"Xara?"

"The Xara who associated with the Callahans' disreputable live-in son-in-law?"

"Who is she with?"

"Scarlett?"

"The Scarlett who bought the entire Transgenerational Group?"

The noisy living room fell silent. Scarlett's name and reputation had been widespread in Cansington ever since she acquired the Transgenerational Group. She was a figure at the pinnacle of power. Wealthy families paled in comparison.

"What's going on, Thea? Isn't that Xara? Why is she with Scarlett? That's the new owner and chairman of the Transgenerational Group," David whispered. Thea shook her head. "How would I know?"

Scarlett entered, her beautiful eyes scanning the room. Those who met her gaze held their breath. Murmurs rippled through the crowd.

"Which big shot did the Callahans curry favor with?"

"How is the new owner of the Transgenerational Group even here?"

"I never expected the legendary Scarlett, who purchased the Transgenerational Group, to be so beautiful."

Lex was stunned. "How is this possible?" He hadn't invited Scarlett. Why had she come?

He momentarily stunned, then straightened. He enjoyed the envious stares of the crowd and approached Scarlett with a smile, drawing everyone's attention. "Ms. Brooks, I wasn't expecting you. Please, have a seat."

Scarlett glared at him. "Lex, who gave you permission to hold your birthday party at the House of Royals?"

Silence descended again. The unspoken question hung in the air: She doesn't seem to be here to celebrate his birthday. Lex, stunned, replied, "Ms. Brooks, the General gave me permission."

He glanced toward Chase and his secretary, Yoke, who sat nearby.

"Oh?" Scarlett snorted and approached Chase. Lex, bewildered, followed. Many VIPs watched Scarlett, whispering amongst themselves.

"What's going on?"

"She doesn't seem to be here to celebrate. It looks like she's here to confront someone."

"Could it be that the House of Royals belongs to Scarlett?"

"Yeah."

"A good show is about to begin."

Scarlett stood before Chase, her glare unwavering, showing no deference to his rank. "Did you give him permission?"

"Huh?" Chase was as confused as everyone else. He didn't recognize her, but he knew about the Transgenerational Group. As a general, he had access to inside information; he knew someone had used their influence to force the Five Provinces Business Alliance to sell it.

Scarlett calmly asked, word by word, "Lex said you permitted him to celebrate his birthday here. Who gave you the right?" Chase was taken aback. What did this have to do with him?

He glanced at Lex. "Mr. Callahan, what is the meaning of this?"

Lex stammered, "General Nolan, didn't you permit me to use the venue?"

"I have no idea what you're talking about." Chase was stunned. What does this have to do with me?

(The final promotional sentence has been removed as it is not part of the text to be cleaned.)