he murmur spread instantly.
“Hayes Technologies…”
“The acquisition…”
“He’s worth billions…”
Every head turned.
Every conversation stopped.
Richard’s smile faltered for the first time that evening.
Vanessa stiffened beside him.
“That’s impossible,” she muttered. “Why would *he* be here?”
Richard didn’t answer.
Because he already knew.
Emily walked forward calmly, one hand resting lightly on Noah’s shoulder. Nathan walked confidently beside her, glancing around with curiosity but not intimidation.
Daniel followed half a step behind—not leading, not overshadowing.
Standing beside her.
Not above.
That detail didn’t go unnoticed.
The guests parted without being asked.
Like water making way for something inevitable.
Richard stepped forward, forcing his expression back into something controlled.
