Chapter 372 A Blackout
At the same time, in one of Endralsia’s most luxurious hotels, a dazzling crystal chandelier hung over the center of the ballroom. Below, men in tuxedos and women in elegant gowns swayed gracefully to the sound of a cello. Dominic held a glass of red wine and found himself a quiet corner by the window, staring at the moon shining over the world.
“Dominic, why are you standing here all by yourself?”
Blair arrived in a stunning custom white gown sprinkled with crystals, holding a glass of champagne as she joined her eldest son. “Are you feeling homesick?”
“Yeah… a little. After all, it’s New Year’s.” As he spoke, Dominic shot a loaded glance at Tobias, who was chatting up the chairman of a local business group. Tobias spoke Motrarian as smoothly as a native. If not for his distinctly Cetherlander features, anyone would have thought he was a native Motrarian.
He had striking good looks: sharp features, expressive brows with slightly upturned ends, complemented by thin lips and a high-bridged nose. A small mole sat between his brows – it was easy to miss but noticeable up close. Standing at six-foot-two, he wore a deep blue tailored suit that accentuated his build. With one hand in his pocket and a glass of champagne in the other, he chatted effortlessly, charming the chairman with his words and drawing rounds of laughter. His people skills were natural – perfect for conquering the business world. He was the kind of man who became the center of attention just by standing in the middle of a ballroom. It helped that his face was almost unfairly handsome, with a kind of delicate charm that drew everyone in. And when he spoke, he always seemed to know exactly what to say. It was no wonder Dominic took notice of someone like him.
“Are you feeling wary of him?” Blair asked softly. As the one who used to oversee Jenson Group’s external affairs, Blair saw right through Tobias at a glance – he was no ordinary man.
“It’s more than that. I actually saw him once at a bidding event. He won the land we were after.” Dominic pressed his lips together. He couldn’t shake the feeling that Jenson Group’s business had taken a strange turn recently… Could it be connected to him? Dominic had only crossed paths with Tobias twice. There was nothing concrete to go on – just his own gut feeling. Maybe I’m just overthinking. Still, his instincts told him this man was dangerous.
Meanwhile, Tobias seemed to notice Dominic watching him. He said a polite goodbye to the couple he’d been talking to. Then, he picked up another glass of champagne and strolled over to Dominic and Blair.
“Mrs. Jenson, Mr. Dominic, I’ve heard so much about you. It’s an honor to finally meet you.”
Blair smiled. “I don’t believe we’ve met before. Are you from Endralsia?”
“No, Mrs. Jenson, I’m from Cetherland. I completed my master’s here in Endralsia. I’m currently starting my own business. Here’s my card.” Tobias handed over two business cards with both hands, perfectly courteous. His voice was warm and pleasant, putting people at ease.
Dominic glanced at the card. Tobias Lowell. Sole owner of ME Group. The company’s reach was surprisingly broad.
His last name is Lowell… “You must have some serious connections to be at an event like this. Are you related to Malcom Lowell from Crown Group?”
Tobias smiled wryly. “A big shot like him has nothing to do with someone like me. If I did, I wouldn’t be starting my own business from scratch.” Dominic had nothing to say to that. Malcom was known to have two women in his life. That was an open secret. His mistress’s daughter, Amanda, had a decent relationship with Dominic’s brother, Santiago. Jenson Group’s background checks on the Lowells hadn’t turned up any son named Tobias. But that was just the public record. Malcom had his share of secrets, thanks to all his affairs outside his official marriage. But with Beatrice’s powerful presence as his wife, none of his illegitimate children were ever going to be openly acknowledged. Having Lisa around was probably already as much as Beatrice could tolerate.
Suddenly, the lights went out. The ballroom was soon plunged into darkness.
“What happened? Is it a blackout?”
“What’s going on? Where’s the backup power?”
“This can’t be happening…”
Panic soon spread through the crowd. Just then –
Bang! Bang!
Gunshots rang out, cutting through the crowd’s restless murmurs.
“Ahh!”
People panicked when they heard the gunshots. Screams erupted as people rushed for the exits.
“Mom!”
Dominic’s face turned grim as he quickly pulled Blair into his arms, guiding her to a corner. With the lights out and the crowd panicking, tables and chairs were scattered everywhere, blocking people’s way. It was definitely not the time to try escaping.
“Mom, get under the table!” Dominic acted fast, deciding to wait and see what happened before making a move. He lifted the tablecloth and pulled Blair under with him. Coincidentally, Tobias made the same move.