“Brendon Brooks, CEO of Brooks Corporation, has arrived!”
The announcement cut through the hall like a thunderclap. Conversations halted mid-sentence. Wine glasses stopped halfway to lips. Heads turned in unison.
Tom’s expression tightened. A wrinkle formed right between his brows.
He hadn’t invited Brendon Brooks tonight.
This banquet was supposed to be the Lacy family’s moment of triumph.
So why was the head of the Brooks family suddenly here?
But he couldn’t exactly question it now—not with everyone staring.
Tom stood immediately. “Everyone, come with me to welcome Mr. Brooks.”
“Yes, yes, of course.”
“Let’s go together.”
In an instant, everyone at the main table stood up and moved toward the doors in a small parade of expensive suits and polished leather shoes.
Tom called out
