I'm not sure whether or not our legal strategy worked, but they left me alone.
Maybe my book being published and becoming a national bestseller had something to do with it. The royalties I was getting more than covered for the advertising costs.
"What is this?" Grandpa asked, with suspicion, eyeing the check I handed him.
"It's the repayment for the loan you gave me," I said, "plus compensation for my living costs."
Grandpa wordlessly tore it up.
"Hey!" I protested. "I had to stand in queue this morning to get my checkbook issued."
That's right. I had enough money to warrant opening a bank account now. Actual cash. I was rich!
"Forget it," Grandpa said. "I've got no use for the money. And I'm giving you much more than that in your inheritance, anyway. Consider it an advance. It's no
