The restaurant director raised his hand, silencing Jordan mid-sentence. The gesture was subtle but unmistakably authoritative. Jordan's mouth closed, his surprise evident in the slight widening of his eyes.
The director turned toward Zane and Emma. Then, to everyone's astonishment, he bowed his head deeply.
"Mr. Hayes," the director said, his voice carrying a deference that was impossible to miss. "I must sincerely apologize for this misunderstanding."
A murmur rippled through the group. Jordan's companions exchanged confused glances.
"This was not... This was never meant to happen," the director continued, genuine distress coloring his voice. He straightened and gestured toward the grand staircase at the far end of the dining room. "You were supposed to be escorted to the Diamond Section upon arrival."
Emma's hand found Zane's under the table, squeezing gently. Zane's expression remained carefully neutral despite the surprised elevation of his eyebrows.
