CHAPTER TWO HUNDRED AND SEVENTY TWO – THE CASTLE HALLS

An awkward silence descended over the group, thick and suffocating, until Gregory Harris himself arrived on the scene. "Well, well!" The boisterous man boomed, seemingly oblivious to the tension. "If it isn't my favorite business partner and his lovely family!" He clapped Lance heartily on the shoulder before turning to Kayla with a bright smile. "And this must be the newest little Storm! She's absolutely precious." Kayla found her voice at last, forcing a strained smile. "Thank you, Mr. Harris. We're so grateful for your hospitality." "Think nothing of it, my dear!" Gregory waved a hand dismissively. "Any friend of Storm Enterprises is a friend of mine. Now, what say we give you the grand tour? This old castle is simply brimming with history!" Relief washed over Kayla as the distraction arrived. She fell into step beside Lance, Cassie nestled securely in her arms, as their host launched into an enthusiastic preamble about the castle's origins. As they wandered the interminable c