Magdalen Sampson had plans to go out that evening, but one of her friends called unexpectedly. “Magdalen, I just remembered—the Winters family is having their fiftieth anniversary celebration tonight. They sent me an invitation and it totally slipped my mind. I’ll swing by to make an appearance, so I’ll be a bit late.”
Magdalen assured her it was fine, but after the call, her thoughts lingered on the Winters family’s milestone event.
The Winters family collaborated with Sylvia’s company, so Sylvia was sure to attend the celebration. And those people from the Winters family…
An idea struck Magdalen. She called Gabriel. “Gabriel, are you still in J City?”
Gabriel was driving. He replied calmly, “Yes, I am. What’s up?”
Magdalen’s tone was warm and pleasant. “Gabriel, the Winters family is celebrating their fiftieth anniversary tonight. I was supposed to go with Sylvia, but I’m completely swamped today. Can you go and accompany her for me?”
Gabriel’s gaze darkened slightly, but his voice remained cool. “I understand. Where is it?”
Magdalen quickly scrolled through Facebook. Sure enough, people in their J City social circle were already posting photos.
She instantly recognized the hotel from the banquet hall décor. “I’ll send you the address. Thanks, Gabriel!”
“No problem.”
Gabriel hung up, checked the time, and turned his car at the next intersection, heading toward the hotel.
*
At the Celebration Banquet
Faust stood firm, his manner unwavering. “Ever since you took over the company, Dad was forced into retirement, and my people were steadily demoted. Now you won’t even tolerate those from other branches. Eugene, the Winters family’s success is the result of three generations of effort. By excluding those who differ from you and turning your back on your own relatives, you’re leading this whole family down the road to ruin!”
Faust’s words left many around the room visibly stunned. Some who weren’t aware of the backstory began muttering criticisms against Eugene.
“Who’d have thought Mr. Winters could be so ruthless at his age—turning on his own family!”
“All the Winters care about is their own interests. Blood ties mean nothing compared to personal gain.”
“This celebration has turned into an inquisition! Now that’s drama!”
…

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