"Of course. Like father, like son. I hear Young Master Linton, the guest of honor, is a well-known top student. Once he inherits the family fortune, the Linton Family is sure to become even more prosperous!"
All sorts of compliments could be heard throughout the main hall.
Everyone knew the true purpose of the banquet went beyond the celebration, yet they all feigned ignorance.
William Chapman slowly walked onto the red-carpeted stage. He raised a hand, and the hall immediately fell silent.
He smiled faintly, picked up the microphone, and said, "Thank you to all our guests for taking time out of your busy schedules to attend my son's coming-of-age ceremony. I also want to thank you all for your support of the Linton Group over the years. I have always believed that for such great kindness, words are not enough. I will be sure to repay every favor, no matter how small, a hundredfold in the future."
He followed this with a long string of effusive thanks.
