. I sent screenshots of the evidence I had ready to the group chat. Instantly, the chat went silent; all the relatives who had been talking just moments ago were quiet.