Chapter 5 - The Gala of the Grand Regent
The Grand Ballroom of the Grand Regent was a masterpiece of classic luxury. Crystal chandeliers hung from the twenty-foot-high gilded ceilings, casting a brilliant, diamond-like glow over the hundreds of guests dressed in elegant tuxedos and designer evening gowns.
The annual Vance Holdings Gala was the social event of the season, bringing together the city's elite, major investors, and international partners.
At 8:00 p.m., Ethan Vance entered the ballroom.
He was no longer the tired father in the worn leather jacket. He wore a custom-tailored, dark midnight blue tuxedo that fit his broad shoulders perfectly, his hair styled back, his presence commanding the attention of the room the moment he stepped through the double doors.
Beside him, holding his hand, was Lily. She looked like a little princess in a soft, dusty rose tulle dress with a matching silk bow in her hair. She was still clutching her plush rabbit, Barnaby, who had been clean-washed by the hotel's laundry service and now sported a tiny, matching dark blue bow tie around his neck.
As they walked down the grand staircase, a hush fell over the crowd.
"Is that... Ethan Vance?" a prominent investor whispered to his wife. "I thought he never attended these public events anymore."
"He looks incredible," another woman murmured. "And look at his daughter. She’s beautiful."
Arthur Sterling hurried toward them, his face pale but determined, leading a small entourage of executive board members.
"Mr. Vance," Sterling said, bowing his head. "We are honored by your presence tonight. The board of directors has been eager to speak with you regarding the new hospitality acquisition in New York."
"We will discuss that later, Arthur," Ethan said, his voice carrying that quiet, unshakeable authority. "Tonight is about celebrating our staff and our partners. I want to make sure everyone is enjoying themselves."
"Of course, sir," Sterling said, gesturing toward the VIP lounge area. "I have reserved the primary table for you and Miss Lily. Lupita is currently supervising the service there to ensure everything is perfect."
Ethan looked toward the lounge and saw Lupita. She had traded her housekeeper's uniform for an elegant, professional dark grey pantsuit, her hair styled neatly. She was currently directing a team of servers with a calm, confident grace that looked entirely natural. When she saw Ethan and Lily, her face lit up with a warm, genuine smile.
"Daddy, look!" Lily squealed, pointing toward the table. "It's Lupita! And she has the chocolate strawberries!"
"Go ahead, sweetie," Ethan smiled, releasing her hand. "But make sure you say thank you."
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As Lily ran toward the lounge, her tulle dress fluttering behind her, Ethan stood at the edge of the ballroom, watching his daughter laugh with Lupita. For the first time in three years, the Grand Regent felt like more than just a line item on a financial balance sheet.
It felt like a place where Sarah would have been proud to stand.
