“Brandon has shown extraordinary vision in securing those prime development parcels.”

Brandon cleared his throat loudly from his seat beside Chloe.

“It’s simple supply and demand, really,” Brandon said, holding up a glass of dark red wine.

“When you control the premier waterfront parcels on Lake Anne, the regional banks fall right in line.”

Chloe tapped her long, manicured nails on her phone screen, smiling at the guests across from her.

I stepped over the threshold into the bright light of the chandelier, keeping my boots silent on the oriental runner.