Chapter 44: Why Should We Hide?

After checking into the hotel, Jared texted Tommy, instructing him to dismiss Yoel. He didn't want to dine with Yoel, nor did he want the Scott family to know his identity. In truth, he wanted to see how long Leyton and Sandy could continue provoking him.

Inside the hotel, everyone surrounded Walter, their expressions deferential. Some were aware of his penchant for collecting antiques; they had searched far and wide for rare pieces to gift him.

Beside Walter stood a burly, grim-faced middle-aged man, ever vigilant: his personal bodyguard, Luca Turner. A retired member of the Dragon Squadron, Luca had protected Walter while he was in office and continued to do so afterward. Walter always brought Luca to public events for security.

After waving to quiet the crowd, Walter declared loudly, “Ladies and gentlemen, I have a few rules for this banquet. Firstly, I'm not accepting gifts. Secondly, I won't discuss business. I simply want to introduce a new friend; please make yourselves comfortable.”

Many guests had heard this beforehand, but hearing it from Walter himself still surprised them. They wondered about the impressive background of the person Walter was about to introduce; such fanfare suggested someone extraordinary.

Glancing at his watch, Walter asked Tommy, “Why isn’t Mr. Chance here yet?”

“He’ll probably arrive soon,” Tommy replied, unaware of Jared's delay despite their previous day's arrangements. [Remove the promotional sentence here]

His phone buzzed almost immediately. It was a message from Jared, which he showed to Walter. After reading it, Walter nodded slightly. “No wonder he hasn’t arrived. There’s a reason for his absence. My oversight.”

He then looked toward Yoel. Yoel, too, was anticipating the arrival of the young man. Someone so important to Walter Grange must be extraordinary! he thought. If I ingratiate myself with him, the Scott family might surpass the Sullivans!

As Yoel was contemplating this, Walter’s gaze found him. “Mr. Scott…”

Yoel rushed forward. “Mr. Grange… Can I help you?”

“You’re not allowed to attend this banquet. Please leave.”

Yoel was stunned. “Mr. Grange, I—”

Walter cut him off, waving a hand. “Someone, escort him out!”

Confused and unable to remain, Yoel turned and left. The other guests wondered if the Scott family had offended Walter.

Meanwhile, Josephine and Jared had already snuck in and were watching from a corner.

“Let’s hide first. We’ll go out later, when the banquet starts,” Josephine whispered, cautiously peeking out.

“Why hide? Since we’re here, let’s go out openly!” Jared declared, immediately walking out.

Horrified, Josephine tried to stop him, but only grasped air.

Tommy exclaimed, “Mr. Chance is here!”

Walter looked up. Seeing Jared, his face lit up, and he strode toward him.

William, witnessing Jared's arrival and Walter's approach, broke into a cold sweat. Crap! I told Josephine to sneak him in. I'm dead if Mr. Grange finds out!