The silence in the Thornton Family conference room felt like a physical weight pressing down on everyone present. Blood dripped from Uncle Armando's hand, each drop hitting the polished mahogany table with a soft pat that echoed in the stillness.
Before Victor could respond to his brother's warning, the massive double doors at the end of the room swung open. Every head turned as Uncle Shane Thornton strode in, his presence immediately commanding attention.
"Enough of this childish bickering," Shane announced, his voice carrying effortlessly through the room.
I'd heard whispers about Shane Thornton during my time in Veridia City. Unlike most of his family members who flaunted their status, he rarely appeared in public. The few times he did, trouble followed.
Victor rose from his seat, face flushing. "This is a private family meeting—"
Shane raised a single finger, and Victor's voice died in his throat. The family head's face contorted as if struggling against an invisible force.
