The theater owner's face contorted with disdain as he spoke to Brendan. "Mr. Brighthall, pay no attention to this nobody's words. I've never met this gentleman before, so why would I let him call the shots in my theater?"

The owner's displeasure was evident, as he valued his reputation and wouldn't tolerate anyone trying to take advantage of him.

"Is that so?" Brendan pretended to be unaware, fully aware of the truth. "So, everything he said about you bowing down to his commands was a lie?"

T