Chapter 653: Farewell Banquet

Felix Thorne’s face darkened. He snapped at Phoebe Huxley, "What nonsense are you talking about!"

Phoebe Huxley huffed and ignored him. Felix Thorne felt awkward and rubbed his nose, falling silent. As for whether Phoebe Huxley’s name was on the deed, he hadn’t really given it much thought. If it was, it was; he didn’t care. He was just mad that his second son had assumed the worst of him and even embarrassed him in public.

The employee was also amused by this family. The woman handling their case finished stamping the documents and smiled at Phoebe Huxley. "You have a good son!"

Phoebe Huxley grinned, her face full of satisfaction. ’I have more than one good son—I have four!’

THWACK, THWACK, THWACK. After several official seals were stamped and fingerprints were pressed, the new property deed was ready. Phoebe Huxley gazed at the brand-new deed in her hands, the bright red seals, and her own name. Her heart thrilled, her hands trembled. It felt like a dream, too wonderful to be true.

’From now on, I’m a city person too!’

Phoebe Huxley suddenly remembered something important. "Ma’am, with this deed, can we apply for a commodity grain household registration?"

"Yes, take this deed to the household registration department. Your whole family can get their commodity grain status," the employee replied with a smile.

Phoebe Huxley grew even more excited. Her breath came in short gasps, and she felt light-headed, so unsteady she could barely stand.

She used to be so envious of the city dwellers who received commodity grain. They didn’t have to work in the fields every day and even received dozens of pounds of fixed grain rations each month. Life was so much better than in the countryside. ’And now, I’ll be a city person too.’

Professor Jacobs said his goodbyes. He had already handed over the keys and bought his train ticket; he would be heading home that afternoon.

"Is your train this afternoon? Let me see you off," Patrick Thorne offered.

"No need, it’s just one suitcase, and it’s very light," Professor Jacobs replied with a hearty laugh.

But Patrick Thorne insisted on seeing him off. Phoebe Huxley also chimed in, "Professor Jacobs, if you don’t mind, please have lunch with us. My treat. A farewell meal for you."

Felix Thorne joined in the invitation. It was an offer too gracious to refuse, so Professor Jacobs agreed. His train was at three in the afternoon, so there was still plenty of time for a meal.

There was a restaurant near the middle school. Phoebe Huxley picked one called Peach Blossom Spring; it looked quite upscale.

The Thorne family insisted Professor Jacobs order first. They had a deep, heartfelt respect for teachers, especially one from Vessaria Middle School. After all, those teachers were all university graduates.

Professor Jacobs was quite pleased. He had an excellent impression of the Thorne family. They might have looked a bit rough around the edges, but you couldn’t judge a book by its cover. The Thornes were polite and respectful, and they honored teachers—a quality that put them above many others.

He ordered two dishes, one meat and one vegetable. Phoebe Huxley, being quite generous, added several more meat dishes. She had brought plenty of money and grain coupons today, enough to make a splash.

Once the food arrived, Professor Jacobs was also impressed with the Thorne family’s table manners, especially the chubby little girl. She was quite endearing—clean, fair, and plump, looking cleaner and cuter than many city children.

"I hear you’re planning to attend Vessaria Middle School," Professor Jacobs said, initiating the conversation.

Patrick Thorne nodded.

Professor Jacobs encouraged him, "Vessaria Middle School has produced many outstanding talents. Once you get into Vessaria, getting into a university is practically guaranteed. However, the entrance exam is quite difficult. Are you confident?"

"I am. I’ll definitely get in," Patrick Thorne said with conviction.

’He had to get in.’

Professor Jacobs was even more gratified, though also a bit regretful. It was a pity he was transferring and wouldn’t be able to teach this boy. But still—

"If you get in, write me a letter and let me know. I have many old colleagues at the school. I’ll ask them to look out for you," Professor Jacobs promised. He genuinely admired Patrick Thorne; he was a promising talent.