Henry understood that Avery was a loving and responsible mother, very wise. She wasn't unaware of Jason's changes or tolerating them out of vanity. She was primarily concerned about the impact of a marital breakup on the family, especially the child, which deeply moved Henry. If his parents had half her love and responsibility, he wouldn't have been abandoned.
He didn't resent the hardships of the remote village; his foster parents were kind to him. Seeing Avery's love for her son made Henry even more puzzled by his parents' actions. Because of this, he wasn't in a hurry to meet Cole and his wife. He needed to think and strive, and only after achieving a certain status and wealth would he consider accepting his biological parents.
Avery's other reason for not leaving Jason was the realization that the men attracted to her current status and position might have ulterior motives. Jason was originally genuine, but those now interested in her were likely not. Her marriage and family deterred many. If she became single, the chances of finding true happiness were slim, likely leading from one bad situation to another.
As a female leader, a stable marriage and family were crucial for career advancement. Divorced women, whether in the workplace or in politics, were often viewed differently.
Henry nodded, "No problem. You can tell him whatever you want. I'll fully cooperate."
"Thank you, brother. One more thing," Avery said, "Although the bar business is legitimate, the clientele is complex, often causing unnecessary trouble. If you want to start a business, I suggest something simpler. Don't be offended, but being fresh out of prison and entering this industry isn't good for you."
Henry smiled, "Don't worry, I'll be careful."
Avery patted Henry's shoulder and reminded him, "Be careful with Erick. He's extorting Jason, supposedly to deal with you."
Henry nodded, "I understand. Big sister, I'm leaving."
Avery nodded.
Leaving the office, Henry felt a mix of emotions. Avery's love for her son warmed him, but the scenario he imagined didn't happen, leaving him slightly disappointed. He had fantasized about taking Avery to Victoria's house tonight, but now that hope was dashed, increasing his desire for a woman.
Emily's image flashed in his mind, but he knew they had a long way to go, and their future together was uncertain. Isabelle, once within reach, might become his future sister-in-law. Victoria was available but not appealing.
Thinking it over, Avery seemed the closest and most likely to fulfill his needs. Since he didn't make a move today, he decided to focus on her son. If he became friends with her son, everything else might follow naturally.
Just then, he received a call from Emily.
Emily had gone to the bar and collected nearly 200,000 yuan from Brandon, leaving her nervous.
"Henry," Emily asked on the phone, "Is it normal for a bar to make so much in one night?"
Henry explained, "That's two days' revenue, including the afternoon and evening sessions."
"That's still a lot," Emily said. "I mean, with such high revenue, Erick wouldn't give it up easily. Henry, can I give you some advice? We're ordinary people; this business isn't for us. You should return it."
Henry laughed, "You've been teaching at the university since graduation and haven't experienced society. Many businesses make this much daily. Even a large hotel can surpass this. Remember, this isn't pure profit. There are many expenses and several shareholders, so the money isn't as much as you think."
Emily said, "I still feel uneasy."
"Don't," Henry said. "I won't stop at one bar. I'll expand, and when the time is right, I want you to quit your job and manage all my businesses."
Henry's words hinted at a lifelong partnership with Emily, which she couldn't miss. But her focus was on the 200,000 yuan in her bag, making her uneasy.
"We'll talk about the future later," Emily said. "I hope you think it over."
"Okay. By the way, it's only four o'clock. Why..."
"Oh, you told me to deposit the money. Banks close early, so I came early. I didn't expect this much."
"Go ahead and deposit it."
"Okay."
Emily walked into the bank, looking more like a thief than someone depositing money.
Seeing it was still early and there was no immediate issue at the bar, Henry hailed a taxi to Andrew's house to get his clothes. As he got out, two policemen approached.
"Henry?"
"Yes."
"Please come with us to the precinct."
Henry recognized them from when they had accompanied Matthew and Ella to the bar.