A birthday party for a rising business star like me wouldn’t usually warrant the presence of the heads of the four most influential
families.
So why were they here tonight?
The reasons were as compelling as they were strategic.
My brothers had just conquered overseas markets, their financial reports painting a picture of unparalleled success.
My father’s recent Nasdaq bell–ringing had transformed our family’s wealth from substantial to legendary.
The Grant name carried weight–a century of influence threading through political corridors and business empires.
And yet, the Harlow heir had spent three consecutive days in the media publicly declaring his intention to break off our
engagement.
William must have been worried about disappointing my father and brothers.
By the time the elevator doors opened, Victor was still right behind me.
“Mia, don’t think you can use your birthday as an excuse to ask the elders to step in on your behalf. I’ve already promised Yvonne
that I will marry her, and I never go back on my word.
“If you agree to break off the engagement, I’ll make sure you and the Grant family are well compensated.”
I turned to look at Victor, my expression unreadable.
As he said, he had been born the heir of the Harlow family.
His life had been so smooth and easy, that he couldn’t possibly understand what it truly meant for someone to become the
Harlow family’s matriarch–or how much that position mattered.
