My grandfather had left me a massive inheritance that I used to quietly acquire struggling businesses like Zenith Group, which I had bailed out through a private fund six months ago. Julian was desperate to impress the interim director, Maxwell Thorne, because he spent every waking hour dreaming of a promotion to the executive board.
“The mysterious owner might even show up tonight,” Julian remarked as we got into the car. “I hope you can manage to stay quiet so I can finally make a lasting impression on the board.”
The gala was held at a prestigious hotel overlooking the coast, filled with crystal chandeliers and the scent of expensive perfume. Julian beamed as he shook hands with everyone, eventually leading me toward the VIP section where Maxwell Thorne was standing.
“Julian, it’s good to see you,” Maxwell said while offering a firm handshake. He then turned his gaze toward me with genuine respect and added, “And I don’t believe I’ve had the pleasure of being formally introduced to your wife yet.”
Julian froze as a flicker of shame crossed his face, clearly worried that being married to a woman he considered simple would hurt his sophisticated image.