"Our family really has some clout, managing to invite someone from the Ericksons." Murmurs began spreading through the room.
"Please, it's all thanks to Ella's savvy. She landed a great son-in-law. Rumor has it that Ms. Erickson attended solely because of the Roberts' influence."
The room was buzzing with chatter. Theo Roberts and Ella Mitchell were beaming with pride. The Erickson family, with its three generations in the antiques business, had expanded its empire in this generation. Now, they were on the verge of entering the ranks of King City's top families. Everyone dreamed of associating with a premier family like the Ericksons, and now Theo Roberts was hoping to flaunt his connection.
"Ms. Erickson, it's an honor to have you at the Mitchell's celebration. You've truly graced our
