Scott exhaled like someone carrying responsibility he believed justified his actions. “Abigail and I have been discussing our future plans, including a house, children, and building a stronger social position.”
Abigail stiffened beside him, clearly unaware of where the conversation was going. Her fingers tightened around her napkin as she looked from him to his parents in confusion.
Howard leaned forward slightly, his voice steady and confident. “Our family has spent generations building a reputation, and Scott is moving up quickly with real leadership potential.”
He paused briefly before continuing with quiet authority. “Image matters, connections matter, and stability matters when you are entering higher circles.”
I opened the envelope and pulled out a check for fifty thousand dollars, holding it between my fingers without reacting. Diane’s voice softened again, though the meaning behind it remained sharp and unmistakable.
“This is not meant to offend you, we simply believe it may be best if you step back a little from family appearances,” she said carefully. “Fewer visits, fewer casual interactions, and less visibility overall.”