Chapter 115
The Goodwin family’s banquet was the talk of the town, drawing an exclusive crowd thanks to their elder daughter, Tracey’s engagement to a member of the prestigious Hilton family. It was a strategic move designed to cement the Goodwin family’s rising status in high society. It didn’t surprise me that Richard got an invite. Had it not been for Claude’s schemes that landed him in prison for two years, his startup would likely have gone public. After all, his backing came from the Hilton family themselves.
Richard said, “It’s a toss-up. Alan arranged the engagement himself, and his trust fund backed Ms. Tracey up. The current head of the Hilton family isn’t too involved. Rumor has it he’s not keen on the match, which is why he’s still single at thirty, possibly looking for a way out p>
“Do you think the Hilton guy will show?” I asked, seeking a glimpse into the truth.
As Richard explained, I nodded, half-understanding. “Why doesn’t he just call off the engagement then p>
“That’s beyond me. Few have seen the head of the Hilton family in person. He maintains a low profile but makes bold business moves, establishing himself as a force to be reckoned with in Crestview Metropolis. Despite his substantial investment in my venture, I’ve never met the man, though I’ve sent him his share of the profits,” Richard spoke with an almost reverential tone.
Leaning back, I pondered, “When did he take over p>
Richard answered, “About three years after your parents passed away. When Alan died, he stepped up, and the Hilton Group’s already formidable wealth doubled, leaving their nearest competitors far behind p>
I hummed in response, wondering if the current head of the Hilton family would be more amenable than Alan had been in returning my parents’ ashes.
“Lost in thought? I’m heading to the
Hilton Group for an investment meeting soon. I could try talking tox Mr. Hilton’s assistant about your parents ashes if you want.” Richard knew my true feelings well. On the but
surface, I seemed indifferen
deep down, I longed to lay my parents to rest.
Richard chose a simple yet elegant blue gown for me and a casual updo for the Goodwin family’s banquet. We weren’t there to dazzle. My only wish was to see the elusive Mr. Hilton.
.n
When Richard and I entered, Richard was recognized immediately despite his time away and bombarded with handshakes and talks of future ventures. It seemed his stint in prison hadn’t dented his reputation.
QUMS
“Richard, I’m going to grab something to eat,” I said, feeling too conspicuous by his side.
He quickly arranged for an assistant to keep me safe, always protective.
Sipping on a drink, I watched Claude and Kate descend the staircase, arm in arm, greeted by warm smiles that quickly turned to hidden smirks once they passed. “That’s Mr. Hart, right? I heard he ditched his fiancée, a girl who saved his life, for a shot with the Goodwin family. Now he’s with Ms. Kate p>
“Shameless p>
“Indeed. Even though Claude’s mother is from the Hilton family, I heard she had cut ties with them years ago after a nasty fallout with Alan, even leading to people’s deaths p>