The Heiress’ Return: Six Brothers at Her Beck and Call (Wynter Quinnell) novel Chapter 1958

There was an old saying that implied a powerful outsider was no match for a local overlord, but Charis didn't buy into that. He believed that no matter how influential these families were, they would all submit to him as long as he held the lifeline in his hands.

At that moment, the hall quieted noticeably after Baxter arrived. Nearly all eyes fell on him. After all, these weren't ordinary people—they all understood the Hensley family's true power.

Some time ago, the Hensleys had publicly announced that Baxter's health was failing and that he had retired to live out his remaining years in peace. No one expected his sudden return, let alone that he'd personally kick his own son out of the family.

Many speculated that his son had tried to seize the position of family head during Baxter's health crisis, using the opportunity to wrest control of the Hensleys for himself.

"The esteemed head of the Hensley family gracing us with his presence? What an honor," came a voice from afar.

As the figure came closer, it was revealed to be Charis, who had just returned from the surveillance room. He wore a faux skin mask over his face. Though he deeply resented Baxter, none of it showed on the surface. After all, he had to maintain his appearances.

With a respectful smile, he greeted, "Mr. Hensley Senior, how have you been lately?"

"No need for your concern, Mr. Boso. I've been doing quite well," Baxter replied with effortless authority. He could see through Charis and knew his display of respect masked nothing but cunning malice.

"That's good to hear," Charis said, shifting his gaze toward Alaskey, who stood off to the side.

With a feigned tone of sincerity, he added, "Alaskey, you should've told me you and your grandfather were coming to the chamber banquet. I would have personally sent a car to fetch you."

"No need for the trouble," Baxter replied, giving him a sidelong glance. His tone, like that of an elder drawing a clear line, made his stance obvious. "I know my own body. The Hensley family still has enough drivers and cars to manage just fine."

Charis' gaze darkened slightly at Baxter's words. He had planned to set a trap for Alaskey, having everyone know that the Hensleys remained the top family in Havenia. After all, the higher they were praised, the harder they'd fall. He hadn't expected Baxter to reply before Alaskey.

"Very well. If you say so." Charis forced a smile.

As he turned around, he shot a look at someone nearby.

The man instantly understood. Raising his voice, he said, "Mr. Hensley Senior, let me escort you to your seat. The banquet hasn't started yet, and I'm afraid standing for too long might strain your body."

He walked over to Baxter's side, reaching out to support him.

But Baxter waved him off. "No need. I'm in excellent health. Everyone else is standing, so there's no need for special treatment."

He then led Alaskey to the side and began greeting a few of the families they were on good terms with. Any families close to the Hensleys naturally held considerable status themselves.

Unlike most who entered Velaris Luxe through the main entrance, the truly influential ones weren't there to simply drink and chat. They knew how to read the room, aware that building connections and expanding networks was far more valuable.

Everything they did started from self-interest. After all, as long as it benefited them, that was enough.

"Mr. Boso, with the power we hold now, do we still need to show that old man so much respect?" one of Charis' men whispered beside him.

"I agree. He comes and goes as he pleases, acting all high and mighty. Does he think the Hensleys are still that powerful?"

"If you ask me, we might as well just break things off with them altogether. That old guy probably doesn't have much time left anyway."

Charis' eyes narrowed slightly before replying, "Not yet."

He glanced toward Baxter, who stood in the distance. "But I still can't believe the old bastard actually showed up here."

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