But—
Although Master Mu wouldn't go around telling people about it, even when someone asked, he would just brush the matter aside with a few vague words.
Even so, Zhou Mingbao's reputation among the neighbors had taken a hit.
In their eyes, Zhou Mingbao was a little too greedy.
There was nothing wrong with liking money.
Everyone liked money.
It was nothing to be ashamed of.
But a gentleman loved wealth and acquired it honorably.
Some lines simply couldn't be crossed.
Besides, Zhou Mingbao's actions hadn't just been a scam for money. They had also trampled on the kindness of an elder who cared about him.
It was hard not to feel uncomfortable about that.
After all, among the gifts Zhou Mingbao had received at his birthday banquet, the most precious one—the gift that had taken the most thought and effort—was the one from Old Mu, aside from the gifts from the Zhou family.
It should have been a gift he treasured.
Instead, just a few days after it was given, it had a new owner.
And it had nearly caused the person who gave it to him a great deal of trouble.
Everyone nearby who heard about it couldn't help shaking their heads and sighing.
What a mess.
"You know, after this happened, your Grandpa Mu and Grandma Tan grew distant not only from Little Zhou but from the entire Zhou family."
"Little Zhou was spoiled by Old Zhou. Who knows what he'll do next?"
"Just as I thought."
Grandpa Xiao sighed.
"Did Grandpa Zhou come looking for me because he heard about Mu Tan Song?"
Xiao Xiao recalled what his grandfather had said earlier. "So... Zhou Mingbao owes someone money?"
"He brought it on himself."
Grandpa Xiao gave a derisive snort.
"Xiao Mu was too trusting