“Mr. Whitmore,” Holloway addressed the manager, his voice steady and authoritative. “It appears this young man is indeed the holder of an account with us. The account, in fact, was established by his grandmother, Eleanor Brooks, a respected client of ours for many years.”

Bradley’s face turned ashen as he stammered, “But, I… I thought it was a scam…”

Ignoring the flustered manager, Mr. Holloway turned back to Wesley. “I’m very sorry for the behavior you’ve encountered today, Wesley.

Your grandmother was a valued customer, and we owe you the respect and service due to any client of this bank.”

The onlookers, who moments ago were unified in derision, now shifted uncomfortably. The wealthy customer who had demanded Wesley’s removal lowered his gaze, while Chelsea Morrison took a step back, her earlier disdain replaced by embarrassment.