Chapter 56

"What? Timothy was late because he was busy preparing a gift for Cameron and Dakota?"

The crowd gasped. Madison was dumbfounded. She hadn't expected this. Why would Timothy side with Cameron?

"You seem unhappy with my answer," Timothy said quietly.

"No I'm not" Madison stammered, staring at him with a terrified gaze. She dared not rebel.

"Then sit down. Stop ruining the banquet," Timothy hissed.

"Yes, Mr. Dashner," Madison mumbled, slumping into her chair. Her mind raced; Archie, beside her, was speechless.

Silence fell. Everyone was frozen.

Timothy turned to Cameron and Dakota, his gaze softening. "I hope they didn't ruin your mood, Mr. Morgan, Ms. Jennings."

"No, not at all. Thank you, Mr. Dashner," Dakota replied, recovering from her shock. She knew the banquet wasn't for Madison, but she never expected Timothy to stand up for them—or to have prepared a gift.

"You're most welcome, Ms. Jennings," Timothy said, smiling and sighing with relief. He was glad they weren't upset.

His actions didn't escape Stella and the others; they gasped. Who was Cameron? Why was Timothy, a notorious figure in Yrando, treating him with such respect—and giving him a gift?

Timothy, however, felt no surprise. He even considered this hastily arranged banquet unworthy of Cameron.

He thought of the gift, his heart racing. Cars and mansions meant nothing to Cameron; he'd worked hard to find something unique. He was sure Cameron would be pleased.

"Mr. Morgan, Ms. Jennings, I have prepared a gift for you," Timothy announced confidently.

"Thank you," Dakota said, suppressing her excitement. Cameron simply nodded.

Timothy waved and shouted to the men outside, "Bring the gift in! Be careful!"

"Yes, Mr. Dashner!" they replied.

Six sweating men entered carrying a huge trolley covered in a white cloth. The gift appeared to be nine feet tall and five feet wide.

Everyone was curious. Cameron raised an eyebrow. Was it so heavy it needed six men?

Under everyone's gaze, Timothy ordered the cloth removed. Cameron's eyes widened; the corners of his mouth twitched. Dakota's cheeks flushed.

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