Sebastian had just returned to his villa when his phone rang. He glanced at the caller ID. Mom. He loosened his tie before answering. “Mom.” A graceful but authoritative voice came from the other end. “Sebastian, are you home?” “Yes.” “Good.” “I’ve been waiting for you to finish your dinner.” Sebastian frowned slightly. “You knew I was having dinner?” Mrs. Hayes chuckled. “My son, there isn’t much that happens in this city without reaching my ears.” She paused for a moment before getting straight to the point. “I heard you’re planning to marry Camilla.” Sebastian smiled. “That’s right.” “I’ll be bringing her home soon.” Instead of sounding pleased… Mrs. Hayes sighed. “Sebastian.” “I’m calling to advise you against it.” His smile slowly disappeared. “What do you mean?” “I don’t think Camilla is the right woman for you.” Sebastian frowned. “Mom, what’s wrong with her?” “There are many things wrong with her.” Mrs. Hayes replied calmly. “First, she’s a divorce

That afternoon… Luxury cars continuously arrived outside the Blackstone Chamber of Commerce. Rolls-Royces, Bentleys and Ferraris. The parking lot quickly became a showcase of wealth and influence. The annual Blackstone Business Banquet had officially begun. Business elites from all over the country stepped onto the red carpet one after another. Reporters crowded both sides of the entrance, cameras flashing nonstop. “That’s Chairman Victor of Titan Group!” “Over there! It’s the CEO of Evergreen Holdings!” “Hurry! Get a picture!” Inside the banquet hall… Crystal chandeliers illuminated the magnificent venue. A massive stage stood at the center, while hundreds of elegantly decorated tables surrounded it. Every seat represented status. The closer one sat to the stage… The greater their influence in the business world. At the entrance… Sebastian stepped out of his black Bentley. He adjusted his expensive suit before flashing a confident smile. Several business owners imme

The banquet hall remained eerily quiet. Everyone looked at Dominic with completely different eyes. The respect they had shown him before was because of his connections. Now… It came from genuine admiration. The elderly founder slowly returned the microphone to Howard Blake. His face was filled with gratitude. “I’ve said everything I wanted to say.” “The rest of the evening belongs to all of you.” Howard accepted the microphone with both hands. His voice carried an unmistakable respect. “Chairman Blackstone…” “Thank you.” He then looked toward Dominic. “Mr. Dominic.” “Would you honor us by saying a few words?” Countless expectant eyes immediately turned toward him. Dominic sighed softly. He had never enjoyed being the center of attention. Still… He slowly walked onto the stage. His steady footsteps echoed throughout the silent hall. When he reached the podium, he glanced around the room. Instead of the proud expression everyone expected… There was only calmness.

Adrian's smile slowly faded after Dominic's calm response.For the first time since he had stepped forward, he felt completely ignored.He had expected anger.He had expected Dominic to defend himself.Instead...Dominic had treated him as though he wasn't worth responding to.A faint chuckle escaped several businessmen nearby.Adrian's face darkened."You..."Before he could continue, Chairman Blackstone raised his cane slightly."Mr. Adrian.""This is a banquet.""Not a place to pick unnecessary fights."The warning was calm.But everyone understood its meaning. Adrian forced a smile."Of course.""I was merely curious."He shot Dominic one last look before returning to his seat.However...The resentment in his eyes only grew stronger.A few minutes later...The music inside the hall changed.The soft melody of a violin drifted through the room.Howard Blake stepped onto the stage with a smile."To help everyone relax before the charity auction...""We've arranged a dance.""Ladies

Chapter 48The next morning, Camilla arrived at Sterling Group much earlier than usual.She barely slept the previous night. Every time she closed her eyes, Dominic's calm face and the thunderous applause at the Blackstone Chamber replayed in her mind. She had spent hours convincing herself to forget everything and focus on work.After all, work had always been the one thing she excelled at.As she walked into the company lobby, employees immediately greeted her."Good morning, Ms. Camilla.""Morning, President Camilla."She acknowledged them with a slight nod before stepping into the elevator.The moment she entered her office, her secretary, Lily, hurried in with a nervous expression."President Camilla..."Camilla looked up from her desk."What is it?"Lily hesitated for a moment before placing a document on the table."There has been... a change regarding the West River Commercial District project."Camilla immediately straightened in her chair."What change?""I thought today's m