Chapter 18 — Forty Billion And People Only Ask For A Kitchen

Ngoc Han found my name in the business registration documents.

She didn't have the money, but she had something more dangerous: the belief that I was deliberately hiding it from the whole family.

One night, she sent a screenshot to the family group. My name, Thao's name, charter capital and central kitchen address are clearly displayed.

“An Nhien said she was unemployed, but she was a company director.”

Ms. Huong immediately called Minh Khang.

“Do you know about this?”

"Know."

“Why didn't you tell mom?”

“Because that is the wife and children's job.”

“My wife and children hid it from the whole family.”

"Mom, I didn't tell them everything about the shop. Why should Nhien's money be different?"

Mrs. Huong was silent. Ngoc Han snatched the phone, saying I used money of unknown origin.

Minh Khang hung up the phone a second time.

I didn't like how he had to hang up, but I knew he was learning not to get dragged into an endless argument.

The next day, a tax inspector came to check Moc Bep because of an anonymous complaint. I prepared documents: capital contribution, rental contract, bill of materials, payroll and statements. The inspection ended after two days, with no violations.

Thao breathed a sigh of relief.

“Ngoc Han did it?”

"Maybe. But this time she can't do anything."

The lawyer advised me to send her a written warning if she continued to defame. I agree. Not for revenge, but so people understand the boundaries are real.

Minh Khang read the text and asked me if I was afraid that my mother would be sad.

“Is she upset because you made the rules, or because my sister can no longer take her money?”

He didn't answer.

That night, Mrs. Huong sent me a text message: "Mom wants to meet privately."

I went to her house. She placed an old savings book on the table.

"I don't know how much money you have. But I know if you had it, Han would find a way to get it."

I looked at her.

“Mom, do you want me to give her money?”

"No. I want you to tell Minh Khang the truth before someone else speaks for you."

That was the first time Mrs. Huong stood for something that was right, even though it made her daughter uncomfortable.

I went home and told Minh Khang:

“Maybe it's time to tell everyone.”

He nodded.

“This Sunday, at my house.”