The crowd murmured, people leaning forward in their chairs.

“Please join me in welcoming the sole owner and principal of Apex Realty Group, Ms. Jocelyn Vance.”

The applause started at the front tables and swept back through the room.

I stood up and stepped to the podium.

The light from the spotlight was warm on my face.

I looked out at the sea of faces, finding Graham and Gloria in the middle of the room.

Graham looked as if he had been struck. His mouth was slightly open.

Gloria was leaning heavily on the table, her knuckles white against the tablecloth.

“Thank you,” I said into the microphone.

My voice was steady. It did not shake.

“Five years ago, I started Apex Realty Group with a simple vision,” I said. “To build a portfolio that would stand the test of time, free from the burden of old names and outdated legacies.”

I paused, letting the words hang in the air.

“We have spent the last few months acquiring several distressed portfolios in the Dallas area,” I continued. “Today, I am proud to announce that Apex has finalized the purchase of all outstanding debt and physical assets of Ralston Enterprises.”