My Son Made Fun of My New Husband, Thinking He Was Just a ‘Poor Old Man’ – Turns Out He Was a Billionaire!
“Because while I struggled to survive, cleaning floors in buildings that were yours, you had all this power, all this wealth. It feels… I don’t know… disproportionate.”
Robert nodded thoughtfully.
“I understand that feeling. Inequality in the world is brutal and unfair. That’s why I do what I do—the foundations, the hospital, the housing programs. I try to use my privilege to create opportunities for others. But you’re right, it will never be enough. I can never completely compensate for the injustice of the system.”
“And Jason?” I asked, finally voicing the question that had been haunting my mind all day. “What happens with him?”
Robert sighed.
“Charles has been monitoring the situation. Apparently, your son and Tiffany are having some serious financial problems. They have been living beyond their means for years. They have massive debts, and now, after what happened yesterday, some of their business partners are distancing themselves from them.”
“How do you know all that?” I asked, surprised.
“Because I asked for them to be investigated,” Robert admitted. “Not to hurt them, but to understand the full situation. And what we discovered is worrying. Barbara, your son is on the brink of bankruptcy. He owes money to many dangerous people.”
I felt my stomach twist.
“How bad is the situation?”
“Very bad. He owes close to $2 million between bank loans, credit cards, and failed investments. And some of his creditors aren’t exactly patient… or legal.”
My heart sank. Despite everything Jason had done to me, he was still my son. The idea that he was in danger terrified me.
“$2 million,” I repeated, feeling panic begin to take over. “How is it possible he owes so much money?”
Robert took my hand.
“According to Charles’s investigation, Jason invested in several fraudulent businesses. He bought stocks in shell companies. He borrowed money at usurious rates to maintain his luxurious lifestyle. And Tiffany didn’t help. She spends as if money were unlimited. Designer bags, jewelry, trips to Europe—all on credit cards that are already maxed out.”
I brought my hands to my face.
“My God. And here I am with access to millions while my son is sinking in debt.”
“Barbara, look at me.” Robert lifted my chin gently so our eyes met. “Your son humiliated you publicly. He called you horrible things. He ruined the most important day of your life. And he did it when he thought I had nothing to offer you. Do you really believe he deserves your compassion after that?”
“He’s my son,” I whispered, tears starting to fall again. “I know he treated me horribly. I know he was cruel. But he’s still my son, Robert. I can’t just turn off those feelings.”
Robert nodded with understanding.
“I know, and I’m not asking you to. But you need to understand something. If you give him money now, if you rescue Jason from this situation, he will never learn. He will never face the consequences of his actions. And most importantly, he will never truly value your sacrifice.”
“But you said some of his creditors are dangerous. What if they hurt him? What if they hurt Tiffany, or worse, my grandchildren?”
“The kids are safe,” Robert assured. “Charles already took care of that. We hired discreet security to watch them. No one will touch Mason or Harper. I promise you.”
That information gave me some relief, but the knot in my stomach wouldn’t disappear.
“And Jason? Are you watching him too?”
“Yes. And here is where things get interesting.” Robert leaned back in his chair. His expression became more serious. “Three days ago, Jason found out who I really am. A partner of his showed him a Forbes article where I appear on the list of the richest men in Latin America.”
My heart stopped.
“And what did he do?”
“At first, he didn’t believe it. He thought it was a coincidence of names. But then he looked up photos and recognized me. Since that moment, he has tried to contact me 12 times. Calls, messages, emails—all through my company’s official channels.”
“And what did you do?”
“Nothing. I ignored every attempt. But Charles saved all the messages. Do you want to hear what they said?”
I wasn’t sure I wanted to know, but I nodded anyway. Robert took out his phone and began to read.
“First message: ‘Mr. Robert Sterling, I am very sorry for the misunderstanding at the wedding. I didn’t know who you were. Please allow me to explain.’”
He paused and looked at me.
“Notice how he says he regrets the misunderstanding, not his actions. As if the problem was that he didn’t know I was rich.”
He continued reading.
“Second message: ‘Sir, I am Jason, Barbara’s son. I need to speak urgently with you about a business matter. I have a proposal that could be mutually beneficial.’”
Robert let out a bitter laugh.
“He doesn’t even mention his mother. He goes straight to asking for business favors.”
“Third message,” He continued reading. “This one was sent last night: ‘Mr. Sterling, I am going through a complicated financial situation. As your wife’s son, I hoped we could speak as family. I am sure we can reach an agreement that benefits everyone, especially Mom.’”
I felt nauseous.
“Is he using my name to manipulate you?”
“Exactly. And there is more. Message number seven: ‘Mr. Robert, I know I made mistakes at the wedding. I was drunk and wasn’t thinking clearly. But I am Barbara’s only son. The grandchildren she adores are my children. Do you really want to break that family relationship? I can make her happy if you help me solve my current problems.’”
“That is emotional blackmail,” I said, feeling rage begin to replace concern.
