Chapter 221 You're Beautiful
The Eastvale Development Group, security department's conference room.
Robin was deep into the TrustGen Loans paperwork when Carson's call interrupted him.
"Mr. Ramsey, I mentioned Brookhaven Martial Alliance's plan to open a branch in Harmonfield. Today's the big day. Do you have time to join us for the inauguration?"
Robin barely looked up, responding, "Sure, I'll finish up here and head over. Where's it being held?"
"If you're free, I can pick you up, and we'll head to the Harmonfield Hotel together," Carson suggested.
Robin checked the clock, then shook his head. "No need to come out of your way. Just send me the details, and I'll meet you there."
Carson, understanding, quickly texted over the address and time for the ceremony at Harmonfield Hotel's Crown Banquet.
...
The Crown Banquet was alive with grandeur, each corner decked in vibrant splendor and filled with an air of anticipation.
It was the day the Brookhaven Martial Alliance would officially launch its Harmonfield branch.
Representatives from each alliance chapter in Draconia were in attendance, along with the formidable six elder enforcers from the main headquarters.
Guests ranged from the most influential families of Brookhaven and Harmonfield to martial arts practitioners across Draconia, famed family heads, and notable figures from the state's social elite.
By 9 a.m., the hotel's opulent walls stood witness to the arrival of dignitaries from every corner.
Among them, Ruby had spared nothing in her preparations, hiring stylists and image consultants to achieve a flawless look.
Spending six-figure later, she sported a refined hairstyle, artfully applied makeup, and a gown that spoke of elegance and luxury.
As she stepped into the ballroom, the heads of numerous high-society guests turned to admire her.
Wilhelm Dixon, the Dixon Group's second son—and a close ally of the Alliance from the provincial capital—caught sight of Ruby descending the staircase.
He wasted no time, approaching with a courteous smile, offering his arm as he escorted her into the center of the hall.
"Ruby, you're absolutely captivating tonight," he said, with a warmth that left little doubt about his admiration.
The Dixon Group held an essential role as one of Brookhaven Martial Alliance's primary financial pillars.
The Dixons and the Quinns had been allies for generations.
Wilhelm, the second son of the Dixons, had admired Ruby for as long as he could remember.
But with the Alliance towering over them in influence, Dixon Group remained modest in stature.
So Wilhelm kept his admiration hidden, unspoken, as if silence could shield him from the consequences of his desires.
Tonight, Ruby stood at the center of the ballroom, carrying herself with the poise of a queen. Wilhelm felt his heart thud as he followed her every movement, eager to attend to her slightest whim.
Just then, a young man with striking features strode from the crowd, his confident smile aimed straight at Ruby. "Ruby, you look breathtaking tonight! I almost didn't recognize you."
Ruby lifted her chin, a hint of a smile curling at her lips. "Oh? So you're saying I don't usually look this good?" she teased, her laugh light and melodic.
The young man was Finn Eaton, son of Cade Eaton, the Alliance's Chief Elder of Discipline.
A rising star, Finn was known among Brookhaven's younger generation for his unmatched skill and intensity.
With Cade being Ronald's first disciple, Finn and Ruby had grown up side by side, building a bond that ran deep.
From his youth, Finn had admired her, with all the fervor and uncertainty of young love.
Ruby had sensed his affection long ago, yet, in her mind, Finn never quite reached the standard she envisioned.
Still, she never spoke of it, enjoying the unspoken adoration, as if the men drawn to her were stars revolving around her own sun.
This attention filled her with a heady sense of satisfaction.
In moments, Ruby became the centerpiece of the entire banquet hall.
Around her gathered a circle of young men, each one striving to catch her attention, each one hoping for a hint of her favor.
And Ruby drank it all in, delighting in the flattery and admiration as if they were offerings made to royalty.
Under the glittering chandelier, Ruby stood, her long hair cascading over her shoulders, and her gown radiating elegance and opulence.
Around her, voices murmured praise, words laced with admiration, envy, and wonder.
It filled her with a quiet exhilaration.
Tonight, the grand hall of the Brookhaven Martial Alliance was, without question, her stage.
She was certain everyone here would pay her the respect she deserved.
Ruby had been raised in such an atmosphere—surrounded by adoration, spoiled by endless indulgence.
She was used to the feeling, and she basked in it now, catching the awe, reverence, and, perhaps, a touch of flattery in the eyes that followed her. A calm pride settled over her.
Kyler appeared from the back of the hall, pausing as he took in his daughter's appearance, the elegance she wore like a second skin. A glint of approval crossed his face.
"Ruby, you look perfect. Show our guests the respect they deserve," he said, smiling as he greeted each guest with a polite wave.
Then, with a purposeful stride, he made his way toward the hotel entrance.
There was someone significant to greet—Wilder Lennon, the esteemed president of the Draconia Holistic Medicine and Health Association.
Ronald himself had extended the invitation, personally.
Wilder was not only Apollo's most respected disciple but had recently made waves by curing the illnesses of Martin and Timothy.
For decades, Ronald had battled a strange affliction of his own. In Wilder, he hoped to find the relief he had long sought.
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