Rise of The Masked Billionaire Magnate

The Humiliating Banquet

Chapter 1

The grand ballroom buzzed with cheerful sounds as everyone feasted happily, obviously having the best time of their lives.

Everyone was sharply dressed... the men in high quality tuxedos, and the women in sparkling dinner dresses. 

The celebration was being held in honor of Elena, marking a remarkable milestone in her life and career, as she had just landed a huge contract with the mighty Wellington Empire.

She stood at the center of the room, looking stunning in her emerald gown that hugged her frame perfectly. 

Her face shone with pride as she raised her glass to the crowd of dignitaries who gathered to celebrate with her.

"This deal is huge for Thompson Enterprises," Elena announced, her voice strong and confident. "We've locked in a massive contract with the Wellington Empire. It's going to change everything. We beat out all the competition because of my hard work and smart planning!”

Everyone clapped and cheered, toasting to her success. 

The Wellington Empire was a giant company, controlling everything from tech gadgets to big tech and investment buildings around the world. Landing a deal with them was like winning the lottery in the business world. 

Elena soaked it all in, her cheeks wide with smiles as compliments came her way.

Sitting quietly at the end of the head table was Alexander, known to everyone as Alex, Elena's husband. Or better still, her doormat... the family's pushover.

He wore a plain suit that didn't fit quite right, the kind that was sold cheap at a discount store. He looked out of place among all the wealthy conglomerates and investors in the room, but he sat there calmly, watching everything with a steady gaze. 

No one paid him much attention except to glance over with pity or annoyance. For three years, he'd been the guy everyone whispered about... the unemployed husband who lived off Elena's success. He didn't say much, he just nodded politely when spoken to.

Elena moved through the crowd, shaking hands and making connections.

Her mother, Victoria Thompson, stood nearby, dressed in pearls and a luxurious fur wrap. She had that commanding presence... always confident and quick to give a sharp remark.

She glanced at Alex from across the table, then leaned in to whisper to a group of guests—loud enough for others nearby to hear. “Look at him, just sitting there like a statue. Elena, honey, why do you even put up with that freeloader? He couldn’t get a job if his life depended on it. Even flipping burgers would be too much for him.”

A few people chuckled, and Alex heard it all. He didn't react, just took a small sip of water from his glass… his expression unreadable.

But the night was far from over. 

Elena's cousin, Brittany, a young lady with bright blonde hair and a tight designer dress, walked by the table. She was spoiled rotten, always acting like the world owed her something.

As she passed Alex, she bumped her wine glass, spilling red wine right onto his lap. The stain spread quickly across his pants.

"Oops! Watch it, you clumsy idiot," Brittany snapped, even though it was obvious she'd done it deliberately.

Her friends giggled behind her, covering their mouths like it was the funniest thing ever.

Alex stayed calm. He picked up a napkin and started dabbing at the mess, not saying a word. But Victoria jumped on it like a hawk spotting its prey. 

She stood up, pointing a finger at him. "Alex, you worthless fool! How dare you ruin Brittany's night like this? Apologize right now. It's the least you can do after living off our family for so long."

The room went silent. All eyes turned to Alex. Whispers filled the air, everyone watching like spectators.

Elena's face turned red with embarrassment. Her perfect night was about to get ruined. 

Alex looked up at Victoria, his eyes steady and unflinching. 

His voice came out even, not loud or angry. "I won't apologize for something I didn't do."

Gasps echoed through the ballroom. 

Victoria's mouth dropped open, like she couldn't believe he'd talk back. "You ungrateful little brat! Elena, will you just stand there and watch him ruin your celebration?!”

Elena stormed over, her heels clicking hard on the marble floor. She grabbed Alex's arm, her nails digging into his flesh.

"How dare you talk to my mother like that? You're embarrassing me in front of everyone! Get out... right now!"

Security guards appeared out of nowhere, dressed in black suits. They grabbed Alex by the shoulders and started pulling him towards the exit. 

The crowd watched, some jeering as they dragged him out.

"Good riddance!" someone shouted. 

"Take out the trash!" another added with a laugh.

Alex didn't fight back. He walked with them, his head held high, that calm expression still on his face. 

As they reached the doors, his phone buzzed in his pocket. He pulled it out just enough to glance at the screen, and his eyes narrowed when he saw the message.