Chapter - 5947

Charlie's remarks prompted nods of agreement from the guests surrounding him.

While it is natural to safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of a group, utilizing various subtle propaganda methods to significantly increase that group's numbers alters the situation entirely.

Tawanna has consistently been a strong proponent of this approach, and it would not be an exaggeration to describe her as the leading figure in this movement.

Previously, many believed that her concerns were solely for the well-being of this group. However, when viewed from a different perspective, it becomes evident that she is fanning the flames, actively seeking to expand this group. It remains uncertain what her true intentions are.

Even Mitsui Yoshitaka couldn't help but absentmindedly stroke his chin, a look of contemplation etched on his face.

At that moment, his wife turned to their daughter, Mitsui Shinmi, and asked, "Shimi, is it really possible in the United States for minors to undergo gender change surgery without parental consent?"

Mitsui Shinmi thought for a moment before replying softly, "Ogasan, I've indeed heard some similar news. Some states in the U.S. seem to have laws regarding this."

Her mother reacted with disbelief, exclaiming, "What kind of law permits such a thing? Minors are still children and lack full capacity to act. Significant decisions must involve guardian approval. If children truly wish to undergo such surgery, they can wait until they reach adulthood to decide! What could compel someone to hastily make such a major, irreversible decision for a child? It's utterly unreasonable!"

Mitsui Shinmi shook her head, confusion evident, and responded, "I can't say what their motives are, but you are right. What Mr. Wade said is quite reasonable. For such a serious matter, individuals should make decisions when they are fully capable, rather than being rushed into choices and actions."

Mitsui Shinmi's mother added vehemently, "I simply cannot comprehend why an idol can neglect her responsibilities while openly endorsing these issues daily. It is essential we address this. While we have no control over how she promotes in her own country, she must not advocate for such ideas here in Japan, Tokyo, or at events hosted by the Mitsui family. If Japanese teenagers are influenced by her and make decisions they regret for life, the Mitsui family will share in that responsibility!"

Mitsui Shinmi hesitated, saying, "I'll find an opportunity to discuss it with her later."

Her mother, rarely adopting a slightly reproachful tone, emphasized, "Shinmei, as the eldest daughter of the Mitsui family, you need to be mindful of your influence. It's best not to associate closely with certain individuals in public. Your father and I haven't supported any group in recent years and have intentionally distanced ourselves from any movements. The world is full of uncertainties. We may maintain our reputation, but those around us cannot always do the same. In the past two years, numerous similar issues have surfaced in the United States. Many so-called social elites have turned out to be morally corrupt. If you unwittingly become associated with such individuals, their exposure could negatively impact you, and in turn, the Mitsui family could also suffer."

Mitsui Shinmi bowed her head in shame and replied, "Ogasan, I understand your concerns. I will be more careful from now on and limit my interactions with public figures."

At this point, Trevor was taken aback by the direction of the discussion and found himself momentarily speechless. Tawanna, on the other hand, appeared slightly flustered.

Noticing Trevor's silence, Tawanna decided to press on, saying, "Mr. Wade, I think this reflects a cultural divide between East and West. In the U.S., hardly anyone shares your viewpoint."

As she spoke, she realized her defense was weak and sought to wrap up the conversation. "Mr. Wade, we really don't need to debate this any further. You have your opinions, and I have mine. I stand in support of LGBT rights, and whether you choose to do the same is entirely up to you. I can't force you to agree with me. I think it's best we stop discussing this. What's your take?"

At this point, Tawanna regretted her decision to challenge Charlie. She had already received verbal support from Claire and Loreen, and Trevor had captured the moment on video, which should have sufficed. She had no need to provoke Charlie further and ended up embarrassing herself in front of so many people.

Seeing Tawanna actively trying to de-escalate the situation, Mitsui Yoshitaka quickly stepped in as a peacemaker. "The exchange between you two has been quite enlightening, but with today's performance coming up soon, I believe it's best for you both to refrain from further discussion. Mr. Wade, what do you think?"

Charlie shrugged and smiled nonchalantly, replying, "As the guest, I'll honor the host's wishes. Since Mr. Mitsui suggests this, I will gladly comply."

Tawanna let out a sigh of relief. She glanced over at Trevor, who was quietly putting away his phone, which helped ease her anxiety.

Unexpectedly, Charlie turned to Trevor and said calmly, "If I'm not mistaken, sir, you must have recorded the entire exchange, correct?"

Trevor quickly shook his head and protested, "No, no! I was just reading the news on my phone and didn't record anything."

Charlie smiled and said, "That's fine. What I want to point out is that if you did record it, and you're considering posting it online, I kindly ask that you do two things. First, share the entire conversation without editing it, as cutting it would misrepresent the context; second, neither I nor the two ladies accompanying me are public figures, so when you post the video, please blur our faces. Video-sharing platforms now come with AI tools that make this easy to accomplish. As for Miss Sweet, that's your choice whether to blur or not."

Trevor paused for a moment, nodded slowly, and replied, "Understood, Mr. Wade."

Charlie offered a slight smile and said nothing further.

Meanwhile, Mitsui Yoshitaka's assistant approached him and whispered, "Sir, Miss Joules has arrived at the venue."

Mitsui Yoshitaka's eyes lit up, and he declared, "Let's head to the entrance to greet Miss Joules."

He then motioned for his wife and daughter to join him.

As for Charlie and Tawanna, Mitsui Yoshitaka hesitated briefly, unsure whether to invite one of them or both to greet Michaela together.

Given the recent tension between them, he felt it might be inappropriate for either to disrespect the other in front of Michaela.

After considering it carefully, he chose to invite Charlie, as Michaela’s visit was primarily due to him and his friends, someone she genuinely cared about.

He turned to Charlie, Claire, and Loreen, suggesting, "If you three are willing, why don't we go to the entrance to wait for Miss Joules?"

"Okay." Charlie nodded slightly. Although he normally wouldn't need to personally greet Michaela, her unexpected appearance was a sign of respect, and he felt compelled to reciprocate.

Mitsui Yoshitaka then turned to Tawanna and Trevor, apologetically saying, "Please bear with us for a moment, esteemed guests. I will introduce you to Miss Joules shortly."

Tawanna understood full well that Charlie was a friend of Michaela's, while she was not. It would be awkward for her to insert herself into the situation, so she nodded and smiled, "No problem, Mr. Mitsui. We'll wait here."

As Mitsui Yoshitaka and Charlie walked out, Tawanna quickly turned to Trevor and instructed, "Dear, edit the video you just recorded, only keep the two ladies in front, and cut out the part with Mr. Wade."

Trevor frowned thoughtfully and replied, "Oh, alright."

In his mind, he was already plotting his course of action.

Tawanna, unaware of Trevor's ulterior motives, grumbled, "That Wade guy is really too much. He had the audacity to refute me using the issue of illegal immigration. It's completely unreasonable! He kept making arguments that had my mind spinning, and I couldn't think of how to respond. I just wonder what the Japanese will think of me."

Trevor, almost unconsciously, replied, "I think what he said was quite reasonable..."

"What did you say?!" Tawanna's eyes widened in incredulity. "You mean he's correct? So my perspective is wrong?!"

Trevor nodded, stating seriously, "I truly believe he has a point. We can support sexual minorities, but we really shouldn't push for such publicity. Aggressive promotion can lead many young people to view it as a trend..."

He continued, "I thought about it, and it's like when I was a kid. I didn't grasp the meaning behind tattoos, but the popular athletes and hip-hop stars I admired had these cool tattoos, and I thought they were the greatest thing ever. All I wanted was to have large, impressive tattoos on my arms and legs. My mother forbade it, but I was determined and went to a tattoo shop. However, the owner, seeing I was a minor without a guardian, turned me away. So, could what we are doing parallel that effect on some minors regarding gender reassignment?"

"Consider this: we're advocating for minors with gender dysphoria to undergo gender reassignment surgery. Isn't that akin to my desire for a tattoo? Tattoos require parental consent, so why is it that surgery can bypass that? It's illogical! I've been reflecting on this just now..."

Tawanna felt a sense of betrayal wash over her and shouted angrily, "We've been together for so long! I flew all over the U.S. for you, and now you’re turning your back on me to side with some stranger?!"

Trevor, feeling awkward, replied, "I naturally have feelings for you, but rationally, I think he is more correct..."

Tawanna shot him a cold look and said, "Fine, Trevor, just shut up! I don't want to hear your excuses! When you've sorted out your thoughts, come back and talk to me!"