Chapter 229

Xander's description of a tough man immediately brought Brandon to mind. I recalled what Derick had said about Xander's friend with the last name Howell who had invested a large sum of money into his company. I looked at Xander. "When you say tough man, what exactly do you mean? Do you happen to have such a friend, Mr. Roulder?" Xander cleared his throat. "It's hard to describe. It's about having a strong, upright presence, like… like those on the screen." He pointed to the large TV in the cafeteria, which was showing news footage of flag bearers standing in perfect military posture. Each of them looked stern and resolute. I couldn't help but think of Brandon again, and I sensed that Xander was implying something. I couldn't help but think, "Is his surname Howell? A tough man? A soldier-like figure? Isn't that Brandon?" I looked at Xander, who was still staring at the screen, seemingly lost in thought. I decided to ask abruptly, "Do you have a friend named Brandon, Mr. Roulder?"