Chapter 272: On the Pretext

News of Tommy's endeavor spread rapidly, attracting numerous business magnates, some eager to cultivate a relationship with him. By noon, dozens of individuals, each with a net worth exceeding fifty million, filled the hall, buzzing about Tommy's revitalizing pills.

"Mr. Lewis is from the underworld. Why is he suddenly selling medicine?"

"I heard these pills strengthen one's constitution, promote longevity, and—most importantly—restore youthful vigor. Sounds miraculous!"

"Let's wait and see. I'm skeptical. Who knows if they actually work?"

"He's probably just short on cash, using the medicine as a pretext to raise money."

Whispers filled the room. Trust in Tommy was low. His sudden foray into pharmaceuticals, an area he'd never previously touched, seemed suspiciously convenient. Most suspected a money-making scheme. While outright extortion was illegal, selling miraculous (and possibly worthless) medicine to the wealthy was not.

As speculation mounted, Jared entered. His enhanced senses had picked up the conversation.

"Mr. Chance"

The magnates greeted him respectfully, remembering his impressive display at Walter's banquet, where he defeated Steven and earned the respect of both Tommy and Walter.

Jared acknowledged their greetings. Observing the crowd, he noticed a prevalent pattern: illness, particularly among the men, stemming from unrestrained indulgence in their wealth. Age-related issues were common, suggesting a receptive market for remedies addressing their specific concerns. These, he surmised, would be the quickest and most effective to sell.

Suddenly, a shout pierced the air: "Someone from Summerbank has arrived!"

Excitement rippled through the crowd. The doors swung open, revealing Tyrion and Sandy, arm in arm. Tyrion, initially intending a shopping trip with Sandy, had changed his plans upon hearing about Tommy's event.

"Mr. Whitaker! Mr. Whitaker is here!"

The crowd surged forward, eager to greet Tyrion. Being from Horington, their families paled in comparison to the Whitakers of Summerbank.

Tyrion acknowledged them with a curt nod, his expression impassive. Horington's elite held little interest for him. Sandy, however, reveled in the attention, her posture stiff with newfound importance.

Jared smirked, noting Sandy's new companion. A wave of self-reproach washed over him. "Why didn't I see through Sandy's true nature in university? Thank goodness we didn't marry; I would have been cuckolded."

Turning to leave, he was stopped by Sandy's voice: "Jared"