Although I had been called downstairs early as well, the Zamora family deliberately—or perhaps subconsciously—kept their distance from me. Almost no one paid me any attention.
I was more than happy with that.
I tucked myself into a corner, phone in hand, reviewing research materials.
I was completely absorbed when my grip suddenly loosened.
By the time I reacted, my phone was already gone.
On the screen, the biological reaction process under the microscope was still playing.
My heart nearly stopped.
"What are you doing? Give it back to me—now!"
Cedrick held my phone casually, clearly unconcerned.
"Brother, today is a big day for our Zamora family."
"The whole family is busy because of you. If you won't help receive guests, fine—but how can you sit here playing with your phone so shamelessly?"
"Phone... that phone is classified!" I panicked and stood up abruptly. "Give it back to me immediately!"
I didn't even have time to argue properly before rushing toward him.
But Cedrick was clearly prepared.
He took several steps back, retreating straight into the center of the banquet hall. Raising the phone high, he deliberately raised his voice.