Chapter 13

After Lillian was dragged out, the lobby finally quieted.

Bobby turned to Emory, then, without a word, slapped himself hard across the face—twice. He forced a smile. "Sir, I'm truly sorry. This was my mistake. I trusted the wrong person and caused you unnecessary trouble."

Emory shook his head. "Let it go. It's not your fault."

He turned, about to leave Lunar Ventures, when a white-haired man in a brown suit hurried in from outside. As soon as he caught sight of Bobby, his expression shifted into one of desperation.

"Bobby, I need your help," he said, practically pleading. "Halstone Grand Hotel is having a little cash flow issue. Could you loan me 30 million? I promise I'll pay it back—soon. I just need a little time—"

"Ahem." Bobby cut him off, his tone cool. "Robin, I'm not in charge of things at Lunar Ventures anymore. If you're looking for a loan, you'll have to speak with our new chairman."

"Chairman Emory?" Robin Vito blinked, glancing at Emory.

"That's right," Bobby confirmed. "This is Mr. Emory Belen, our new chairman. He was personally appointed by Master Robert."

The moment he heard Robert's name, Robin visibly stiffened, a chill running down his spine. That name carried weight—Robert was a legend in Sacholles, known even to those who tried to avoid politics or power. Even Bobby himself paled in comparison.

"I see, Mr. Emory," Robin said quickly, adjusting his tone with respectful admiration. "At such a young age, to become chairman of Lunar Ventures—it's remarkable. Truly, you are one in a gazillion."

He chuckled nervously, then shifted into full-on flattery. "Mr. Emory, if I may… would it be possible to borrow 30 million in cash from Lunar? Just temporarily. I'll repay the full amount within no more than half a month, I swear. And whatever interest you ask, I'll pay without hesitation."

He waited anxiously, casting a cautious glance at Emory.

Bobby leaned over and whispered, "Mr. Emory, Robin's worked with us for years. He's always been trustworthy. Oh, and his Halstone Grand Hotel? It's the most luxurious wedding venue in all of Vermillion Delta. A lot of celebrities and even royalty have held weddings there. If you or your friends ever need a venue, he'll take care of it personally. No reservations necessary."

Emory considered this for a moment. "If he's trustworthy, give him the 30 million."

"Thank you, Mr. Emory! Thank you!" Robin bowed deeply, his voice almost trembling with relief.

Just then, Emory's phone rang. It was Cora.

"Emory, where are you? My cousin's engagement party is at the Madison family villa in a bit. When you finish up, come over, okay? Don't be late."

"I'm on my way," he said and hung up.

When he arrived at the Madison family villa, the entire courtyard was already decorated beautifully.

"You're here," Cora greeted him with a gentle smile. She wore light makeup and looked elegant as she slipped her arm into his.

"Which cousin of yours is getting engaged today?" Emory asked casually. "Do we need to bring a gift?"

"No need." Cora shook her head, then pointed toward a woman surrounded by a cheerful crowd. "That's her—my cousin, Alice."

Emory recognized her instantly. Alice Rodney, Hilda's daughter, a high-achieving student who studied abroad.

"She wasn't planning on getting engaged this soon," Cora explained quietly, "but ever since Aunt Hilda's accident, she decided to move the wedding up. Figured it'd bring some luck and help Auntie rest easy."

As the two continued their conversation, Scarlet and several others arrived one after another.

Before long, the engagement banquet officially began.

"Today's Alice's engagement," Hilda said with a rare smile, seated in her wheelchair. "Let's raise a glass, everyone!"

"You're so blessed, Hilda," one of the Madison family members gushed beside her. "Your daughter's marrying such a catch—handsome, rich, and I hear Tyler even started his own company? That's impressive!"

"It's just a small company," Tyler Ferris replied modestly. "Nothing compared to Scarlet Media."

But Hilda wasn't having it. "A small company? I heard your company is working with Lunar Ventures. Given their status in Vermillion Delta, they wouldn't partner with just anyone."

The words sent a ripple through the crowd.

Several of the Madison family's women looked at Hilda with even more admiration. Some of the unmarried girls cast jealous glances at Alice. Partnering with Lunar Ventures said a lot—it meant Tyler's business was no small operation.

Noticing the envious stares from women her age, Alice lifted her chin like a proud bird.

That's when Madeline chimed in. "Tyler, now that you're marrying Alice, we're family. If the chance comes up, could you introduce a few of Lunar Venture's key people to your grandma? Our family has been hoping to pitch a few projects their way."

"No problem, Grandma. If I get the chance, I'll make the introductions," Tyler promised sincerely.

His quick agreement sparked more praise from the Madison elders.

"Such a well-mannered young man."

"Right? Young, accomplished, and respectful. Alice really lucked out."

"If only my daughter hadn't married so early… I'd want a son-in-law like Tyler."

"In your dreams…"

Listening to the elders talk, Cora quietly let out a breath of relief. She was just grateful her mother wasn't here today. If Helen had come, she would've definitely used the opportunity to compare Emory to Tyler—again. Her mother loved comparing everything.

But just as Cora was starting to feel lucky, Hilda's voice cut through with that familiar, biting tone. "My daughter's marrying well—that's fate. Unlike some of the women in this family… What a pity."

"Aunt Hilda, I don't think marrying Emory was a pity at all."

Cora suddenly stood and looked squarely at Hilda. "After marrying Emory, my disability was cured. I don't have to smell bitter herbs at the hospital anymore. I'm happy now—happier than I've ever been. And all of it is because of Emory."

"Cora! Shut your mouth. Did I name you? Why are you acting like the world revolves around you?"

Hilda's face twisted the moment she heard "disability cured," as if someone had jabbed her in a raw nerve. She snapped, voice harsh and shaking. "And what, your legs got better because of him? Don't give him credit he doesn't deserve!"

"Cora. Sit down." Madeline shot her a glare, annoyed.

Cora said nothing more. She sat quietly beside Emory.

Then, out of nowhere, Scarlet asked, "Alice, where are you and Tyler planning to hold the wedding?"

"I was thinking we could just book a regular hotel," Alice said with an exaggerated sigh. "But Tyler insisted on doing it at Halstone Grand Hotel. I couldn't stop him."

Despite the complaint, her face radiated smug satisfaction.

"What? Halstone? The hotel where celebrities and royalty get married?" A few of the younger Madison family members looked shocked.

Everyone knew Halstone was the most luxurious wedding venue in Vermillion Delta. The Madison family didn't even qualify to attend a wedding there, let alone host one.

"Don't get the wrong idea," Tyler said quickly. "I can't book the rooftop garden at Halstone like some people can. But I know Lance Wood, a manager working at the hotel—he agreed to let us use the basement level for the wedding."

Even as he mentioned the basement, Alice didn't flinch. She still looked proud.

Because to host a wedding at Halstone—no matter the floor—was already more than most women could dream of.