Chapter 50The office door swung open, and Eleanor stepped inside with a blue leather folder tucked neatly beneath her arm. She was dressed in a cream-colored business suit that accentuated her graceful figure, while her long, wavy hair rested effortlessly over one shoulder. There was a gentle smile on her face as she entered, but it vanished the instant her eyes landed on Camilla.She paused.For a brief moment, the atmosphere inside the office became strangely tense."I'm sorry," Eleanor said politely, offering Dominic an apologetic smile. "I didn't realize you had company. I can come back later."Before she could turn around, Dominic spoke."There's no need." His voice was calm, carrying the same confidence it always did."We're finished here."He walked toward her naturally and took the folder from her hand, his fingers brushing lightly against hers."Thank you."Eleanor nodded with a small smile."I've brought the revised proposal you wanted to review.""I'll look at it in a mome

Chapter 52Sebastian slammed his fist onto his desk, causing the expensive mahogany table to shake violently. The glass of whiskey beside him tipped over, its amber contents spilling across several documents, but he didn't even glance at it.His phone rang again. The caller ID displayed another supplier's name.Without hesitation, he answered."What is it now?""Mr. Sebastian..." the man said cautiously. "I've already instructed my finance department to return the money your company transferred."Sebastian's face darkened."I don't want my money back.""I want you to honor our agreement.""I'm sorry.""There is no agreement anymore.""What did Dominic promise you?" Sebastian demanded through gritted teeth."Did he offer you more money?"The supplier fell silent before replying, "Mr. Dominic didn't offer us anything.""Then why are you backing out?""Because..."The man hesitated."Our company has worked with Blackcrest International for over ten years.""If we lose their trust...""We

Chapter 54Saturday arrived sooner than anyone expected.From early morning, the entire city seemed to be buzzing with excitement.The annual Business Excellence Gala was all anyone could talk about. News outlets covered the preparations, luxury brands showcased their latest collections, and the city's elite competed to make the grandest entrance.At Sterling Group, Camilla stood in front of the floor-to-ceiling mirror in her office, adjusting the sleeves of her white designer suit.Lily knocked gently before entering."President Camilla, your evening gown has been delivered."Camilla nodded absentmindedly."Leave it there."Lily carefully placed the elegant black gown on the sofa before hesitating."President Camilla...""What is it?""I heard something from one of Blackcrest International's employees."Camilla looked up."What did you hear?""They say tonight's gala won't just be an award ceremony.""The founder of Blackcrest International is expected to announce a major investment

Chapter 56The applause lingered for several moments before gradually subsiding.Yet the atmosphere in the ballroom had completely changed.Just minutes ago, Dominic had been someone many regarded as an ordinary man who had gotten lucky.No one dared look at him the same way.As he stepped down from the stage, dozens of influential businessmen immediately surrounded him."Mr. Dominic, I'm Victor Lawson from Lawson Holdings. It's an honor to finally meet you.""My name is Harold Grant. I'd love the opportunity to have dinner with you sometime.""Mr. Dominic, this is my business card. I hope we can work together in the future."One after another, the city's elite introduced themselves.Each of them wore warm smiles, afraid of making a bad first impression.Dominic accepted the business cards politely but remained his usual humble self."Thank you.""I appreciate your kindness."His calm demeanor only made the crowd admire him even more.A man who could receive such respect without becom

Chapter 58The ballroom became deathly silent.The host smiled mysteriously before slowly pulling away the velvet cloth.A collective gasp swept through the audience.Resting inside the glass display case was an old silver wristwatch.Unlike the priceless antiques auctioned earlier, the watch wasn't decorated with diamonds or rare gemstones.It looked... ordinary. Several guests exchanged confused glances.Someone whispered,"A wristwatch?""Why would Blackcrest International auction something like that?"The host smiled knowingly."I know what everyone is thinking.""Compared to tonight's other items, this watch appears insignificant.""But sometimes...""...the value of an object isn't measured by its appearance."He paused dramatically."Years ago, when Blackcrest International was on the brink of collapse, its founder was desperately trying to secure funding.""He visited countless investors.""He was rejected every single time."The founder lowered his head slightly, a nostalgic