Chapter 11

Chapter 11: Forging of two souls.

As Lucas finished embracing his mother, Emilia noticed Marcus standing beside them, his arrival having gone unnoticed in her distraction. Marcus beamed with pride as he embraced Lucas, a touching moment that moved the onlookers. For a brief instant, it seemed the rumors of Marcus's cold demeanor didn't apply to family matters.

But as Marcus whispered in Lucas's ear, the atmosphere shifted. "Behave and continue the act," he warned, reminding Lucas to maintain the facade amidst the crowd. Lucas's eyes, once hopeful, turned cold as he realized his father still prioritized business over family.

Lucas played along, embracing Marcus back. As they broke apart, Marcus retained Lucas's hand, and a microphone was handed to him.

"Ladies and gentlemen," Marcus began, his voice booming through the room. "I apologize for the delay and thank you for joining us on this special occasion. Today, we celebrate the return of my son, Lucas, the future heir to the Bl