Chapter 11
887 Words
The morning of the executive summit arrived faster than Asia expected.
By eight o'clock, the entire city seemed to be moving toward the Grand Meridian Convention Center, one of the most prestigious venues in Flinton City. Luxury vehicles lined the entrance while reporters stood behind barricades, cameras flashing whenever another influential business figure stepped out.
Inside, the atmosphere was even more impressive.
Executives, investors, board members, and industry leaders filled the massive ballroom. Conversations overlapped from every direction as people exchanged handshakes, discussed partnerships, and speculated about the future of the city's business landscape.
Asia paused briefly after entering because she was still taking it all in.
The realization settled quietly inside her then she straightened her shoulders and walked forward.
The fitted cream-colored pantsuit she wore was elegant without being flashy. Her dark hair fell neatly over her shoulders, and the simple pearl earrings she had chosen completed the look perfectly.
"Well, look at you."
Asia turned as Rachel approached with a grin.
"You clean up nicely."
Asia laughed.
"You say that like I usually don't."
"You usually look like someone who hasn't slept."
"Fair."
Rachel linked her arm through Asia's.
"Relax. You're going to do great today."
Asia smiled and For some reason, hearing it from Rachel made her believe it.
Across the ballroom, another pair had just arrived.
Jane stepped through the entrance beside Kelvin, immediately drawing herself up with confidence.
This was exactly the type of event she enjoyed with Important people and attention.
Now that she was serving as Executive Manager of Fletcher Group, she expected plenty of both.
Several people greeted Kelvin almost immediately.
Handshakes were exchanged.
Business cards changed hands.
Everything seemed normal.
Until something unexpected happened.
A senior executive passed directly by Jane,He barely acknowledged her existence.
Instead, he walked straight toward Asia.
"Miss Richmore."
Asia turned politely.
The older man smiled warmly.
"It's been years since I last saw you. Your father used to speak about you all the time."
Something softened in Asia's expression.
"Thank you, Mr. Benson."
"I watched your interview yesterday,Very impressive."
Jane's smile faltered as another executive approached.
Then another as they went in their number towards Asia took asks questions and introduce themselves.
Within minutes, Asia found herself engaged in several conversations.
People weren't greeting her because she was Kelvin Fletcher's wife.Most of them didn't mention Kelvin at all.
They greeted her because she was Asia Richmore,the daughter of one of Flinton City's most respected businessmen.
Jane watched the interactions from across the room.The uncomfortable feeling from yesterday returned immediately.
She didn't like it,Not even one bit.
Beside her, Kelvin observed the same thing.His expression remained calm, but a faint crease appeared between his brows.
He was really surprised to see Asia there as he was unaware of her new position or the resignation letter she had submitted to his company earlier.
A few moments later, Rachel's father approached.
Mr. Glanton looked every bit the powerful businessman he was known to be.
"Asia."
She turned immediately.
"Mr. Glanton."
"I'd like you to meet a few people." As he pointed into the direction of some top executives in the city.
The next thirty minutes passed in a blur of investment discussions and business meetings.
One by one, Asia greeted them professionally.
Several had already reviewed the reports she had prepared since joining Glanton Industries.
The more conversations she had, the more relaxed she became.
Meanwhile, Jane's mood continued deteriorating as the attention she had expected to receive never arrived.
Whenever someone mentioned Fletcher Group, their questions were directed at Kelvin and never her.
The realization irritated her far more than she cared to admit.
"Are you alright?"
Kelvin's voice pulled her from her thoughts.
Jane forced a smile.
"Of course."
He studied her briefly before looking away.
Across the ballroom, Asia was speaking with another executive.
Just as kelvin turned around to steal a glance at her and how impressed these executives were speaking to her but he quickly looked away.
A few minutes later, the summit organizer stepped onto the stage.
The microphone crackled softly.
Gradually, conversations throughout the ballroom began to quiet down.
"Ladies and gentlemen.”The organizer smiled.
"Thank you all for attending this year's Executive Leadership Summit."
Polite applause followed.
"We are honored to welcome representatives from the city's leading corporations and investment groups."
More applause followed.
Asia listened attentively.
Beside her, Rachel leaned closer.
"It’s Almost time."
Asia frowned.
"For what?"
Rachel simply smiled.
"You'll see."
The organizer continued speaking.
"As many of you already know, we are also welcoming representatives from one of the most influential corporations in the country."
A ripple moved through the room.
Immediately, people began exchanging curious looks.Even several board members straightened up in their seats.
The organizer's smile widened.
"Representing Carter Corporation."
The reaction was instant as Whispers erupted throughout the ballroom.
Jane's eyes widened.
Kelvin looked toward the entrance,Even Mr. Glanton appeared surprised.
Everyone knew Carter Corporation.
Everyone knew its influence and everyone had arrived expecting the same thing.
Mr. Carter himself.
The legendary businessman rarely attended public events anymore Which meant his appearance today would be significant.
The ballroom doors suddenly began to open.
One by one, conversations died away and Silence settled across the room.
Every pair of eyes turned toward the entrance.
And then the doors opened completely.
- Writer
