Chapter 172

Keith Jackman barely touched Gregory’s hand. "Let's not jump the gun. It's not a done deal."

Marianne Jackman, dripping with disdain and flashing expensive jewelry, chimed in, "Exactly. My son might not even like your daughter. We're only here out of courtesy to Gregory—business associates, after all." The Jackmans, entertainment moguls with holdings in real estate and cosmetics, were far wealthier and more powerful than the Sullivans. They owned factories, producing their own brand and acting as an OEM for others. Gregory, a minor business partner, only gained their attention after the Sullivans’ sudden rise, fueled by rumored Vanderbilt connections.

Gregory swallowed his frustration, guiding them to their seats. Keith snorted. "Now that we're all here, let's have the kids meet."

Marianne eyed Brittany critically. "Decent-looking, but too thin. Will she even bear children?" Her son, thrice-married and childless, was the focus of her concern. "Son, what do you think?"

Baron’s gaze lingered on Brittany’s chest. "She'll do. I can give it a shot."

Brittany, uncomfortable, tugged at Christina’s sleeve. "Mom, what are they talking about?"

Christina, equally disgusted, forced a smile. "This is my younger daughter. Paisley, your son’s intended, isn’t here yet."

Keith exploded. "What's this? You invited us under false pretenses! Your daughter keeps us waiting?"

Marianne added, "Everyone knows your eldest daughter was missing for years, never even went to school! We're here out of respect for Gregory, and she dares keep us waiting?"

Baron leered. "I don't like your older sister. She's uneducated. How about we date instead?"

Brittany resisted the urge to slap him. "I have a boyfriend, and he's on his way."

Just then, a waiter announced a guest. Gregory leaped to his feet, expecting Brittany's boyfriend, Dominick. Instead, a film crew entered.

Gregory's disappointment was evident. Brittany, however, simply pointed to a side table. "Everyone, sit. We're waiting for others." Her tone was condescending.

Gary, the director, sat down grimly, his crew following suit. Logan, an assistant director, muttered to Gary, "Why are we even here? Does she think we're starving?"

Another assistant chimed in, "Exactly. Brittany used to be a nobody. Without her sudden, powerful backer, no one would look twice at her. Now, with all the online mockery, this project is doomed."

Gary hadn't wanted to come, but Brittany hinted at important guests, possibly her mysterious backer. An assistant asked about informing Nion, another crew member. Gary shook his head. "No chance. Nion hates her."

The Jackmans noticed Gary. Marianne recognized him. "Isn't that Gary Anderson?"

Christina’s face lit up. "Brittany’s starring in his show!"

Marianne's attitude softened. Keith and Baron realized Brittany wouldn't be interested in Baron. But Keith was frustrated. "Why are there so many irrelevant people?"

Gregory chuckled, regaining control. "Don't worry. I've reserved a private room. Your son and Paisley can talk there."