Theodore shook hands mechanically, forcing a bitter smile.
Now, it seemed like anyone could seize an opportunity—anyone except him, the one who’d been kicked out of the partnership.
“Hey, man, look out for your buddy in the future, will you? If you’re feasting, just toss me a few scraps. I’ll be satisfied with the leftovers,” a man said, clapping Theodore on the shoulder.
The touch wasn’t even hard, but Theodore felt as if each pat was about to shatter his chest.
Larson finished his welcoming speech, encouraging everyone to eat, drink, and enjoy themselves, then led Emma down from the stage.
Suddenly, they were no longer those overlooked “kids from some family.” People surged toward them, eager to get close, surrounding them in the middle of the hall.
Without even trying, they’d become the center of attention.
Elsewhere, Latham also drew his own crowd.
Some guests weren’t interested in the buzz, just here for the food, wine, and to mingle; they formed their own little clusters.
But around Theodore and his group, the space emptied out fast.
Only a few small-time business owners, oblivious to the shifting tide and still hoping to suck up to Theodore, lingered nearby.
Cathie let out a dry chuckle. “Let’s go. What’s left to see? Time to call it a night—this is over.”


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