Chapter 28

A smile, neither self-important nor self-abasing, spread across Severin's face.

"This guy is Mr. Henry's friend? That's impossible!"

"For God's sake, that kid was invited to dine with Mr. Henry? Even we aren't worthy!"

Several wealthy businessmen were dumbfounded. Some even wondered if they were dreaming.

"How does he know Mr. Henry?" George, head of the Shanahans, frowned.

Everyone present had been trying to cultivate a relationship with the powerful Henry, without success. Severin, however, seemed to be on such friendly terms that Henry had taken the initiative to treat him to a meal!

Henry turned to Lucy. "Aren't you Severin's ex-fiancée? Shouldn't you return the dowry now that you're marrying someone else? And $150,000 seems excessive, wouldn't you say?"

Trevor immediately smiled. "R-r-right! We'll return the money to Severin!" Even the Draco Hall people couldn't afford to offend Henry; it was unthinkable for the Loughs to risk it. Moreover, Henry's use of Severin's first name hinted at a close relationship.

Severin, however, said, "Hehe, why should they refund the money? The Orwells took it; the responsibility falls on them!"

Helga's face turned purple with anger. Returning the money was worse than anything.

Landon, fearing she would offend Henry, quickly pulled her back. They were in no position to refuse; it would be like slapping Henry in the face. He smiled at Severin. "Could I have your account number? I'll have someone transfer the funds."

Severin smiled faintly. "Sorry, I prefer cash. Your family accused me of being impoverished; since I haven't seen much money lately, I want it all in cash. It'll be nice and comforting under my bed!"

"You're kidding…" Landon gritted his teeth. Severin was clearly making things difficult; withdrawing that much cash would require a trip to the bank.

Charmaine, watching from the side, was amused. He'd refused $150,000 from her grandfather for saving his life, yet now demanded a larger sum in cash. It clearly showed he was doing this to annoy the Orwells.

"Fine. Cash it is! We'll get it for you!" Lucy, red with anger, glared at Severin before leaving with Landon.

"You have one hour. If it's not ready, I won't go easy on your family!" Severin watched her storm off. "Leave it at the front desk. I'm dining with Mr. Henry; I won't have time to count, but I'll make life difficult for you if it's short by a single dollar!"

Lucy, walking down the stairs, flew into such a rage that she accidentally sprained her foot.

"Ahhhh!" she cried out in pain, removing her high heels. She glared at Severin before leaving.

After they left, Henry smiled. "Shall we dine together now, Severin?"

Severin approached Diane and took her hand. Surprised, she tried to pull away, but he held on firmly.

He led Diane to Henry and Charmaine. "Mr. Henry, Miss Charmaine, this is my wife. May she join us?"

Henry laughed. "Of course! You have excellent taste, Severin. She's famously known as one of Brookbourn's most beautiful women!"

(The promotional text at the end has been removed as requested.)