Chapter 177

Brittany felt a pang of disappointment when Grayson called her by her name, not "Mom." Then again, they weren't married yet. That thought eased her mind.

Dominick scanned the room, his face falling as he failed to spot Paisley. The Sullivans noticed his sudden unhappiness. Tension filled the air.

"Mr. Vanderbilt, please sit," Gregory urged smoothly, offering Dominick the best seat. He shifted to give Grayson space.

Keith and Marianne Jackman confidently approached.

"Mr. Vanderbilt, I'm Keith Jackman, and this is my wife," Keith announced.

Dominick, frowning, didn't recognize them. Keith quickly added, "My son, Baron, is dating one of Gregory's daughters. Future in-laws, you see."

A sardonic smile played on Gregory's lips. Just moments ago, the Jackmans had been arrogant. Now they were angling for in-laws status? He'd proven his brilliant strategy; securing the Jackmans as allies and silencing their earlier disdain.

Brittany's film crew shrank into the background, cowed. No one in Harrowfell would dare belittle the Sullivans again. It was all Brittany's doing.

Gregory patted Brittany's shoulder, his gratitude evident. She blushed, her heart soaring. Her family's rise was entirely her achievement. Paisley remained trapped in the dust, dependent on her charity.

Dominick, catching Brittany's blush, realized Baron must be dating Paisley's sister. A future reconciliation with Paisley would make them family. His expression softened. "Hello."

Relief washed over Keith and Marianne. Their resolve to marry Baron to Paisley solidified. Paisley's flaws were insignificant compared to the prospect of becoming in-laws with the Vanderbilts—even if it meant sacrificing Baron.