The long dining table gleamed with polished wood and fine china, set for a formal family dinner at the sprawling Johnson estate. But the oppressive silence that hung over the gathered members spoke of anything but celebratory anticipation.
Liam shifted uncomfortably in his seat, acutely aware of the weight of his grandparents' scrutinizing gazes. His mother cleared her throat, shooting him a pointed look.
"We're proud of the sacrifice you're making for this family, Liam," she began in a carefully measured tone. "Aligning ourselves with the Wards is an immense opportunity."
His grandfather gave a curt nod of agreement. "They may not be legacy elite like the Holloways, but the Wards' wealth and influence are rivaled by few. This merger will be extremely advantageous for continuing our family's upward trajectory."
