Chapter 281

Chapter 281:

When he clearly saw the convoy, his expression turned to shock.

Although the cars were indeed Volkswagen Santanas, the presence of police escorts both leading and trailing the convoy was unmistakable.

One by one, people began to exit the vehicles. Jacoby’s unease escalated as he recognized them.

The people who stepped out were Inewood’s top officials—the mayor, the chief of police, the deputy director of the business bureau, and other high-ranking figures.

Realizing the significance of who had just arrived, Jacoby was overwhelmed with regret.

He wished he could go back in time and prevent himself from making such a blunder.

Jacoby had just boldly proclaimed to numerous media outlets that the city’s top officials were mere country bumpkins.

Such recklessness was something even his father would never dare.

Additionally, their branch office had only recently established itself in Inewood. Offending these officials could lead to their expulsion as soon as the next day.

Jacoby’s forehead started to sweat profusely as he frantically looked for the media representatives. He was desperate to prevent his earlier statements from being broadcast.

Before he could act, he noticed the mayor, Goodwin Payne, leading the group of officials straight toward him. Goodwin didn’t say a word, but his mere glance made Jacoby’s legs feel weak.

Luckily for Jacoby, it seemed Goodwin looked his way only by chance and had no intention of confronting him. Goodwin and the officials walked past Jacoby without stopping and headed directly toward Ashton.

Under Jacoby’s shocked gaze, Goodwin warmly greeted Ashton and Rosalie, saying, “You must be the organizers of this exhibition. On behalf of the local government, I would like to congratulate both of you and your groups. I wish you all the best for a successful event!”

Realizing that the high-ranking officials had ignored him, likely having not heard his earlier arrogant remarks, Jacoby felt a wave of relief sweep over him, thankful to have dodged a bullet.

Yet, amidst this relief, confusion clouded his mind.

This was merely an ordinary antique exhibition. Even the head of the Campbell family and the senior management of Skyline Group hadn’t bothered to attend, suggesting it wasn’t of great importance, right? How then had Ashton managed to attract nearly every notable figure in Inewood?

This scenario seemed utterly illogical.

Even for their own Sup Group’s branch openings, they had only received congratulatory messages via representatives from a handful of big names.

Such a grand spectacle was beyond anything Jacoby had ever witnessed.

Despite his bewilderment, with so many influential figures around, Jacoby dared not utter any reckless comments. Frustrated, he trailed behind the crowd, secretly awaiting an opportunity to target Ashton again.

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