Chapter 9
Chapter 9:
Following Rosalie’s directions, Ryder Campbell, manager of Sunglow Hotel, made his entrance into the banquet hall, a delicate gift box in hand.
His presence instantly captured the attention of everyone present. The members of the James family, along with other guests, quickly converged on him, offering warm greetings to the distinguished visitor. Ryder soon found himself engulfed by the crowd, making it challenging to locate the individual he sought.
“Ladies and gentlemen, may I ask…” Ryder attempted to inquire about Dr. Baldwin’s presence, but the crowd swiftly cut him off.
Miriam and Tristan led the James family members as they eagerly crowded around Ryder, each trying to leave a lasting impression.
Despite feeling a bit overwhelmed by the fervent welcomes, Ryder kept his poise, courteously responding to each greeting. After all, he wasn’t sure of Dr. Baldwin’s connection to these individuals.
Watching from a distance, Ashton shook his head in amusement. After two years with the James family, their facade of warmth no longer fooled him, leaving him thoroughly disillusioned by their lack of genuineness.
Having fulfilled his intention of wishing Bobby a happy birthday, Ashton felt no reason to linger. He approached Bobby quietly, gave a respectful bow, and signaled his departure.
“I came here solely to wish you well on your birthday. Now that I have done that, it is time for me to leave. Take care, and may you enjoy good health and a long life,” Ashton stated, and then discreetly exited the hall.
Bobby felt compelled to urge him to stay, but seeing Ashton’s resolve to leave, he chose to remain silent.
As Ashton walked away, Bobby expressed his regret with a sigh. “What a shame to lose such an outstanding young man p>
Someone from the crowd spotted Ashton’s departing figure and shouted, “Hey, where’s Ashton heading p>
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“Let him leave. He’s nothing but a freeloader. It makes no difference whether he stays or goes,” Miriam said with disdain.
“Right, he probably realized he couldn’t compete with Ryder and left in shame!” another voice added, sparking a wave of laughter among the group.
Ryder, bewildered by these remarks, took a moment to understand that the event was in honor of Bobby’s birthday, and his unexpected arrival with a gift had caused some confusion.
To maintain the decorum expected of the Campbell family, Ryder navigated through the crowd and approached Bobby with due respect.
“Sir, I apologize for the sudden intrusion and any disruption caused. On behalf of the Campbell family, I wish you immeasurable happiness and a long life on this special day,” Ryder expressed sincerely.
Bobby’s initial annoyance softened with Ryder’s words. He chuckled warmly and responded, “Thank you, Mr. Campbell. Your thoughtfulness is much appreciated. We were just enjoying a casual celebration with close family and friends, and we didn’t anticipate hosting such a distinguished guest. Please excuse any lack of formality p>
Ryder acknowledged him with a nod and resumed scanning the room for Dr. Baldwin.
But before he could proceed, the crowd converged around him once more.
“Mr. Campbell, do you remember me? I’m the deputy general manager of Star Trade. We met during a business banquet hosted by your family two years ago p>
“Mr. Campbell, I handle the finances at the James Group. I was instrumental in signing our cooperative agreement with your family p>
“Mr. Campbell, I’m Tristan James, Bobby’s grandson. We’re truly honored by your presence at my grandfather’s birthday. You didn’t even need to bring a gift p>
Amid the incessant chatter that disrupted his focus, Ryder finally lost his patience.
He straightened up and firmly stated, “I appreciate the warm welcome, but I’m here for a specific reason. Mr. Bobby James, I’ve been informed that Dr. Baldwin is in attendance tonight. It’s urgent that I speak with him about a matter that requires his immediate attention. Could you assist me in locating him p>
The James family members exchanged puzzled glances.
“Dr. Baldwin? Was he even invited?” one asked.
“No, I don’t recall a Baldwin on our guest list p>
“If there’s anyone with the surname Baldwin, it was Ashton, and he’s just left,” another corrected.
Ryder felt a surge of urgency upon hearing that the only person with the surname Baldwin had already departed.
“Does anyone know where he went?” he asked hastily.
He had specific instructions from Rosalie to ensure Dr. Baldwin did not leave. Ryder needed to confirm whether Ashton was indeed the doctor Rosalie referred to, given the critical nature of his mission.
If he failed, Ryder knew Rosalie would blame him, and the repercussions would be severe.
“Mr. Campbell, there’s no need to chase after that worthless man. Come, join the celebration,” Miriam said, offering a reassuring smile as she reached for his arm.
Ryder, however, was not swayed. With Ashton gone, how could he just sit and celebrate?
“Let go, please.” He shook off Miriam’s hand, causing her to stagger backward. Then, he said to Bobby, “Mr. James, I have urgent matters to attend to and must depart immediately p>
With that, he hastened out of the banquet hall, leaving the crowd behind in silent astonishment.
Could it be that Ryder was here not for the birthday but to find Ashton?