CHAPTER 1: THE MAN IN THE WHITE SHIRT
The Royal Crown Hotel glittered beneath enormous crystal chandeliers.
It was the most extravagant wedding the city had seen in years. Politicians, celebrities, business tycoons, and socialites filled the grand ballroom, dressed in designer gowns and custom-tailored suits.
Among them stood a young man wearing nothing more than a simple white shirt, dark trousers, and worn brown shoes.
He wasn't speaking to anyone.
He simply stood quietly near the back of the room, observing.
His appearance quickly caught the attention of Miranda Collins, a blonde socialite famous for her wealth and arrogance. Diamonds sparkled around her neck, wrists, and fingers.
She looked the young man up and down before letting out a mocking laugh.
"Excuse me," she said loudly. "Are you sure you're in the right place?"
Several nearby guests turned to look.
The man smiled politely.
"I believe I am."
Miranda crossed her arms.
"This wedding is for the city's elite. The invitation list is more exclusive than most country clubs."
Laughter spread through the crowd.
Beside her stood her husband, Richard Collins—the richest real-estate developer in the city.
He smirked.
"Don't be too hard on him, Miranda. Maybe he's one of the catering staff who forgot to change clothes."
More laughter erupted.
The young man remained calm.
Not a trace of anger crossed his face.
His composure only irritated Miranda further.
She stepped closer.
"So tell us. What do you do for a living?"
"I manage a few companies."
"A few companies?" she scoffed. "Delivery companies?"
The crowd burst into laughter once again.
But then Richard finally looked carefully at the man's face.
His smile vanished.
The color drained from his skin.
His hand began to tremble.
The champagne glass nearly slipped from his fingers.
"No..."
he whispered.
"That can't be possible."
The young man simply met his gaze.
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And in that instant, Richard Collins realized exactly who was standing before him.
What happened next would shock every person in the ballroom.
