Responsible Spending

Tonrie, lounging in his hotel room, leaned against the headboard as he conversed with his Settlement Accountant, absorbing her advice with rapt attention.

"And remember Mr. Aklas," the accountant reiterated sternly through the phone line, "The most crucial thing is to keep this information confidential. If word leaks about your sudden financial windfall, expect people, known and unknown, coming out of the woodwork with tales of woe, seeking a piece of your settlement. I've seen this scenario play out countless times before."

Tonrie's eyebrows furrowed in serious contemplation, recognizing the gravity of the situation. "Got it," he responded, his voice determined.

"Again. Don't. Tell. Anyone!" The admonition was firm before she disconnected the call, leaving Tonrie to mull over the weight of her advice in solitude.

---

Tonrie knocked rapidly until Dash swung his dormitory door open, revealing an ecstatic Tonrie.