The Tycoon's Odyssey

Upon hearing Daniel's words, Evan couldn't help but chuckle, his expression calm and unbothered. "Let him run. He's not a threat. I have eyes on him and Sonalika. They won't be able to get away from my grasp no matter how much they try."

Before Daniel could respond, a soft voice called out. "Evan, are you ready? We'll be late."

Evan turned to see Suri approaching. She was dressed in a flowing floral gown that complemented her graceful movements. She was focused on adjusting an earring into place, her delicate features framed by loose strands of hair.

Daniel's heart skipped a beat as he watched her approach, but the moment he felt Evan's sharp gaze on him, an icy chill ran down his spine. He quickly looked away, fumbling for an excuse. "Uh, I'll let you two be. Nice meeting you, Miss… uh… Suri. Evan, I'll catch you later."

With that, Daniel hurried off, clearly feeling uncomfortable under Evan's intense glare.

Evan smirked faintly, then turned his attention back to Suri. "You look stunning tonight," he said softly, stepping closer.n/ô/vel/b//jn dot c//om

Suri glanced up at him, a hint of warmth touching her usually calm expression. "Thank you. But this earring refuses to cooperate."

Evan took the earring from her hand with a steady grip. "Here, let me help."

She tilted her head slightly while Evan carefully fastened the earring, his fingers gently brushing lightly against her skin as his voice was low and steady. "This dress suits you perfectly. You'll steal the spotlight tonight."

Suri smiled faintly, meeting his gaze. "You always know what to say."

Evan stepped back, his expression softening as he looked at her. "It's not just words. You look incredible."

For a moment, the noise of the bustling lobby seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of them in quiet understanding.

Breaking the silence, Suri asked, "What about Father and Mother? Are they here already?"

Evan shook his head. "No, they're heading straight to the venue. We should go; they'll be waiting."

Suri nodded, accepting his offered arm. Together, the couple walked towards the event, the weight of the world momentarily set aside as they prepared for the grand night ahead.

_____

The grand banquet hall of The Royal Pavilion Hotel was a vision of luxury and splendor.

Massive crystal chandeliers bathed the space in a warm golden glow, their soft light reflecting off the polished marble floors and intricately carved walls. Tables draped in fine white linens held arrangements of exotic flowers, while waiters in crisp uniforms moved seamlessly among the guests, offering champagne and hors d'oeuvres. The air buzzed with lively conversations, laughter, and the clinking of glasses as the society's elite mingled.

Evan entered the hall, his arm holding Suri's. The arrival of the couple immediately captured the attention of the crowd. Evan's sharply tailored suit emphasized his commanding aura, while Suri's floral gown flowed elegantly around her, her beauty leaving many guests spellbound. Whispers rippled through the attendees, a mix of admiration, curiosity, and envy.

Both of them took steady steps, matching each other rhythm

"They look perfect together," someone murmured.

"Suri is as gorgeous as ever, but who is this handsome guy?" asked another.

"Huh! I am not sure but it might be Evan."

"Evan! Who?"

"The owner of Next Gen Tech!"

"What? Is that the guy behind tech revolutions?" The chatters went on, creating murmurs.

This prompted Evan to puff his chin with pride, a smug smile playing on his lips, something that made Suri stifle a chuckle.

Evan then looked around before leaning closer to Suri, his voice low but clear. "Isn't your mother's family supposed to be here?"

Suri shook her head slightly. "I don't think so. They don't usually attend events outside their region, especially the ones like this."

Evan nodded, briefly considering asking Aurora about it, then deciding against it. If Suri's uncle or another family member showed up, he would deal with them as needed.

As they moved deeper into the hall, a familiar voice called out, waving enthusiastically at them.

"Evan! Over here!"

It was Claire and Roy. Claire's radiant smile lit up her face, while Roy, ever composed, stood beside her. Evan's usual cool demeanor faltered as he quickened his pace toward them, not being able to keep it before his parents.

"Mom, Dad! When did you get here?"

"Just a little while ago," Claire replied, her gaze gleaming with pride as she looked at her son. She then clasped her hands together in delight. "Oh, my! My son looks so handsome like an angel descended from heaven!"

After saying that, Claire turned to Suri and took her hand warmly. "And you, Suri, you look like a fairy goddess. I have to say, my son is very lucky to have found you."

Evan's lips twitched slightly. 'An angel? Really? Why do I only get to be an angel while she becomes the goddess?'

He grumbled inwardly and muttered to himself. 'System, come on, I'm obviously the most handsome man alive. Confirm it.'

[… ]

The system ignored him entirely.

'Sigh…'

'Even the system's jealous of me,' he thought smugly.

While Claire and Suri continued their pleasant conversation, Roy pulled Evan aside, his expression serious.

"Evan, listen carefully. Tonight's event is more significant than it looks. For all intents and purposes, you're the head here tonight."

Evan blinked in surprise. "What? How did I suddenly become the head of this event?"

Roy exhaled. "The Rajputs used to take the lead in welcoming the Federation agents. With their fall, it's up to us to ensure this event runs smoothly. An agent will be arriving soon. He may be harsh but just keep your temper in check."

Evan frowned, his mind racing with questions about what this Federation agent wanted. But before he could respond, a deep voice interrupted.

"Is this him? Your real son?"

Turning around, Roy and Evan saw Gukesh Amdani, Prakash Bhosale, and Kabul Uday approaching them. These three men, along with Roy, controlled much of Indra's wealth and power, their influence stretched far beyond the country's borders.