Chapter 32: Walter Grange

"Scarface, clear the crowd. There's nothing to see," Tommy instructed.

"Shoo! Get lost! What's to see? Anyone caught buying or selling anything illegally will face the consequences!" Scarface roared, scattering the crowd.

"Mr. Chance, are you looking for something specific? The stalls here aren't very interesting. The best items are inside," Tommy explained.

"I'm looking for a spiritual brush and a cinnabar rosary. Do you have them?" Jared asked.

Tommy was stumped. He didn't know what a spiritual brush was, and cinnabar rosaries were common. He didn't dare question Jared, however. Instead, he replied respectfully, "Mr. Chance, I'll take you to some antique shops. To be honest, I'm not familiar with these items myself."

"Lead the way," Jared nodded.

With Tommy guiding him, they visited several antique shops. Unfortunately, none had what Jared sought.

Tommy was exasperated. "Mr. Chance, that's all Antique Street has to offer. Should I send my men to check elsewhere?"

"No need. It's a matter of luck. Even if they saw it, they might not recognize it," Jared replied, waving his hand.

"True," Tommy agreed.

"Then I'll be going," Jared said.

Just as Jared was leaving, Tommy remembered something. "Mr. Chance, wait!"

"Yes?"

"I just remembered a place that might have what you're looking for."

Tommy had his men prepare the car and invited Jared inside. On the way, he explained that they were going to see Walter Grange, a retired, high-ranking state government official.

Grange had built a villa in Horington and filled it with antiques, some imported from overseas. His collection far surpassed anything on Antique Street.

Jared was surprised that such an influential man lived in Horington. He mused that if he were still an ordinary person, he wouldn't have had this opportunity.

Their car stopped before a grand villa. A servant spoke briefly with Tommy before returning inside. Soon, an elderly man with a white beard, leaning on a cane, emerged. He chuckled heartily upon seeing Tommy. "Mr. Lewis, what a pleasant surprise!"

Tommy bowed slightly. "Mr. Grange, you flatter me. Please, call me Tommy. I don't deserve such formality." He dared not offend the former official.

After pleasantries, Walter looked at Jared. "Mr. Lewis, I don't recognize this gentleman…"

"This is Mr. Chance. I hope I'm not imposing by bringing him," Tommy explained quickly.

Walter's surprise at Tommy's deference to the young Jared was fleeting. He quickly regained his composure.