“Are you ready,” Matthew Powell asked calmly, his voice carrying a chilling edge, “to have reality slap you in the face?”
His words rang out like a sudden clap of thunder, so sharp and forceful that everyone present froze for a heartbeat.
Before anyone could respond, a soft chuckle drifted out from the inner hall.
“Heh.”
The laugh was light, yet brimming with disdain—an unmistakable note of superiority that instantly drew every gaze.
A moment later, Jason Zane emerged, supporting Tom Lacy by the arm as they walked out together.
The instant Rebecca Lacy saw him, her expression brightened as if she had finally found her anchor. She hurried over, looping her arm through Jason’s and pouting slightly. “Why did you take so long, honey?”
“Jason’s here.”
“Young Master Zane, good evening.”
