The price of betrayal (Jack and Ashley) novel Chapter 449

As the names echoed, both the people on and off the stage froze in place. They had assumed all the guests had arrived, but to their surprise, more were still on their way. And these companies, many of whose names were well-known, were each worth hundreds of millions of dollars.

Ben paused for a moment before looking at Stefan. "Mr. Gallant, are these your guests?"

Stefan shook his head. "No, though there are a few I'd like to meet. I just never had the chance." He then turned his gaze to Megan. "Could it be Ms. Turner who invited them?"

Ben raised an eyebrow at Stefan's suggestion but quickly approached Megan. "Ms. Turner, are these your guests?" he asked with a smile.

As much as Megan wanted to admit it, she was worried that her lie would be exposed the moment the newcomers said they weren't there at her invitation. That would be terribly embarrassing for her.

Thus, she quickly shook her head and said, "They're not my guests, but there are a few executives I do know among them."

Ben smiled and nodded. "Good, since you know some of them, we might need your help with hosting later. And, Ms. Turner, regarding the way we just handled Nolan, I hope you can understand. Given the circumstances today, I'm sure you see why it was necessary."

Megan nodded in return. "Don't worry, Mr. Stutton, I understand. Nolan did go a bit overboard, but I also hope you and everyone else can show some leniency. After all, he's just been released from prison, so it's normal for him to struggle with certain things. Also, I hope you can show some consideration to Wayne. Don't let him feel disheartened—that's all I ask."

Ben quickly shook his head. "Of course, we won't let him feel disheartened. Wayne and I have been good friends for many years. We'll definitely keep things separate."

Just then, Hoover chuckled and added, "You don't know who invited these guests? Maybe they heard that my grandpa had returned and came in the hopes of ingratiating themselves with him. After all, in the Northern State, people like them wouldn't even be qualified to meet someone with my grandpa's status."

Harold, hearing this, turned to Hoover and said sternly, "Hoover, be careful with your words. Have you forgotten what I taught you? No matter where you are, you should conduct yourself with humility and caution, not arrogance. What's all this talk about status and qualifications?