Several people waited outside The Gourmand, queuing to enter the restaurant. They were discussing the Blithe King when James spoke. His words elicited titters from the crowd.

"The Diamond Room? Looks like the Callahans' son-in-law is good at something after all—boasting!"

"He's a nobody! He can't even afford a car. Remember how he used to pick Thea up from work on an electric motorcycle? If he can't afford a car, how can he afford the Diamond Room?"

"Rumor has it that money isn't enough to get into the Diamond Room. The Gourmand's owner comes from a prominent Capital family—true upper class. Hardly anyone in Cansington can secure a reservation."

"Not even The Great Four."

Their laughter angered Gladys, who turned on James.

"You idiot! Haven't you done enough?"

"Hush, Jamie," Thea said, placing a hand on him. A Cansington native, she understood The Gourmand's history and the Diamond Room's significance. "Chad, where's your silver member card? Show it to these people."

Felicia sniffed disdainfully at Gladys, who paled. Felicia's delight was evident.

Chad produced a gleaming white card with a silver VIP stamp.

"Wow, a silver member card! I've never seen one!"

"The Wilsons live up to their reputation. Apparently, you need to spend a million dollars at The Gourmand for a silver card; ten million for gold. The diamond card is priceless, given only by the owner."

"As if he wasn't already handsome and dashing, Chad Wilson is rich and young too! Whoever marries him is lucky!"

Felicia preened, while Gladys's unhappiness intensified. James's question had embarrassed her again.

"Let's just go, you idiots," Gladys snapped.

Under admiring glances, Felicia and Chad entered The Gourmand. Before disappearing inside, she sneered, "Ten percent of Eternality? All of Cansington knows Benjamin Callahan is useless. A useless husband, an ugly daughter, and a useless son-in-law. Hilarious!"

The Callahans paled, Gladys most of all. Reputation meant everything to her. Thea hid behind James.

Hurried footsteps approached. A tall, handsome man in his twenties, wearing a white shirt, strode toward them.

"Oh my God, it's Bryan Grayson, The Gourmand's owner!"

"He's so low-key yet commanding."

"I heard he's from the Capital. Since opening The Gourmand, he's rarely appeared. Nobody knows anything about him."

Several women swooned. This was true wealth and power—far beyond The Great Four. Bryan, having received a call, saw Emily Wilkins (mistaking her for Thea) and bowed respectfully.

"My apologies. I've kept you waiting too long. The Diamond Room is ready. This way, please."

Stunned silence fell over the crowd.

"The Wilsons are incredible. Even the owner greets them personally."