“Secure Pay has been my focus for the past two years,” I explained, keeping my tone professional. “We have developed a secure platform for cryptocurrency transactions that addresses many of the security concerns that have limited mainstream adoption.”
“Two years?” my father repeated. “You have been working on this while completing your degree. Why did you not ask for my help or advice? I have considerable financial experience that could have benefited you.”
The question struck me as so tone-deaf that I almost laughed.
“I did not think you would be interested. You made it clear early on that I was expected to handle my education independently.”
Several of my classmates were still hovering nearby, clearly intrigued by the family dynamics playing out before them.
I spotted Jessica making her way toward us, her expression concerned. She had heard enough stories about my parents to recognize when I might need backup.
“Mr. and Mrs. Williams,” Jessica said as she joined us, extending her hand. “I am Jessica Rodriguez, Harper’s friend and now Chief Operating Officer at Secure Pay. Your daughter is the most brilliant person I have ever met. You must be thrilled to have raised such an innovator.”
My father shook her hand automatically, his business instincts taking over. “Of course, very pleased. The Williams family has a tradition of excellence.”
Cassandra, who had been unusually quiet, finally spoke up. “Is it true what they said? You are actually a billionaire now?”
There was no jealousy in her question—just genuine curiosity and perhaps a hint of awe.
For the first time, I wondered if Cassandra had been as trapped in our parents’ dynamics as I had been—cast in the role of the indulged favorite, just as I had been cast as the overlooked achiever.
