Chapter 96

At Solvance Pharmaceuticals headquarters, Simon sat clutching a partnership proposal in the lounge. He had been waiting for three hours. The black marble tabletop reflected his scowling face, his eyes filled with mounting impatience. In Astoria, he might not be as successful as his cousin, Gregory, but he was still a legitimate heir from a wealthy family. Simon was the kind of man even the mayor treated with a degree of deference. And yet, this was the first time anyone had made him wait for three hours straight. "Mr. Hart, sorry to keep you waiting." The voice came from behind him. Wesley strode over in a sharp suit, looking apologetic. "I'm sorry, but Mr. Lockwood had an important board meeting today. It ran longer than expected," he explained. Simon's cold expression melted into one of understanding. "Not at all. Mr. Lockwood is a busy man. I'm honored he's willing to meet me," he said. He stood with his documents, ready to follow Wesley to meet Theodore. But Wesley smi