Gene was assuredly above the rest, but one could expect nothing less of the richest man of the east coast.


    The bigwigs who attended the charity auction were authorities in politics, business, or even the military. They were either rich or powerful, their authority extending over the country.


    Frank also spotted representatives from illustrious families such as the Soranos, the Lionhearts, and the Jankos. They were all mingling cordially in the lobby, and the vibes were cheerful with endlessughter.


    Still, Frank did not get involved and started looking for a ce to sit and wait for Gene, when a security guard intercepted him. "Greetings, sir. Would you mind showing your invitation?" "Invitation?" Frank did a double take, only to remember that he had left in a hurry since Vicky was urging him.


    The invitation was left in his desk drawer because of that.


    What should he do now? He would not make it back in time if he returned now.


    After musing to himself for a while, he looked up at the security guard. "I have the invitation, but I left in a hurry and forgot to bring it. Would you mind letting me through?" However, the security guard''s smile stiffened, and he frowned. "In that case, would you mind telling me whichpany or family you represent? We can ask for you."


    "I see. I''m from Lanecorp." Frank nodded, thinking for a moment that Gene''s people were nice enough.


    "Lanecorp?"


    The security guard frowned again, and his expression cooled after he confirmed it through his headset. "I''m sorry, but we never invited Lanecorp. I''m afraid you have to leave the door''s that way." Frank did a double take as the security guard was already chasing him off.


    Moreover, the invitation was sent to Lanecorp. Why would they not be on the list?


    Sighing, he said, "If Lanecorp''s not on the list, what about Vicky Turnbull?"


    "Sir, please be reasonable." The security guard glowered.


    In his mind, Frank was obviously an interloper trying to sneak into the auction.


    First naming some unknownpany and then name-dropping the Turnbulls? He was certainly bold.


    He beckoned, and three other security guards strode up to them, ready to chase Frank away.


    Themotion quickly drew much


    attention at the hall, with Hugh


    Turnbull himselfing uch


    dressed in a fancy suit and having a prettydy in one arm.


    "Heh—and here I wondered who was name-dropping my family to sneak in here. Color me surprised, Frank Lawrence."


    He sneered, not holding back as soon as he saw Frank.


    Frank simply snorted and ignored him.


    "Mr. Lawrence? What brings you here?" another voice asked just then.


    Frank turned and saw that it was Ned Janko, grinning in surprise when he saw Frank.


    Seeing the bodyguards surrounding Frank, Ned scowled and snapped coolly, "Step aside. Mr. Lawrence here is my friend."


    "I''m sorry, sir, but we have orders...


    He


    imed


    have an invitation and


    he was fromet


    first,


    and then the Turnbulls-"


    The security guard then realized with a start-there was a Turnbull right there with them!


    Turning toward Hugh-who was simply


    asked, "Mr. Turnbull, does this man represent your family?"


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