"That label isn't exactly flattering in the public eye, is it?" I said quietly. "People love to mock anyone who climbs their way up using their parents' or spouse's money."
"They do," Marissa agreed calmly. "But think about it … how hard would it be to climb a ladder covered in thorns without wearing proper shoes? The public might use that label as an insult, but in reality, that same status will shield you in this industry."
"This industry is a jungle, Helcia," Marissa said seriously. "If you walk into it barehanded, the predators will devour you whole. That's why people need to know you're somebody, or at least someone dangerous to touch without consequence."
The public might see Lando as nothing more than the Brixtons' illegitimate son, a cripple who held no value in his family. Yet, no matter what they thought, he still carried the Brixton name, and Victor Brixton would likely put on a show, pretending to defend his son just to polish his image in front of the world.
