Chapter 27

Robert, confused by Barry's sudden change in expression, asked, "Do you really think you're the hotel owner's son? Is the Grand Triumphant Hotel yours? If it is, then the whole of Yrinas is mine! Yesterday's display was quite a show. Kendrick told me you mortgaged your house! Ha! You've spent a fortune pretending to be wealthy!" Barry crossed his arms sarcastically.

Robert's confusion deepened. "Are you saying I mortgaged my house? Did Kendrick tell you that?"

"Stop acting," Barry retorted. "I thought you were gutsy, but you're so hypocritical it disgusts me. No wonder Marilyn dumped you. You know your family's situation; you even mortgaged your house to keep up appearances." He looked at Robert with disdain. "So what if you pretended yesterday? You still envy me! My life is something you'll never have. But since we're classmates, I'll give you a chance. Apologize, and I might consider letting you clean at my company. Oh, and don't think your act impresses me. I hate people richer than me, especially losers like you. The more you pretend, the more I hate you, understand?" Barry grabbed his plate and left.

Robert shook his head, ignoring him. He mused, "Is there a loser who could win a four-year scholarship? Could Marilyn have a crush on a loser? Maybe Barry really does hate people richer than him."

Robert wasn't interested in competing with Barry. He preferred focusing on management and investment.

At 10:00 a.m., he had an espresso, changed into formal clothes, and went to the meeting room. Several people in Yrinas sought entry into an exclusive circle, requiring significant influence and, most importantly, the Zabinski family's approval. Without it, even the most capable individuals were excluded—a sort of initiation rite for anyone entering Yrinas' business community.

The Grand Triumphant Hotel's largest meeting room held a long table seating twenty. Barry, fidgeting anxiously in the least conspicuous seat, was about to meet Yrinas' most important figure. He'd already posted several Instagram updates and planned his bragging rights for that night's party.

"Behave yourself," a middle-aged man, a Yrinas elder and Barry's superior, cautioned. "Don't embarrass yourself." Barry's presence was solely due to this man's influence.

"Yes, Mr. Lobelius," Barry replied humbly.

Thirteen successful individuals filled the room, all as nervous as Barry.

The door opened, and an elderly man entered. Nearly everyone stood.