Chapter 50
Axion Enterprises’ club, nestled in the stunning mountain and lakeside scenery on Larrowfell’s southern outskirts, was a sprawling complex. It boasted equestrian facilities, luxury accommodations, a vibrant nightclub, and everything else the elite of Harrowfell and neighboring cities desired. Membership was exclusive, even the lowest tier comprised of no ordinary people. The club’s owner, Nathaniel Beaumont, was Dominick Vanderbilt’s old classmate—as were Marissa and Julian. Marissa's connection was the Vanderbilt family; Julian earned his place through academic merit.
Nathaniel had invited Dominick, former teachers, and classmates to the grand opening gala. Marissa, beaming, pointed out the impressive venue. “Dom, look! Nathaniel, that troublemaker, finally got serious.” Unlike Dominick, groomed for business leadership, Nathaniel, the youngest Beaumont heir, enjoyed a life of reckless indulgence until his family shipped him abroad for poor grades. His return and this extravagant club surprised everyone.
Julian chuckled from the front seat. “If Nathaniel hadn’t started proving himself, the Beaumonts would have exiled him.” Dominick remained silent, his gaze fixed outside. The Beaumonts’ internal affairs were complex; ‘exile’ was a gilded cage, a form of protective isolation for their heir. Nathaniel’s return, especially with the impending Vanderbilt Group/Axion Enterprises collaboration, held strategic significance for Dominick. This wasn't a reunion; it was reconnaissance.
Meanwhile, Grayson, lost in thought, pictured Paisley amongst the club’s lush greenery. Their car pulled up, greeted by a welcoming committee. The sight of Dominick’s car prompted a flurry of activity; classmates lined up, bowing before him as if he were royalty. David Wilson, the club manager, opened the car door with a flourish. “Welcome, Mr. Vanderbilt!”
Marissa, holding Grayson's hand, stood beside Dominick, presenting the picture of a perfect family. Former classmates greeted Dominick, met with his characteristic coolness. Alexis Foster remarked, “Marissa, you and Dominick look like a family!”
Marissa smiled serenely. “Dom and I are family,” she replied, watching Dominick’s expression. His faint smile confirmed her strategy. The shift in the crowd's demeanor—the newfound respect, the whispers of "Mrs. Vanderbilt"—was exactly what she intended.
David announced, “Mr. Beaumont sends his apologies; he’s asked me to welcome you. Your rooms are ready.” Dominick nodded, and they followed David.
An MPV pulled up. Paisley, noticing the crowd, frowned. “Lucy, why are so many people here? Are they for us?”
Lucy looked confused. “I don't think so. Ms. Lewis said she was delayed and asked us to wait in the lobby.”
As they stopped, Lucy helped Paisley out, followed by Maria with Serena, bubbling with excitement. Paisley spotted Dominick, Marissa, and Grayson, surrounded by admirers. “No wonder there’s a crowd – the big shot’s here!”
Dominick, in a casual yet impeccably tailored outfit, stood beside Marissa, her luxury casual wear complementing his. Grayson, his hair perfectly styled, was his miniature double. They were the picture of a family. Paisley chuckled softly.
Lucy, puzzled, asked, “What’s so funny, Ms. Sutton?” Recognizing them from a previous encounter, she gasped.
Paisley shook her head, muttering, “Talk about bad luck.”