Francis smiled as he glanced at Julius, who remained composed.

"If the Oberdeens successfully pass the review, they'll assuredly gain entry into the Association. If not, my hands are tied," Julius remarked. "Mr. Oberdeen, to be frank, had the Hernandezes not secured Association membership by now, our prospects might be similarly bleak."

Aware of Eric's investigation into the Oberdeens and his intention to provoke them, Julius chose his words carefully to indirectly slight Francis.

Francis sne