I stood silently beside Michael Ashworth in his opulent study, watching as he instructed his steward with calm authority. The morning light streamed through tall windows, casting long shadows across the polished hardwood floor.
"Make the announcement in three days," Michael said, his voice firm but not unkind. "Liam Knight is to be recognized as an honored guest of the Ashworth family."
The steward shifted uncomfortably. "Sir, with all due respect, isn't this rather... hasty? We know very little about Mr. Knight's background."
Michael's lips curved into a knowing smile. "Maxwell, when a tide begins to rise, the wise man doesn't fight it—he prepares his boat." He glanced at me briefly. "Mr. Knight's star is ascending. Better to acknowledge it now than scramble to do so later."
Maxwell nodded stiffly, clearly unconvinced but unwilling to argue further. "As you wish, sir. Will there be anything else?"
"That will be all for now."
