The silence in the room was suffocating. Roman's dismissal of Sebastian Hawthorne hung in the air like an executioner's blade. I watched Sebastian's face cycle through shock, disbelief, and barely contained fury.
"Perhaps there's been a misunderstanding," Sebastian finally said, his voice tight with forced politeness. "I merely expressed interest in expediting our discussions. The Hawthorne family doesn't appreciate having our time wasted."
Roman smiled, completely unfazed. "There's no misunderstanding, Mr. Hawthorne." He turned to address the entire room, his voice clear and commanding. "Ladies and gentlemen, I know you've all been waiting to meet our Chinese medicine expert."
The crowd murmured with anticipation, heads turning as they scanned the room for a new arrival.
"The truth is," Roman continued, "he's been here all along."
My heart pounded as Roman's gaze settled on me. This was the moment of truth.
