The Wilson mansion gleamed brighter than ever that evening. The long dining table had been set with crystal glasses, fine china, and candles that flickered against the golden walls. Every servant moved with precision, not daring to make a mistake, for tonight was no ordinary gathering, it was a night that could secure the Wilson family's place among the elite.
The sound of the heavy front doors opening echoed through the hall. Mr. Wilson entered, tall and proud, his face alive with satisfaction. Beside him walked a man whose presence carried both age and power Mr. Carter Walmart, owner of the global retail empire. Though his hair had silvered, his stride was firm, his shoulders unbent, and his piercing eyes still commanded fear and respect.
"Darling!" Mrs. Wilson rose immediately, her smile radiant but carefully rehearsed. "Welcome home. And welcome, Mr. Carter. It is such an honor to host you in our home."
"The honor is mine," Carter replied, his voice deep and steady, carrying the weight of a man who had shaped an empire. His eyes swept the room like a king surveying his court.
Ann, seated gracefully near the head of the table, stood and curtsied lightly. "Good evening, Mr. Carter. I'm so pleased to finally meet you."
Carter gave a slow nod, approval flickering briefly in his eyes, before settling into his seat.
---
Dinner was about to be served when the door opened again.
A hush fell over the room as Ethan entered. Tall, broad-shouldered, and striking in a black suit, he carried an aura so commanding that every eye turned toward him. His sharp features, strong jawline, and calm stride made him appear untouchable.
"You're late," Carter's voice cut through the silence.
"Apologies," Ethan said simply, sliding into his chair beside his father. His tone was clipped but respectful, his presence powerful yet reserved.
---
As the first course was served, conversation flowed easily between Mr. Wilson and Carter.
"Your empire has conquered the West and the East alike," Mr. Wilson said, raising his glass. "But Africa..., Africa is the future. With my networks here, and your vision, we could build something unimaginable."
Carter gave a slow, approving nod, his strong hands resting firmly on the table. "Expansion is the lifeblood of legacy. Partnership here is not only wise, it is necessary."
The two men shared a look of mutual ambition.
Meanwhile, Ann's attention was not on them, but on Ethan.
She had expected one of her father's usual dinners boring, predictable, and filled with endless talk about business. But she hadn't expected him. Ethan's silence, his mysterious air, his disinterest in everything around him, yet the strength he exuded without a single wasted word, it pulled her in like a flame.
"So," Ann said with a playful smile, "do you always let your father do all the talking, Ethan?"
Ethan's eyes turned toward her, sharp and unreadable. "I speak when there's something worth saying."
The words were few, but his voice was deep, steady, and left her flustered. She laughed lightly, brushing a lock of hair back. "Strong and silent, then. I like that."
Ethan gave no response, simply lowering his gaze to his glass.
---
Then, the moment of truth came.
Mr. Wilson cleared his throat, smiling toward Carter. "Our families are not only bound by business tonight. We are here to discuss something greater an alliance that will last generations."
Mrs. Wilson leaned forward, her painted lips curving into a smile. "And what better way to seal such an alliance than through marriage? Our daughter, Ann, would be the perfect match for your son."
Ann straightened proudly, tilting her chin toward Ethan. This was her moment.
Carter's gaze hardened slightly, weighing the words. "Marriage builds loyalty. A bond between families is stronger when blood ties it."
Ethan remained silent, his jaw firm, his eyes fixed forward as though the matter didn't concern him. He neither agreed nor protested he simply existed above it, untouchable.
Ann's pulse quickened. She tried to draw his eyes, leaning closer, offering him her brightest smile. He must notice me, she thought. He has to.
---
The dinner stretched on, courses flowing seamlessly. Ann tried again and again light jokes, small compliments, even brushing her fingers along the edge of his sleeve. Ethan remained polite but distant, like a wall she could not break.
Then, Ethan's phone buzzed sharply.
He glanced at it, his expression tightening for the first time. Without hesitation, he stood. "Excuse me."
His chair slid back smoothly as he strode out of the dining hall, phone already at his ear.
Ann's parents exchanged a glance.
"Ann, darling," Mrs. Wilson whispered urgently. "Go to him. Talk to him. Make him see you."
"Yes," Mr. Wilson added firmly. "Show him you're the perfect choice."
Ann's heart raced. She nodded, rising quickly. "Of course."
Her heels clicked against the marble as she followed Ethan out, determination burning in her eyes.
This is it, she told herself. This is how I'll win him.