Jacob looked overwhelmed as he sprang to his feet, exclaiming in surprise, "Oh, Mr. Ahmed! Your Oskian is so fluent!"

Hamed smiled. "I've been in Oskia for a long while on business. I'm basically a friend of the nation!"

Hamed naturally avoided saying that he studied in Oskia, or he'd have to lie more if they pressed the issue.

Still, Jacob nodded. "Nice to meet you, Mr. Ahmed. I'm Jacob Wilson—Charlie's father-in-law!"

Elaine hurried over right then. "I'm Elaine. Charlie's mother-in-law."