Theodore Raymond Grey- or Teddy as his two close friends liked to call him- prepared for his parents' grand opening for their antique shop. This was merely the tenth structure built across Seattle, serving as the main attribute for the families substantial wealth.

None of it made sense, of course. Several small buisnesses running on similiar practices fell short on revenue. Which begged the question: How had Christian and Anastasia Grey managed to succeed in sales? Why could they supply neverending fortune to two children, basking in their immaculate lake houses and mansions, when others failed so miserably?

Gah! Running his hands southward Teddy stressed familiar white cotton. This was why he'd been summoned to attend tonight. Too much, Too often, the softhearted man pitied the less fortunate making him an easy target for... What had his father called it?

"Weak-minded control, Theodore Grey! You must wish to possess everything and only then can you learn how this very city ticks."

God-damn Master Of The universe did just that: he possessed everyone within vicinity and still wanted more. More being Christian's son and immediate daughter, Pheobe. Their cousins Ava and Amy were also in the trade after all. It was time to continue the Grey legacy.

As Teddy lifted a hand to ring out drenched brown hair, his IPhone blared across the room, causing him to race towards it. Oh. 'Lil Pheobe' calling to check that things were in order. Or rather that her older twenty year-old brother hadn't chickened out. Again.

Taking a deep breath, he answered:

"Burn down the shop already?"

"Ha, ha. Funny. No. Actually called to see-"

Weird that the literal eighteen year-old baby of both siblings felt the need to act as caretaker.

"To see if I'm about ready? Yes. just finished showering. Don't worry. I won't tarnish the family name anymore. Did it for long enough."

Pheobe fell silent, stuttering incoherantly.

"Ted. I... You... No."

"Quit lying on my behalf, sis. Tried avoiding becoming some sleazy CEO but acting as a philanthropist just won't raise enough for a living."

The usually stern female sighed pitifully.

"Things aren't as daunting as you think. Seriously. After a few years you'll see why it's so important to step in daddies shoes."

Yeah. That would be the day. As in never. Everyone knew Theodore Grey wasn't meant for cutthroat dealings. Meek Teddy. That had been his nickname fashioned during high school.

"Sure. Can I get dressed?"

"Ugh. Yes. And remember the special tie mom bought for Christmas."

"Remind me again, why she purchases items with bubbles and triangles?"

Only the sound of an ended call echoed through the reciever. Their mother likely loved public torment. That's why.