The news anchor’s voice echoed on the screen,through the halls of Umbratech headquarters. "Breaking news—Umbratech has unveiled the world's first hypersonic missile capable of striking any target across the globe in under five minutes. Experts say this advancement cements Umbratech as the top weapon supplier on the planet, securing our nation’s place as a military superpower." On the screen, images of the missile's successful test launch played, smoke trailing behind it as it tore through the sky. The gathered reporters clapped in unison, their faces were beaming with excitement. While the headlines flashed across the room: “Umbratech Leads the World”The Man Who Changed Global Defense”. Cameras flashed and Reporters shouted his name. Someone called out to him “How does it feel to lead the most advanced defense company in history?” Another reporter chimed in, “What’s next for Umbratech, Are you planning even more groundbreaking developments?” The voices of the crowd on the screen

A black Maybach was parked under the shade of a dying tree. Adams sat in the passenger seat, tapping through his tablet. He looked like he hadn’t slept in three days. Elias on the other hand, was dressed in a cheap black suit that didn’t fit his usual appearance, he leaned back, with his arm resting casually on the wheel. “Board meeting in Houston’s been moved to Friday,” Adams began, “Logistics signed the Denver deal. Clean sweep. Our legal team shut down that patent claim from SolCore. Elias nodded. Adams shifted beside him “Also—San Diego’s factory audit came back clean. No union sniffing around. We can -- “Is it done?” Elias asked. Adams froze. “Oh. Right, that.” He fumbled with the screen, muttering curses under his breath. Finally, he handed over the tablet. “Here it is, sir.” Elias took it with one hand. His eyes moved, scanning the tablet. There was no expression on his face. Only silence remained. Adams cleared his throat. “Her name is Luna Ryelle West. Daug

Ryan gave a small grunt and walked away . Chloe followed, only adjusting the front of her dress. Neither of them acknowledged Elias or the box he still held out. As they turned to go, Elias stood still, with the small gift box still in his hand. Chloe’s shoulder had bumped it, knocking it sideways. She didn’t bother to look back. There was no apology from her. No acknowledgment. Only the sound of her heels tapping against the marble as she walked off toward the dining room remained. on the other hand,Ryan didn’t even glance at him. As if Elias didn’t exist. Luna hesitated by the door, she glanced back at him with a flicker of guilt in her eyes. She looked like she wanted to say something, but her mother called her name sharply. So she turned away. And just like that, Elias was alone.He showed no reaction to what had just happened,But inside, something burned. He could’ve flown in a rare sculpture from Europe, custom-commissioned by a dead artist, and they would’ve still l

Elias smiled Not because anything was funny—but because to him, Fredrick had already lost. He just didn’t know it yet. Fredrick hadn’t earned anything. Not the respect, not the girl, and definitely not Harold’s approval. he wasnow like a clown in an overpriced suit, performing for applause that never came. Across the table, Luna’s patience snapped. “That’s enough,” she said, “You don’t get to talk down to him.” Fredrick’s smirk twitched. He turned his full attention to Elias. “Oh, I’m just getting started.” Elias leaned back, “Then start with this—what did you bring?” Fredrick straightened like he’d been waiting for the spotlight all night. “Glad you asked.” He gave a signal. Two servants entered, carrying a glass display case. Inside sat a green jade Buddha. “Five hundred thousand dollars,” Fredrick announced. “Ming Dynasty. Certified antique. One of a kind.” Ryan clapped while Chloe gasped. They were all shocked. Only Harold didn’t react. But Fredrick wasn’t do

Fredrick had played his hand well so far—hadn't pushed too hard, hadn't exposed his full intentions. But the evening was far from over, and he still had one more card to play. “Like I previously said,” he began smoothly, Adams will be arriving in the city tomorrow.”He paused before continuing. “He’s taking time out of his busy schedule to visit. We thought a banquet would be a fitting welcome for such an important guest.”Fredrick turned his focus to Harold, locking eyes with him as if gauging his reaction.“What do you think, sir?” Fredrick asked, “Perhaps you and your family would join us this evening? It would be good for Adams to meet everyone here.”Harold didn’t hesitate. “Of course. That sounds like a fine idea.” Fredrick’salmost smiled but he was careful not to let it show too much. His plan was falling into place just as he intended.Harold’s gaze shifted briefly to Elias. It was a brief moment, but Fredrick didn’t miss it. Harold had just looked at Elias like he was asses