Unmasking Mrs. Newton's Secret Identities novel Chapter 1312

To keep things fair, both the old man and the boy agreed to write the same phrase: "Hard work pays off."

Before long, they had completed their calligraphy pieces and displayed them side by side in the most prominent spot on the stall. To draw in more passersby, they cut the prices in half.

A few minutes later, a young man passing by decided to purchase the elderly man's calligraphy.

The old man's face lit up with joy as he claimed the boy's piece of cake, reveling in his win. "Now this cake is all mine! Haha!"

The little boy hung his head in disappointment, wrapping his arms tightly around himself. His cheeks puffed out in frustration, clearly feeling the sting of defeat.

Helen's lips curved into a slight smile as she stepped forward and gently ruffled the boy's hair. "Come on, sir, is it really fair to take advantage of a child at your age?" she asked, stepping in to defend him.

The old man clasped his hands, hiding the cake behind him. A smile spread across his face as he replied, "It's a challenge we both agreed to. How is that unfair? If you're not satisfied, why not help him win it back?"

The boy wanted to speak up at first, but after meeting the old man's gaze, he thought better of it and chose to stay silent.

In this modern world, it appeared that some people used their age as an excuse for unjust behavior, believing they were entitled to act that way simply because of their seniority.

Nonetheless, Helen wasn't about to let that go unchecked. "Alright then, let's have a competition."

"Really?" The old man's interest was piqued as he stroked his white beard. There was a playful glint in his eye. "If you lose, you'll have to buy me two more pieces of cake."

"Even if you asked for a whole cake, it wouldn't be a problem," Helen replied confidently. "Let's do this!"

"Alright!" the old man exclaimed enthusiastically, setting the cake aside. He quickly picked up a brush and began to write the word "Endurance".

As Helen stepped closer to assess his work, she couldn't help but nod in approval. "Your brushwork is dynamic and fluid; it's truly a beautiful piece."

The old man tilted his head back, proudly stroking his beard. "Now it's your turn."

Helen's strokes were bold and assured, reflecting the skill of a true expert. Even someone as talented as Iris would find it challenging to surpass this.

The old man stared at Helen in disbelief, amazed that a young woman could wield such exceptional calligraphy skills. Even with his advanced age, he felt he could only aspire to reach her level.

Her talent was as remarkable as her appearance—truly a gift from heaven.

Helen smiled at his reaction and teased, "So, what do you think of my calligraphy? Can we trade it for that piece of cake?"

The old man snapped back to attention, nodding eagerly. "Of course! Young lady—no, I mean, miss—I am Augustine Crawford. May I have your name?"

"Helen Spencer."

"Ms. Spencer, it's a pleasure to meet you," Augustine said, nodding thoughtfully. Nonetheless, he couldn't recall any notable calligrapher in the country with that last name.