Regarding Jaden’s use of "older brother and sister-in-law" to refer to Michael’s parents, Collin found it rather strange. Although they were family, there was a large age gap, and considering what these people had done, they could not truly be called elders.
“It’s rare to hear you address Thomas that way.”
Jaden shrugged with his coffee in hand. Denying it would not change the truth–Thomas, Michael’s father, was indeed Jaden’s half-brother.
“We are not the same kind of people. If I had stayed in the Hall family, even if I died, I would never have allowed outsiders to lay a hand on the family’s assets. Even if I lost every single property under my control, I would not let others tell me what to do.”
Moreover, the true intentions of that person remained unknown. He did not believe anyone would simply help others so selflessly. Approaching Thomas, using Michael, and doing so many things–there must have been ambition behind it.
“Forget it, don’t think about it anymore. Tonight’s banquet–if Uncle Mason can stay quiet for a bit, the Lumen Hotel will return to my hands within the next few days.”
Collin was already fastening his tie when Jaden snapped out of his thoughts. He turned, looked at Collin, and only after a long pause did he move closer to help adjust the tie at Collin’s collar. Taking advantage of Collin’s focused gaze, Jaden looked up and smiled faintly. “I wish you what you desire.”
Before they could separate, Collin had already grabbed Jaden’s hand. “Since the day I met you, nothing in this world has been more important than you. My only wish is simply you. I want you to be happy. Whatever you want to do is fine.”
Jaden slowly pushed Collin away. “I am happy. With you by my side, I am happy.”
That evening, at the homecoming banquet for Hurricane Media’s headquarters, Jessica and Chris arrived very early to support the two men. The venue was still almost empty.
“You came so early!” Collin saw them, smiled, walked over, and took Jessica’s hand. He lightly and gently kissed the back of it. “Thank you.”
It was standard Western etiquette. Collin had lived abroad for a long time, so such gestures came naturally–especially since Jessica was his closest friend.
For Jessica, this kind of occasion was also a celebration banquet. Chapter 220
Without Jessica, Collin would not have achieved what he had today.
“Uncle Mason is watching,” Chris leaned toward Jessica and said softly.
That day, after Chris had left the Phillips family, the Lumen Hotel incident occurred. Because Uncle Mason had been unprepared, Collin had directly seized the hotel. Losing such a large piece of property made him grind his teeth in hatred. He must have investigated Jessica’s relationship with Chris. Seeing the couple attend together now, he was not particularly surprised. However, the look he cast their way remained hostile.
“Let him do what he wants.” Jessica flicked her long hair. “I’m beautiful–I meant to attract attention.”
Those who lived constantly in the public eye were used to being observed and watched. They had long since grown accustomed to it.
At an event like this, the Hall family would certainly send someone. Michael had already resumed his identity as the CEO of Aitairy, even changing his name to Elfa. He definitely would not represent the Hall family. They had assumed their only choice would be Luke, but unexpectedly…
“Thomas!”
Jessica and Chris had found a corner to rest in. Their two secretaries were with them. Since guests had not all arrived and the time for socializing had not yet come, they took advantage of the quiet to relax. When they saw Thomas enter with Lynsey, Jessica’s hand paused slightly. She truly had not expected those two to come together, especially at such an event. Almost instinctively, Jessica glanced toward Jaden. Sure enough, Jaden had also noticed the newly arrived couple, and he clenched his hands slightly.