I’m a self-made man. I worked my way up from nothing, built a successful business, and made sure my son, Ethan, had a comfortable life. But if there’s one thing I can’t stand, it’s **gold diggers.**

So when Ethan told me he was engaged to Julia, a sweet girl from a wealthy family, I felt… cautious. I wasn’t worried about Julia—I was worried about **her** parents.

Ethan assured me they were wonderful, but I wanted to see their **true colors.**

So, I came up with a plan.

I **faked being broke.**

Instead of arriving in my usual tailored suit and luxury car, I showed up for our first meeting in **ragged clothes, worn-out sneakers, and carrying an old duffel bag.** I even took the **bus** to their estate, making sure to arrive a little late and out of breath.

**Julia’s parents, Richard and Diane, took one look at me… and their expressions soured.**

Diane barely hid her disgust as she forced a smile. “Oh… you must be Ethan’s father. How… nice.”

Richard just sighed. “Ethan, son, you should’ve told us. We could have sent a car.”

I grinned. “Oh, I don’t mind public transportation! Good way to meet people. Plus, keeps me humble.”

Their discomfort was **palpable.**

Dinner was even worse. I “accidentally” let slip that I had lost my job, was struggling to make rent, and was hoping Ethan could help me out financially.

Diane nearly choked on her wine.

Richard cleared his throat and leaned forward. **“Listen, Ethan… marriage is a partnership. And partnerships need to be equal. Julia was raised in a certain lifestyle… and we were hoping she’d marry someone who could provide the same.”**

Translation: **My son wasn’t good enough if his father was broke.**

But the best part? **Julia didn’t agree.**

She shot her parents a look. **“Dad, Mom, stop. I love Ethan, not his bank account.”**

Richard scoffed. “Love doesn’t pay the bills, sweetheart.”

I watched the whole exchange, quietly enjoying every second.

Then, just as dessert was served, I **dropped the act.**

I pulled out my phone, clicked a few buttons, and **transferred $200,000** to Ethan in front of them.

Diane gasped. “Wh-what are you doing?”

I smirked. **“Oh, just giving my son some ‘help’—since I’m supposedly broke.”**

Then, I leaned back, folded my hands, and said, **“By the way, I own one of the biggest tech firms in the city. Hope that’s not a problem.”**

**The silence was deafening.**

Richard’s face turned red. Diane looked ready to pass out.

Ethan burst out laughing. **Julia did, too.**

I stood up, stretched, and patted Richard’s back. **“See you all at Christmas! Can’t wait for the beach house.”**

They **never** judged me again.