Chapter 332
The night sky glittered with countless stars, casting their ethereal glow upon the snow-covered city below.
Though winter's chill gripped the outdoors, the Millennia Hotel radiated warmth and opulence. The grand ballroom hosted the 70th birthday celebration of Christopher Prescott, retired political heavyweight.
Every influential figure from business, politics, and military circles had gathered for the occasion.
Crystal chandeliers sparkled overhead while an elaborate mural adorned the walls. The roaring fireplace added to the luxurious ambiance.
Christopher sat regally in his tailored suit, every movement exuding the authority of his political career.
Despite his age, his presence commanded respect. Guests lined up to offer their birthday wishes.
Each attendee represented the elite of society.
Though retired, Christopher's influence remained formidable. His son Jonathan Prescott's current position as provincial governor only added to the family's prestige.
Jonathan and his wife Genevieve greeted guests in the lobby. While Genevieve thrived in the social setting, Jonathan appeared less enthusiastic.
He'd only organized this lavish affair at his father's insistence.
"Happy birthday, Grandfather! May you enjoy everlasting health and prosperity!" Lillian Prescott's melodic voice cut through the chatter.
The rising starlet wore an ivory off-shoulder gown that complemented her delicate features. Her subtle makeup enhanced her natural beauty.
She appeared almost angelic amidst the crowd.
With so many important guests present, Christopher couldn't ignore his granddaughter completely. Yet his response remained tepid. "Thank you for making time in your busy schedule."
Lillian's smile faltered momentarily.
Was that a veiled criticism about her infrequent visits?
She knew her grandfather wouldn't welcome her even if she came. She wasn't one to invite rejection.
Quickly masking her irritation, Lillian produced an ornate gift box. "You're my only grandfather. No schedule could keep me from your birthday. Work can wait, but family comes first..."
Christopher remained unmoved by her sweet words, though his wife Elizabeth beamed with delight.
"How thoughtful, dear Lillian! I heard about your recent overseas filming. Have you recovered from the jet lag?" Elizabeth clasped Lillian's hands affectionately.
Lillian playfully stuck out her tongue. "I'm perfectly fine, Grandmother. I found this gift for Grandfather during my trip. I hope you'll like it."
Elizabeth unwrapped the package eagerly. Inside lay an antique jade tobacco pipe of considerable value.
"Remarkable! Just last week your grandfather mentioned wanting a new pipe. How did you know?" Elizabeth marveled.
Christopher studied Lillian with an unreadable expression but remained silent.
"As long as it pleases Grandfather," Lillian demurred.
She'd overheard her grandparents discussing his pipe collection during a previous visit - perfect inspiration for this gift.
"You spoil your grandfather too much! But I suppose it's his special day," Elizabeth teased, though her fond gaze never left Lillian.
Other guests murmured approvingly at the apparent closeness between grandmother and granddaughter.
Lillian embraced Elizabeth coyly. "Don't be jealous, Grandmother! I brought something for you too!"
At her signal, her agent Tabitha approached with another elegant box.
Elizabeth gasped upon opening it to reveal an exquisite embroidered shawl.
Murmurs of admiration rippled through the female guests.
"Stunning craftsmanship!" "The needlework is extraordinary!"
Tabitha interjected smoothly, "Madam, Lillian personally embroidered this over a month, even turning down film roles to complete it."
The revelation caused another wave of impressed exclamations.
"Lillian did this herself? Incredible!"
"Not just a talented actress but skilled with needlework too!"
"Elizabeth, you're blessed with such a granddaughter!"
"My nephew was recently promoted to general. Perhaps we could arrange an introduction..."
Lillian maintained perfect composure, lowering her eyes modestly at the praise. Her demure act captivated both society ladies and eligible bachelors unaware of her true nature.
Suddenly, a collective gasp echoed through the ballroom.
Lillian turned toward the commotion.
A striking couple had entered.
The man stood tall in his custom-tailored suit, his chiseled features and icy gaze commanding attention. Yet when he looked at the woman beside him, his expression softened noticeably.
Dominic Blackwood, CEO of Titan Corporation.
Genevieve Prescott studied the woman on Dominic's arm, experiencing an unsettling sense of recognition...