Hitched & Hitched Again: A Comedy of Marital Mayhem novel Chapter 1049

The crowd turned towards the source of the commotion and saw a man who exuded an aura of undeniable power and sophistication. Dressed in an impeccably tailored dark suit, tie neatly in place and a lapel pin adding just the right touch of elegance, he was the epitome of high society. His wristwatch glinted under the light, and his hair was groomed to perfection. It was clear from his demeanor that he was no ordinary man.

Trailing behind him was another man, his features pleasant and his presence soothing, carrying an assortment of gifts. It seemed they were here on a visit, a master and his aide, perhaps.

The Patel brothers were the first to recognize him, their surprise evident. "Isn't that Tarquin, the wealthiest man in Jindale City?"

Clayton was taken aback. "Mr. Bradford? What’s he doing here?"

The Murphys too were wide-eyed, their surprise mingled with suspicion.

Roger voiced his disbelief, "Dad, is that... is that the famous Tarquin, the nation’s top tycoon? Why would he come to the Hawkins residence? What could possibly link the Hawkins to him?"

Bobby was skeptical, "Impossible! If Clayton had any ties to him, we’d have known by now!"

"The timing of his visit is curious, though. Could he be Clayton’s secret ally?"

"That's even less likely! The Hawkins Sea-freight is known worldwide, sure, but they have no dealings with the Bradfords up north. They don’t mix business with pleasure, so to speak. It's not like Clayton has the charm to woo anyone he pleases!"

"And yet, Mr. Bradford arrives bearing gifts, as if on a social call..."

"Those gifts might not even be for the Hawkins!"

Bobby was adamant, refusing to believe Clayton could have such a connection, especially not with someone of Tarquin's stature. After all, Clayton, despite being Oceanopolis’s richest, was small fry compared to the national wealth of Tarquin. Moreover, Clayton was practically a pariah now; who would willingly associate with him, let alone someone of Mr. Bradford’s caliber?

"Dad, doesn’t Mr. Bradford look a bit familiar to you?"