"What do you mean?" Chloe's voice wavers, her radiant smile beginning to crack around the edges.
Vincent Sterling adjusts his napkin with practiced precision. "I mean, my dear, that beauty without substance is merely decoration. Pretty to look at, but ultimately... hollow."
The color drains from Chloe's face. She looks between Vincent and me, confusion replacing the triumph that had filled her eyes moments before.
"I don't understand."
"Allow me to clarify." Vincent's tone remains warm, but his words cut deep. "You see, Chloe, I've spent my entire career in service to extraordinary people. I've learned to distinguish between those who possess true worth and those who merely possess good genetics."
Chloe's hand trembles as she reaches for her wine glass. "Vincent, I think there's been some misunderstanding—"
"No misunderstanding at all." Vincent turns to his grandson. "Leo, would you mind telling Mrs. Bennett what you've been studying in your economics tutor sessions?"
