“Congratulations on acquiring the Thompson Group, Mr. Shaw.”
“Mr. Shaw, does taking over the Thompson Group mean there’s good news coming soon for you and Ms. Thompson?”
The moment word got out that Adrian and Selene were seeing each other, all of high society in the capital was abuzz. Many of the business elite attending today weren’t just here for the deal—they were hoping to catch the juiciest gossip firsthand.
Adrian stood relaxed, one hand in the pocket of his tailored slacks, his jacket creased where his fingers had gripped the fabric.
“If Selene and I have any good news to share in the future, you’ll be the first to know,” he said, his voice even and assured.
The message was clear—Adrian and Selene’s relationship was no rumor. The room practically vibrated with excitement.
“We’ll be waiting for it, then!” someone called out, earning a ripple of laughter.
“Really, Ms. Thompson’s luck—who wouldn’t envy it?” another guest added, shaking her head in mock admiration.
The teasing was in full swing when, abruptly, a hush swept through part of the crowd. Faces shifted, eyes darted toward the entrance.
Adrian turned to see what had caught everyone’s attention. Harrison had just arrived, his secretary trailing behind. Dressed in a sharp black suit, Harrison carried himself with an imposing authority that seemed to press back the crowd as he strode directly toward Adrian. It was as if two invisible forces were colliding, the tension palpable.
Harrison’s gaze was cold and piercing, chilling as a serpent’s touch. If Adrian was sunlight—radiant and easy—then Harrison was a shadow, a perpetual midnight that even daylight couldn’t penetrate.
After his scandal, Victor had been forced to step down from the company. With the press everywhere, he wouldn’t dare show his face at the acquisition ceremony, but his name still carried weight. Just a note from him was enough to get Harrison through security.
Harrison planted himself in front of Adrian, fixing him with a steady look. “I’m here to congratulate Selene and the Shaw Group on their new partnership,” he announced.
He glanced around, pitching his voice so everyone nearby could hear. “Even though Selene and I are divorced, we still care about each other. Victor remains my father-in-law, and Vaughn Enterprises will continue to support the Thompson family, as always.”
A ripple of surprise and speculation moved through the guests. These were the city’s elite—quick to sense a shift in the social wind. Was there a chance Harrison and Selene might reconcile after all?
The click of low heels echoed across the marble floor. Selene, dressed in a chic women’s suit, stepped into the room, poised and unruffled, ready to face the ceremony—and whatever dramas might unfold.

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