Chapter 91: For The Family
Ever since Aron told Max he’d be attending this event, his biggest concern wasn’t Sheri, his ex-fiancée, or whatever scheme her mother was plotting. No, the real problem had always been Chad.
Now that Max knew the truth, that Chad was the one behind everything that happened at the school, it changed everything. He still didn’t know who was responsible for the attempted drowning of the real Max Stern... but this guy, Chad, had caused nothing but trouble for him in his new life.
"Why don’t we move along," Aron said with a calm smile, gently guiding Max away.
They shifted toward a nearby table, picking up small plates and nibbling on the arranged hors d’oeuvres. Max was grateful for Aron’s instinct. Even in this grand ballroom, packed with chandeliers and high-profile guests, there were still people with press badges walking around and cameras clicking in every direction.
Still, as Max picked through the appetizers, he couldn’t help but glance back over his shoulder.
There he was.
Chad had arrived, sunglasses resting on the top of his head, his hair slicked back behind his ears, and a flashy yellow patterned suit that made him stand out like a neon sign in a black-and-white photo. You could spot him from anywhere in the room.
"Mrs. Curts, it’s so lovely to see you," Chad said, bowing slightly as he lifted her hand and kissed it with practiced charm. Then, turning to Sheri, he added, "And you, you look more stunning every time I see you."
He took Sheri’s hand and gave it a small kiss as well, smiling like he’d just stepped out of a romance novel.
"I’m afraid I’ve been really busy as of late," Chad said with a sigh. "Things are getting tough within the Stern family, so I haven’t had time to get you a gift. But I promise, I’ll bring you something special the next time we meet."
"Oh, don’t be silly," Sanna giggled, gently slapping Chad across the chest like they were lifelong friends. "You don’t have to get us anything. You being here is a gift enough."