The Serenity Gemstone Festival auction hall buzzed with anticipation as Quinn Thorne watched Tristan Blackwood approach.
"So you're young Mr. Thorne," Tristan said, his lips curving into a smile that never quite reached his eyes. "I have to admit, I've never heard your name anywhere in Crestport. I imagine this must be your first time attending an event of this caliber. Quite the learning experience, wouldn't you say?"
His tone was polite enough on the surface, but every syllable dripped with condescension, the kind of pleasantry designed to remind someone exactly where they stood.
After delivering his little speech, Tristan allowed his gaze to linger on Vivian Sinclair for a long, deliberate moment before turning away. His bodyguard Brutus fell into step behind him as they headed towar
