Eleanor glided to the stage like she owned it.
Basking in the applause, the massive LED screens displayed her name in golden letters.
She took the microphone with practiced ease.
“Thank you all for this incredible honor. The Drexler name means excellence in real estate.”
She paused for effect.
“For 40 years, my late husband built an empire, and now that legacy continues through strategic acquisitions.”
She turned to the screen behind her, where photos of various properties appeared.
“Including our newest acquisition in Malibu, a stunning beachfront estate that represents everything the Drexler family stands for.”
The audience murmured appreciatively.
Several people took photos.
“I’d like to personally invite everyone here to our housewarming next month,” Eleanor continued, her voice dripping with false generosity. “Because real estate isn’t just about properties. It’s about community, family, and knowing your place in the world.”
That last line was directed at me.
I remained perfectly still at the head table.
“Some people,” Eleanor’s eyes found mine, “think they can buy their way into our world. But class, true class, is inherited, not purchased.”
Marcus shifted uncomfortably in his seat.
Even he could feel the venom in his mother’s words.
The association president returned to the microphone.
“Thank you, Mrs. Drexler. And now, please welcome our keynote speaker, Victoria Sterling, CEO of Meridian Global.”
Victoria walked past Eleanor, who was still soaking in applause.
They crossed paths at center stage, and Victoria whispered something that made Eleanor’s smile falter for just a second.
