Chapter 2
Author: Manuel Sterling
last update Last Updated: 2024-10-29 19:42:56

Tom’s Mother-in-law pointed a shaky finger at him. “You pushed me, Tom! I saw you!”

Tom’s jaw dropped. “What? No, I didn’t! I wasn’t even near you!”

His father-in-law stormed into the room, eyes blazing. “What’s this nonsense, Tom?” he roared. Without warning, he slapped Tom hard across the face.

Malia, Tom’s wife, rushed in behind her father. “Dad, stop!” she cried, but then turned to Tom with tears in her eyes. “Tom, did you... did you really push her?”

Tom looked at her, hurt and confused. “Malia, you know me! I’d never do that!”

Paul, Malia’s brother, entered the room, glaring at Tom. “So now you’re calling our mother a liar?”

A woman who seemed to be the head maid rushed out to help her up, “Are you okay Madame,” 

“I’m not calling anyone a liar. I’m just saying I didn’t push her,” Tom said as he waved his head trying to calm himself down.

His eyes quickly caught the surveillance camera’s, “The camera’s, yes! Let’s check the cameras. They’ll show the truth.”

Mrs. Evelyn cried out, “Oh, so now you need cameras to prove I’m lying?”

Tom took a deep breath, trying to stay calm. “No, I’m just saying we can clear this up easily.”

Paul stepped closer, his fists clenched. “You think you can waltz in here, marry my sister, and start accusing our mom? You’ve got some nerve!”

Malia placed a hand on Paul’s arm. “Paul, wait. Maybe Tom’s right. Maybe we should check the cameras.”

Malia’s Father glared at Tom. “You better hope those cameras show what you say they will. If you laid a hand on her...”

Tom nodded, his voice steady. “They will, Mr. Jameson,  I didn’t touch her.”

Paul snorted. “I’ve never trusted you, Tom. And now this? You’ve got some explaining to do.”

Tom’s face hardened. “I don’t need to explain anything. The cameras will speak for themselves.”

Mrs. Evelyn started to sob. “I can’t believe you’re all doubting me. My own family, and you’re siding with him.”

Malia looked torn. “Mom, it’s not about sides. It’s about the truth.”

Mrs. Evelyn looked at Paul and Paul immediately understood the assignment. 

“Dad, I think if we trust mum, we wouldn’t be disrespecting her by believing this trash,” Paul said.

“Hmm,” Mr. Jameson paused.

“Yes, that’s true!” Riley echoed.

“You know what, we don’t need cameras to know what happened here,” Mr. Jameson said firmly.

Tom stared at him in disbelief. “What? Why not? The cameras will show the truth!”

Mrs. Evelyn shook her head, tears streaming down her face. “You’re just trying to find a way to make me look like the liar here, Tom.”

Malia looked at her mother, then at Tom. “Maybe the cameras aren’t necessary. We should trust what Mom says. She wouldn’t lie about something like this.”

Tom’s frustration boiled over. “This is insane! The cameras are right here. Why won’t you just look?”

Paul stepped in front of Tom, his face inches away. “Because we don’t need a machine to tell us what our mother felt. You think you’re smarter than all of us?”

Tom took a step back, shaking his head. “This isn’t about being smart. It’s about clearing my name.”

Mr. Jameson crossed his arms. “The fact that you’re so desperate to check the cameras makes you look guilty, Tom.”

Tom’s eyes widened. “Guilty? For wanting to prove I didn’t do anything?”

Mrs. Evelyn sobbed louder. “He’s trying to turn you all against me. Can’t you see that?”

Malia moved to comfort her mother. “Mom, it’s okay. We believe you. Tom, why can’t you just admit what you did?”

Tom ran a hand through his hair, “Oh my goodness, I can’t admit to something I didn’t do!”

Paul pointed a finger at Tom. “You always have an excuse, don’t you? Always trying to wiggle out of trouble. Not this time.”

Tom felt his desperation rising. “This isn’t about excuses. The cameras will show the truth, and you all know it.”

Mr. Jameson shook his head. “We know the truth already, Tom. You hurt her, and now you’re trying to cover it up.”

Tom’s voice broke as he pleaded. “Malia, please. You know me. You know I wouldn’t do this.”

“Tom, if you loved me, you’d stop trying to fight this. You’d own up to what you did” Malia replied.

“I do love you. That’s why I’m fighting. Because I’m innocent,” Tom replied.

Mrs. Evelyn whimpered. “I can’t believe we’re even having this discussion. My own daughter doubted me because of him.”

Tom’s shoulders slumped. He looked around him.

“Tch,” he sighed. “What a mess,” he uttered softly,

Paul smirked. “Looks like the cameras won’t save you this time, Tom. You’re on your own.”

“So no one believes me?” Tom looked at each of them in turn, searching for any sign of understanding, but found only cold, accusing eyes. 

Suddenly, the front door opened, and a young man walked in. Interrupting the tense atmosphere, The young man entered, tall and confident beside Malia.

"Everyone, this is Dave," Malia declared, her voice cutting through the silence like a knife. 

"He's the man I want to marry."

The room went silent for a while.

“Finally, the trash’s time has run out,” Paul whispered, to break the silence.

“Good day everyone, it’s nice to finally meet you all,” Dave said.

“It’s nice to see Malia has brought a gentleman home,” Aunt Margaret said.

“Mr. Jameson Rossi, Mrs. Evelyn Rossi. Special greetings to you both,” Dave said as he bowed.

“Welcome dear child,” Mrs. Evelyn forced a smile as she held right arm with her left hand, making it obvious that something happened right before Dave came in.

Tom's heart sank. "What?" he managed to whisper, disbelief etched across his face.

Malia's gaze hardened as she reached into her bag, bringing out a stack of papers. She tossed them at Tom's feet. "Sign these, Tom. I want a divorce."

Tom stooped down, gathering the scattered pages. His voice was strained but composed. "You're serious?"

Malia's expression was firming. "Yes. Sign them and get out."

“What’s he up to now,” someone murmured as Tom walked to a nearby table.

He picked up a pen and set the paper down. He signed the papers without hesitation and handed them back to Malia. "There. Done."

Paul jumped forward, "You're just going to sign it? Just like that?"

Tom met Paul's gaze evenly. "Yeah. Just like that."

“What? Just like that? You're not going to beg for forgiveness or mercy?” Riley screamed in confusion.

Mrs. Jameson shook her head, as she let out a smirk, "You must be out of your mind. You have nothing left."

Tom's voice was calm, almost detached. "Maybe. But I'd rather have nothing than stay where I'm not wanted."

Malia's resolve wavered for a fleeting moment before hardening again. "Just go, Tom."

Without another word, Tom turned and walked out the door, leaving behind a room filled with stunned silence and shattered relationships.

Tom stepped out of the gate to find a lineup of sleek black cars waiting for him. Each car was guarded by sharp-suited bodyguards. As he walked down the short stairs, they all bowed to him simultaneously. A woman approached, holding out a phone.

The bodyguards formed a protective circle around him. Without a word spoken, they escorted Tom to one of the waiting cars.

As Tom settled into the backseat, the engine purred to life, and the convoy smoothly departed. 








Related Chapters

  • The Useless Son-In-law is a God of War   Chapter 3

    For two years, Zen had played the role of a dutiful husband, all while secretly working to change his brother’s biometrics to his own. The real Tom had died 2 years ago, and the current Tom is his twin brother, Zen Diel. Tom showed so much promise as the legitimate son but ended up amounting to nothing, his brother, Zen, was thrown to the battlefield at a young age and the only name he knew from then on was his status as God of War, the name that traumatized soldiers on the battlefield, “The Monarch of Death.”2 years ago, Zen was called back from the battlefield by his grandfather in order to save the name of their family by taking the place of his twin brother who was murdered on his way to visit the Diel manor.It was a long, risky game, but it had given him access to all the information he needed and the identity of Tom. He also saw 2 years of what his brother faced for so many years. Now, with the divorce finalized, Zen felt a sense of relief. He was free to start his real missi

  • The Useless Son-In-law is a God of War   Chapter 4

    Zen remained silent, his expression unchanged.Celeste turned her gaze to Keisha. “And you, Why would a security personnel be taking a beggar upstairs? Did the executives request to speak with the leaders of the beggars?,” Celeste laughed.Keisha didn't respond, simply pressing the button for their floor.As the elevator ascended, Celeste continued, “It’s a shame, really. You two look like you’re headed to a costume party. The theme must be 'downtrodden and desperate.'”“I don’t think it’s a good idea to attack these people who did nothing to you,” Anna said behind the big pile of files. “You! Shutup!,” Celeste roared.“How dare you talk back? Your on coffee duty for a week,” Celeste continued.The elevator dinged, and the doors slid open. Celeste strutted out, still smirking. “Good luck with your errands. Try not to embarrass yourselves too much.”As Celeste walked out, Anna slowed her pace right behind and turned with the pile of files , “I would bow right now but these files are t

  • The Useless Son-In-law is a God of War   Chapter 5

    The grand ballroom was alive with music and laughter. People danced under glittering chandeliers.Zen stood quietly in the party that Keisha convinced him to attend. He watched the scene with a calm expression. Nearby, a group of people were deep in discussion about recent changes in the city.“Have you heard?” a tall man with a beard leaned in, his voice excited. “The owner of mega has finally shown up in Mega.”A woman in a green dress raised her eyebrow. “I thought Willow was the owner.”“That’s not possible,” another man, younger and dressed in a sharp tuxedo, shook his head. “She never said she owned Mega. In fact, she’s always been clear that she’s just a spokesperson.”“In her words, the ‘CEO’ of mega” another voice added.A woman with red hair swirled her champagne. “Maybe she’s just the face. The real power might be someone we’ve never seen.”“Who could it be then?” the bearded man asked. “Who’s powerful enough to stay hidden all this time?”“I heard a rumor,” the younger ma

  • The Useless Son-In-law is a God of War   Chapter 6

    Zen woke up to the gentle warmth of the morning sun filtering through the sheer curtains of the elegant room. He stretched a bit as he got up."It was so dark last night I didn’t notice how nice this place was," he murmured to himself, running a hand over the plush bedding.“When was the last time I slept so comfortably?” He thought to himself.Just then, a soft knock at the door pulled him from his thoughts. "Come in," Zen called, straightening up.Keisha stepped in, "Good morning, Zen. I hope you slept well."Zen nodded. "Better than I have in a while. This place is... different."Keisha smiled slightly, “it’s called luxury chief,” she said as she walked towards the table to take a sit.“Very funny,” Zen replied sarcastically as he dived into the bed more."I need to ask you something,” Keisha said.“Last night, at the party, why did you heal that man? It’s unlike you to step in like that."Zen shrugged, leaning back against the headboard. "I don’t know. I just felt like it."“Let’s

  • The Useless Son-In-law is a God of War   Chapter 7

    The woman didn’t respond immediately, but her eyes locked onto his with a calculating gaze. "Tom, I presume," she finally said, her voice smooth and deadly.Zen nodded. "And you are?""It’s not something you need to know when your on death’s door," she replied, drawing a knife from her belt. Zen sighed. "Why does it always have to be when I’m tired? Oh well, I was a bit bored anyway."The woman lunged at him, her movements were very precise and swift. Zen blocked her initial strike, countering with a quick jab to her wrist. The knife clattered to the ground, but she was unfazed, immediately launching a series of kicks aimed at his stomach.Zen blocked each one, his eyes never leaving hers. "You’re good," he said as he held her hand and twisted it.He cracked his neck and folded his arm in a boxing pose without moving an inch. “But I don’t have all day to play cat and dog,” He added.She grunted in pain but twisted free, spinning to face him again. "You’re not bad your—“Before she co

  • The Useless Son-In-law is a God of War   Chapter 8

    Cyrus and Zen arrived at Robert Leon’s house. The front door was opened by a lady.“Robert’s eldest daughter, Nia.” Cyrus informed Zen.“Mr. Cyrus, who’s this?” Nia asked, her eyes flicking over to Zen, who came with no briefcase or medical tools.“This is Tom, the practitioner I mentioned,” Cyrus replied, his tone respectful. “He’s the one who helped me with my issue.”Nia’s gaze softened slightly, but there was still a hint of skepticism. “Please come in. My father is in his room, but be warned, we have a team of doctors here who have been treating him.”As they entered, Cyrus led the way and they found Robert lying on a bed, looking pale and weary. Two doctors were scattered around the room, discussing treatment options.“Dr. Lee, Dr. Morris,” Cyrus greeted the doctors with a nod. “This is Tom. He’s here to see if he can help Robert.”Dr. Lee, a middle-aged man with a stern demeanor, raised an eyebrow as he noticed Zen pull an acupuncture kit out of his pocket. “I see we have a new

  • The Useless Son-In-law is a God of War   Chapter 9

    As Zen and Cyrus walked toward the door, the tension from the room lingered. Nia approached them suddenly.“Mr. Zen, wait,” Nia called out. “I want to apologize for Jane’s behavior. She was out of line. I’m grateful for what you did for my father.”“Can I get your contact, so I can call you to check on my dad once in a while?” Nia added.Zen paused, his expression still guarded. “Thank you, Nia. I understand the stress you’re under. However, I don’t think it’s wise for me to leave my contact information.”Nia looked taken aback. “Why not?”Zen glanced at Cyrus before responding. “I’d prefer not to be involved in situations where I’m met with hostility. Perhaps it’s best if we keep our interactions to a minimum.”Cyrus gave Nia a reassuring look. “I’m sorry for the trouble, Nia. I understand Tom’s point of view.”“Your keys,” Zen turned to Cyrus.Cyrus immediately puts his hands into his pockets, retrieving the key for Zen.With that, Zen walked out of the house, leaving Nia and Cyrus

  • The Useless Son-In-law is a God of War   Chapter 10

    Zen’s eyes were locked on the photograph of Silas and Malia. Rosalia watched, beside him, her own face mirroring concern.“Why are they holding hands here? Did she betray him?” Zen muttered, his fingers tracing the edges of the photograph.“What was that?” Rosalia asked as her gaze shifted to the photo. Zen pretended like he didn’t hear her. “Silas was known for his cruelty. If he had a personal vendetta, he didn’t hold back. You said he wasn’t a friend?”Zen scoffed. “Friend? No, definitely not. He never had a friend, only toys and people he saw equal to him,” Zen said, as he made things up.“Why would my late brother's wife be holding this Silas guy’s hand in a photo?” Zen thought to himself.Rosalia fingers drummed lightly on the table as she rummaged through old files. “I wonder why a tough guy like that would be holding a pretty lady’s hand for a photo.”Zen’s eyes were fixed on the particular photo of Silas and Malia. “This is the most crucial lead yet.”“I’m confused tho, you

Latest Chapter

  • The Useless Son-In-law is a God of War   

    Chapter 86

    The room hung in stunned silence, the air thick with disbelief. Yaya remained on his knees, his voice breaking as he groveled toward Zen. His head bowed so low it seemed he might sink into the marble floor. “Please, I’ll do anything!” Yaya’s words poured out like a flood, his hands trembling as they gripped the floor beneath him. “Just—just call them back. Restore my distribution channels. I can fix this! I’ll pay whatever you want!” Jun stared at his father, horror and confusion warring on his face. His voice came out sharp, cutting through the murmurs beginning to rise around the room. “Dad! What are you doing?” Jun took a step closer, grabbing Yaya by the arm. “Get up! Why are you kneeling to him?” Yaya barely turned, his eyes wild with desperation. “Let go of me, Jun! You don’t understand what’s happening here!” “I don’t understand?” Jun’s voice cracked as his confusion turned to anger. “You’re humiliating yourself! Him? He’s nothing! A useless son—” *SMACK!* Yaya’s ha

  • The Useless Son-In-law is a God of War   

    Chapter 85

    Zen's gaze remained steady as the man took another step closer, the condescension dripping from his tone. “Hey! Look!” Someone echoed. “That’s Mr. Yaya. Jun’s father. What’s he doing here?” Another voice echoed. “Do you even understand the weight of the people in this room, Tom?” Yaya’s voice was loud enough to draw more eyes to their corner. “Men who have built empires, shaped industries, and created legacies. And then there’s you—scraping by, pretending to fit into a world you clearly don’t belong to.” Rosalia, her frustration evident, stepped forward again. “Mr. Yaya, this is getting out of hand. You have no right—” “Stay out of it, Mrs. Rosalia,” Yaya snapped, his eyes narrowing. “You don’t understand the stakes here. This is about respect, and this boy has none.” Jun smirked as he pushed his uncle’s hands off himself, crossing his arms as he looked Zen up and down. “He doesn’t just lack respect, Father—he lacks everything. Power, influence, wealth. What does he have? A

  • The Useless Son-In-law is a God of War   

    Chapter 84

    Zen turned slowly, his eyes locking onto the man who had called out. His tone was sharp and mocking, cutting through the air like a whip. The man was tall, his stance brimming with arrogance as he squared his shoulders and stepped forward. Rosalia’s smile faltered, and she instinctively stood from her chair. “Jun, what are you doing?” Jun ignored her, his eyes focused entirely on Zen. “I’m asking what right he has to be sitting here with you.” Zen’s expression was unreadable, but there was a flicker of annoyance in his gaze. He stayed calm, leaning slightly on the back of the chair he’d just pulled out for Rosalia. “And who are you to decide that?” Jun scoffed, his lips twisting into a bitter smile. “Who am I? That’s rich coming from someone like you. Do you even know where you are? Do you have any idea the kind of people in this room?” “I’m well aware,” Zen said evenly, his voice low but commanding. “Now, why don’t you explain why this concerns you?” Jun’s hand clenched i

  • The Useless Son-In-law is a God of War   

    Chapter 83

    Zen turned slightly, scanning the crowd. His eyes landed on Rosalia, who stood a few feet away, her soft smile aimed directly at him. She looked stunning, her emerald-green gown flowing gracefully as she approached him. "Tom," she said, her voice warm and teasing, "I thought I’d never get through that sea of people to find you." “Rosalia,” he said, his lips curving into a faint smile. “You look like you’re enjoying yourself.” She gave a small laugh, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. “You could say that, though I don’t think ‘enjoying’ is the right word. Awkwardly surviving? Maybe.” Zen arched a brow, the corners of his mouth twitching with amusement. “Awkward, huh? What’s awkward about mingling with a bunch of over-dressed people waiting to make power plays?” Rosalia rolled her eyes, stepping closer. “You’re forgetting the forced smiles, empty compliments, and the undercurrent of judgment in every conversation. It’s exhausting.” Zen chuckled softly, tilting his head

  • The Useless Son-In-law is a God of War   

    Chapter 82

    On the day of the gala, the Albrecht Estate was alive with energy. Cars lined up in a procession at the gates, with chauffeurs stepping out to open doors for the city’s elite. Inside the sprawling ballroom, the hum of conversation was only interrupted by the occasional clink of glasses or bursts of laughter. Waiters moved swiftly through the crowd, trays balanced, while the soft melody of a live quartet filled the air.Zen’s car pulled into the driveway, sleek and understated compared to the flashy limousines that preceded it. As he stepped out, two young attendants rushed forward. “Mr. Diel,” one said, bowing slightly. “Welcome to the gala. Let us guide you inside.” Zen adjusted his cuffs and gave a curt nod. “Lead the way.” The attendants escorted him through the grand entrance, where the doors opened to reveal the glittering scene inside. The air smelled faintly of expensive perfume and polished wood, every detail carefully curated to impress. Zen’s gaze scanned the room

  • The Useless Son-In-law is a God of War   

    Chapter 81

    Zen’s eyes opened slowly, adjusting to the soft morning light spilling through the window. He turned his head and spotted Keisha, sitting across the room with her arms folded, watching him with a casual smile. Her presence caught him off guard.“Morning, sleepyhead,” she said with a smirk.Zen blinked, then let out a sigh, rolling onto his back. “I overslept,” he muttered, a bit annoyed with himself. “Not like me at all.”Keisha raised an eyebrow, her smirk widening. “Even the mighty Zen has his off days, it seems.”Sitting up, he rubbed his eyes, then looked at her with suspicion. “How did you get in here? I lock my doors every night.”She held up a shiny key, dangling it between her fingers with a playful grin. “Spare key. Thought you’d remember I keep one.”Zen sighed, swinging his legs over the side of the bed. “Of course you do.” He ran a hand through his hair, then fixed her with a curious stare. “Since you’re here, Keisha… explain your schedule to me.”Keisha blinked, clearly t

  • The Useless Son-In-law is a God of War   

    Chapter 80

    The night was cool and crisp as Zen stepped onto the deck of his yacht, taking in the gentle sway of the water beneath him. The lights from the city reflected off the waves, casting shimmering patterns on the boat. Just ahead, leaning against the railing with a glass in hand, Sinclair turned, a grin spreading across his face as he spotted Zen approaching. “Thought you’d never make it,” Sinclair teased, raising his glass in greeting. Zen smirked, slipping his hands into his pockets. “Didn’t want to keep you waiting too long.” He looked around, taking in the luxurious setup. “But tell me, when are you finally going to get your own yacht, Sinclair? This ‘borrowing’ act is getting old.” Sinclair laughed, an easy, carefree sound. “Who says I don’t have my own?” he replied, eyes twinkling with mischief. “In fact, I have more yachts than a three-year-old can count. I just happen to like *this* one the best.” Zen raised an eyebrow, amusement flickering in his eyes. “So, you’re telling

  • The Useless Son-In-law is a God of War   

    Chapter 79

    Zen’s gaze locked onto Silas, his expression calm but his eyes flashing with a dangerous intensity. “So, this is how you like to handle things? Thought you’d finally stand up to someone, Silas?”Silas sneered, but there was a flicker of fear in his eyes. “You think you’re something cause you managed to pull a fast on me with pure luck—”Zen’s smirk widened. “I think we both know luck had nothing to do with it.” He took a step closer, hands relaxed at his sides, his presence radiating an authority that made everyone in the room hold their breath.“Stay back,” Silas snapped, his voice wavering as he tried to maintain his composure.Zen chuckled softly. “Oh, now you’re worried?”Silas glared, but his posture had shifted, more defensive than before. He glanced around, seeking support, but the others kept their eyes on the floor, unwilling to meet Zen’s gaze.“I don’t have time to play with you, Silas,” Zen murmured, his tone almost bored. “But maybe a quick reminder wouldn’t hurt.”He mov

  • The Useless Son-In-law is a God of War   

    Chapter 78

    “Tom!” Nia called out, drawing his attention, her voice sounding urgent. She didn’t even glance at Rosalia, who was standing beside him, her eyes fixed solely on Zen.Zen looked up, surprised to see her approaching. “Nia?” he asked, standing as she reached their table. “What happened?”Nia huffed, folding her arms across her chest as she tilted her head, clearly savoring the moment to vent. “You won’t believe what just happened,” she began, her tone laced with annoyance as she jerked her thumb back toward a waiter who was lingering nervously by the kitchen entrance, clearly aware he was in trouble. “That waiter back there? He decided to make a judgment call on my financial status. Apparently, my card didn’t go through, and he assumed I couldn’t pay.” She paused, letting out a short, sarcastic laugh. “He even suggested I… ‘pay’ another way. Like I’d be desperate enough to trade favors for dinner.”Zen’s face shifted from mild surprise to something much darker, his jaw tightening as he