Reborn From Oblivion

In prestigious circles like the Rowlands, McCoys, Dawsons, and Sharps, family heads were seasoned veterans with an uncanny knack for reading people. Getting their nod meant you were a strong contender for the family business mantle someday. The Dawsons had once pinned their hopes on Cameron, but now, with Carter in the spotlight, the line of succession at Dawson International seemed anything but clear. Watching Carter soak up the limelight and chat animatedly with the bigwigs made Cameron feel the heat of looming competition. His face darkened, and it stayed that way.

And sure enough, trouble comes in threes. A teasing voice broke through, "Hey, has our dear Cameron lost his edge?"

Cameron turned to see Benjamin, his good buddy, approaching with two glasses of Scotch. Handing one over, Benjamin said, "Cameron, don't say I didn't give you a heads-up. Tossing aside your steady partner for a fleeting crush was a rookie move. Now look, you've practically rolled out the red carpet for your rival. See how he's winning the big shots over?"

Cameron shot back, "Look who's talking. Aren't you in a similar jam? I heard your brother's back in town."

Benjamin scoffed, "He's just a rookie. He's not worth fretting over."

"A rookie, huh? But Mason and Theo back him, and as long as he stays out of trouble, your position could be shaky, Benjamin."

Benjamin's eyes darkened, and his grip on the glass tightened. "Both Grandpa and father are getting up there in age. You know, once someone steps down, their influence fades."

Cameron shook his head. "They say older is wiser."

"No, no. I've heard the new generation surpasses the old. Right now, the Rowlands are running the show, and my folks are the real deal."

Their chat was cut short by a sudden stir in the banquet hall.

"Wow, he's stunning!"

"Who is he? I've never seen him before."

"He's gotta be a celeb brought in to jazz things up, right?"

"Which celebrity has that kind of presence?"

Nathan made his entrance in a sleek black suit, standing a solid six feet tall. His youthful yet composed aura set him apart, with handsome features that exuded a maturity beyond his years.

Mason and Theo couldn't hide their delight as they made a beeline for Nathan.

"Nathan, what took you so long?" Mason playfully scolded him, his affection clear as day.

With a tender smile, Theo held Nathan's hand and exclaimed, "You rascal, I thought you were having a hard time out there! I was worried sick. But look at you. You've not only bulked up but also shot up! Ha, it seems like you've had a pretty good year." Then, with a touch of pride, Theo added, "Just what I'd expect from my grandson."

Mason interrupted, "My grandson."

The two old friends bantered lightheartedly in front of everyone.

Meanwhile, Nathan's gaze settled intently on Cameron from across the room.

Cameron was baffled. Wasn't Nathan supposed to be at odds with Benjamin? So why was he staring at him?

Nathan politely excused himself from Mason and Theo, "Grandfather, Grandpa, if you'll excuse me for a moment."

He walked over to Cameron, extending a friendly hand, his smile deeply engaging. "Mr. Dawson, I've heard a lot about you."