Chapter 160: Gift

Sophia must've picked up on my vibes and started gushing about me to her family, praising my thoughtfulness, hard work, and how the company values me.

I appreciated her kind words, but I knew I had to keep grinding, hoping that one day luck would be on my side and my dedication would pay off.

I looked forward to the day when Sophia's family would see my awesomeness without her having to say a word.

But back to reality, we had to keep the birthday vibes going. When the moment hit, Sophia turned down the lights, Emma rolled out the cake, and Joe blew out the candles on his 63rd. We all belted out "Happy Birthday," the lights flipped back on, and the room exploded with cheers.

Sophia shot me a look, and I got the message. So, I grabbed the carefully chosen gift from the cabinet by the door, a gift both Sophia and I adored.

Judging by their expressions, they were all eager to see what I got. Laura even had a pleased smile on her face.

Bob, on the other hand, seemed unimpressed, giving my gift box a side-eye that screamed, "Let's see what you've got."

I was pretty confident my gift would be a hit, especially since it was something Sophia and I both loved.

With a confident grin, I handed the gift box to Joe. "Dad, this is a little somethin' from Sophia and me. Hope you dig it—here's to your health and happiness!"

"Thanks! I'm sure I'll love it! But you two being lovey-dovey is the best gift," Joe replied warmly.

I figured he'd tear into it right then—it's kind of the unwritten rule with gifts—but he just set it aside. Maybe he wanted to open it later, so I didn't say anything.

As I eagerly awaited the other gifts, Bob prodded, "Dad, why not open it and show us?"

"It's a thoughtful gift, meant to be a surprise. Opening it in front of everyone kinda kills the vibe," Joe explained.

"We're all family here, no need to be shy. Plus, didn't you want me to learn from Kevin? How can I learn if you don't show us?" Bob persisted.

Emma chimed in, clapping her hands, adding to the excitement. Kids are always curious about gifts.

Joe chuckled at Emma's enthusiasm but still shook his head.

Ally joined in, saying all gifts should be opened to spread the joy.

Sophia agreed with Ally and looked at me, waiting for my input.

Feeling confident, I thought, "I'm not showing off, they all want to see." So, I suggested, "Dad, why not open it? It'll make everyone happy. Sophia and I are curious to see if you like it."

Encouraged by the group, Joe hesitated for a moment, then smiled and reluctantly agreed.

As he tore into the fancy wrapping, I could feel the excitement in the air. I was dead sure a crystal chess set as sharp as that was one of a kind—no way you'd find anything like it in the whole city.

"Wow, this international chess set is stunning!" Joe exclaimed, his face lighting up with excitement and joy.

Sophia delved into the details about the material and craftsmanship, highlighting how thoughtfully I had chosen it, while Laura praised me with a smile, playfully scolding me for splurging on such an extravagant gift.

"Carved from crystal! This is a masterpiece. I almost don't want to touch it!" Joe expressed, showing a hint of reluctance as he examined the chess pieces.

"I know you're a chess enthusiast, so I hope this chessboard helps you conquer every game and gain wisdom," I said, watching Joe's smile widen at my words.

"Now, my buddies will be lining up to challenge me in chess!" Joe exclaimed happily, dispelling any lingering doubts I had.

Sophia and I exchanged a proud glance, and I nudged Bob with my shoulder, saying, "Your turn!"

Bob shrugged, looking a bit sheepish. "Well, this is awkward. Our gifts are identical."

"You also got a chess set?" I asked, surprised.

Ally walked over with a gift box, about the same size but way heavier. She passed it to Bob, who placed it beside Joe.

"You got a chess set too!" I exclaimed in disbelief.

Bob's grin looked a little forced as he said, "Guess we were on the same page."

"Well, you still said you want to learn from Kevin. Looks like you nailed it," Joe shot back, keeping things light. When he figured out Bob and I had gone for the same gift, he didn't miss a beat—no sign of letdown at all.

"Dad, why don't you open it?" Bob suggested.

I was curious to see what lavish gift Bob, the wealthy man, had presented. My heart raced a bit.

"Alright, alright, I'll open it." Seizing the moment of Joe's delight, everyone encouraged him to unveil the gift.

As he opened it, the gleaming pieces made everyone wonder about the material of the chess set.

"Are these metal pieces?" Joe inquired, puzzled.

"These are chess pieces and board made of 24k gold, with gemstones embedded on the sides. I thought only this level of quality would match your chess prowess!" Bob explained, eagerly awaiting Joe's reaction.

Comparing the two sets, my crystal chess set indeed seemed lackluster.

While both sets shone brilliantly, it was evident that the gold chess set was equally meticulously crafted, featuring intricate classical engravings on the board.

Plus, it was bigger, flashier, and way more over-the-top. I couldn't help but feel a little off about it.

Deep down, I was kind of bummed. It felt like Bob was pulling his usual move—throwing his money around to show me up and knock me down a peg, again.

But Joe's response took everyone by surprise.