Chapter 12

At the job fair, Robert and Samuel were the unwitting stars of a cruel comedy. Everyone watched, anticipating their humiliation. The targets of this spectacle? Robert and Samuel. The reason? Barry, whose father possessed millions in assets and had recently invested $750,000 in his son's company, and Kendrick, CEO of the Yrinas-based Zabel Group. To cross either man meant professional ruin in Yrinas.

"People who have nothing to do with this job fair should leave!" someone declared.

"Exactly. They're annoying everyone," another chimed in.

Several individuals recently hired by Barry and Kendrick's companies seized the opportunity to impress their bosses. Eager to curry favor, they began to relentlessly pick on Robert.

Barry and Kendrick’s smiles confirmed their strategy’s success. Emboldened, the sycophants intensified their humiliation of Robert and Samuel.

"Behold, the epitome of a street rat!" sneered one. "A target of universal scorn!"

"I've never witnessed such public hatred," another exclaimed, "Thank you, Robert!"

Marilyn, observing the relentless attack on Robert, repeatedly fought the urge to intervene. Family pressure held her back. Without it, she would have defended him instantly. But now, she could only watch, her silent anguish surpassing even the suffering she imagined Robert endured.

"Leave, Robert," she thought, knowing his stubborn nature would prevent a simple departure. He was strong-willed and unyielding—that was Robert.

Then, an impatient voice cut through the noise.

"Enough! All of you are unbearable!"

Jeremy, impeccably dressed, strode from the crowd, confronting Barry and Kendrick. "This is excessive! Even if you're trying to impress your bosses, this is ridiculous. Anyone who thinks they can challenge me, step forward!"

The jeering subsided. Jeremy's wealth was well-known; they dared insult Robert and Samuel, but not him.

He spat on the ground. "A bunch of fools."

Barry, ever watchful for an opportunity to needle Jeremy, spoke up. "Since when do you defend others, Jeremy?"

A simmering rivalry existed between Jeremy and Barry, both scions of wealthy families, constantly compared and competing for dominance.

Kendrick, smoothing his suit, sneered. "How arrogant. But tell me, who do you think you are?"

Jeremy met Kendrick's gaze. "You're Mr. Zabel, yes? Zabel Group is large, but does that mean your family rules Yrinas? Do your elders know how arrogant you are?"

He then turned to Barry. "Your father's influence makes you bold, but you can't afford to offend Robert."

Silence descended. Then, laughter erupted. "Ha! Robert is someone Barry can't mess with!"

"Is Mr. Walker mad?" someone asked incredulously.

"Do you think someone will suddenly announce Robert's three-year deadline is up?" another chimed in.

Barry, incredulous, pointed at his head. "Jeremy, are you an idiot? This is Robert, a nobody! I can't afford to mess with him?"

Kendrick, affecting nonchalance, adjusted his cuffs. "I don't need outside instruction."

Scoffs and sneers followed. Kendrick then glanced at Marilyn and shook his head. "Marilyn, your taste in menwas poor. We're done here. My car is over there."

He indicated a brand-new Ferrari in the parking lot, his new acquisition.

Gasps of admiration filled the air. Kendrick relished the envy, having chosen the family business over university. The compliments poured forth. "Luxurious! Extravagant! Amazing!"

But the word "extravagant" felt wrong to Kendrick. He looked towards the parking lot, and his jaw dropped. A line of brand-new Rolls-Royces, each with consecutive serial numbers, slowly approached.

At least ten Rolls-Royce Phantoms, each worth millions with optional extras—a fifteen-million-dollar display. No one in Yrinas possessed such wealth.

Behind each Rolls-Royce, ten women in gowns stood in formation—a hundred-strong procession of stunning women. The scene was mesmerizing.

All mockery of Robert ceased. Phones came out, capturing the spectacle for social media. This was far beyond a sports car sighting.

As the procession drew closer, the sheer extravagance silenced even the most vocal critics. The opulence overshadowed everything else.