It was common sense to look at people, not their shoes. Staring at someone's shoes for too long was extremely rude and a serious breach of etiquette.
Luo Bin showed no anger. He returned the man's gaze with perfectly calm eyes.
"Dad, apart from Ager, Robin Sear is my best friend. If you keep disrespecting him like this, I'll take him and move out."
"Do you think those good-for-nothing friends of yours would pay your living expenses once they learned you'd fallen out with your father?"
"Wesem, as far as I know, you don't have a habit of stashing money away. You spend every last penny of your monthly allowance before the month is even over!"
The unspoken message was clear: without the Edward family's protection, he wouldn't even have money for food if he left. He could only go hungry!
"Dad, that's obviously..." Wesem protested, his lips jutting out resentfully.
"All right, what I just said was only a reminder. Keep your distance from those good-for-nothing friends from now on! Robin Sear, was it? Osa mentioned you in a letter. Not bad. You certainly have fine looks, and you're composed enough, too. Very few teenage boys can withstand my scrutiny."
"Come here. Take this. It's a welcoming gift for you."
Old Edward took the watch off his wrist and held it out, looking as though he wouldn't withdraw his hand until Luo Bin accepted it. Left with little choice, Luo Bin took the watch and thanked him.
"Oh, Sear, you're the first friend Wesem has brought home apart from Ager. No need to stand on ceremony with me. In three days, the Manor will host a grand party. Everyone who's anyone in London will be attending. Stay for it!"
Wism Edward winked and pulled faces at Luo Bin, urging