Chapter 36: It's Settled

Sophie Mitchell had planned to wait outside for Henry Carson. But soon, she noticed the crowd emerging from the jewelry exhibition. Whispers about Robert Anderson's presence made her anxious. She contemplated re-entering to find Henry, but Lily Turner pulled her away. Moments later, Rowan Erickson left the exhibition, looking deep in thought, and sped off towards her family estate. An hour later, Henry Carson and his entourage arrived at the Marriott International Hotel. Felix Cooper had reserved a luxurious private dining room, and Robert Anderson insisted on having the hotel's finest wines brought out. As Henry settled into his seat, Robert immediately knelt before him. "Enough of that, Robert. Sit," Henry dismissed him with a casual wave. With a sense of urgency, Robert presented a treasured artifact known as the "Heart of the Emperor." "Mr. Carson, this is a token of our esteem, a gesture from the Anderson family. I hope you'll accept it." Henry smirked, "That was the very item