The countdown continued to fall.04:36The giant timer glowed above the stage while hundreds of eyes remained fixed on Nicholas.Nobody spoke.Even the reporters lowered their microphones, unwilling to miss whatever happened next.Nicholas looked at the screen once before calmly unlocking his phone.Julian’s lips curved into a faint smile.“So,” he said loud enough for everyone nearby to hear, “you’ve finally accepted reality.”Nicholas didn’t even glance at him.Inside his vision, the familiar crimson System interface quietly appeared.【Today’s Daily Spending Allocation: $55,000,000】A second notification appeared almost immediately.【Special Acquisition Recommendation】Grand Meridian Convention CenterIncluding Grand Meridian Event Management GroupPurchase Price: $55,000,000Nicholas’ eyes narrowed slightly.A smile slowly appeared on his face.“So that’s today’s investment.”Without another thought, he pressed Confirm.The crimson interface immediately responded.【Purchase Success

Every guard immediately stood straighter. He raised a finger toward Julian. "Escort Mr. Julian Peterson out."The guards exchanged uncertain glances. Only minutes ago, Julian had been giving them orders. Now the situation had completely changed.Hayes looked at them firmly. "You heard Chairman Peterson. He is now the owner of this property. Carry out his instruction."The hesitation disappeared. Two guards walked toward Julian."Mr. Peterson… we're sorry."Julian's face darkened. "Don't touch me."Neither guard answered. They gently but firmly took hold of his arms. Camera flashes exploded across the ballroom as every reporter rushed forward. Nobody wanted to miss another public defeat involving the Peterson family.Julian struggled once. Then he suddenly stopped. His breathing slowly returned to normal, and a strange calm settled over him. He allowed the guards to lead him toward the exit.When he reached Nicholas, he paused. He leaned slightly closer so that nobody else could hear.

The taxi rolled to a smooth stop outside the Imperial Club. Nicholas stepped out, adjusted the sleeve of his dark jacket, and lifted his eyes toward the magnificent building standing before him. The club looked less like a private gathering place and more like an old royal palace. Golden lights spilled from every floor. Luxury cars worth millions lined both sides of the entrance, each one drawing flashes from photographers waiting behind velvet barriers. Young heirs, celebrities, entrepreneurs, and socialites walked confidently toward the entrance while reporters eagerly called out their names. 

Last Updated : 2026-08-12