After I left Alpha father and son went crazy with regret

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And for the first time that night, Nora felt a real smile tug at her lips.

Despite the fact that many guests had left early to attend Linda's reception, the old lady remained composed.

She stood at the center of the banquet hall, her calm presence commanding respect.

With a gentle smile, she finished her speech, expressing her gratitude to those who stayed.

Instead of showing disappointment, she chose to act with grace and dignity.

"I understand that people have obligations, and sometimes, plans overlap," she said in a warm, reassuring voice. "But for those of you who stayed, I truly appreciate your presence. Family and true friends are the ones who remain, and that is what matters the most."

Her words, though spoken kindly, carried an undeniable weight. There was wisdom in her tone, a quiet. strength that made those around her reflect.

Some guests lowered their heads in embarrassment, while others nodded in admiration.

Even Nora, who had been feeling disheartened, found comfort in her grandmother's resilience.

Meanwhile, Leo leaned over to Alexander and spoke in a low voice, "We'll wait a little while before we officially start the banquet. There's another important guest coming."

Alexander raised an eyebrow, immediately sensing that Leo knew something he didn't. But he trusted Leo's instincts and simply nodded. "Alright. We'll wait a little longer."

A few moments later, the grand doors of the banquet hall swung open, and the air shifted. Colton had arrived.

His presence immediately drew attention.

Guests who had been murmuring amongst themselves fell silent.

Even those who had been indifferent to the evening now straightened in their seats.

Colton was not any guest-his name carried weight, and his reputation as a sharp businessman and an influential figure preceded him.

Nora's eyes widened slightly in surprise. She had not expected him to show up. Leo, however, simply smirked, as if he had anticipated this moment all along.

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Chapter 82

Colton, with his usual composed demeanor, approached the old lady and bowed his head slightly in respect.

"Happy birthday," he said In a voice that, though deep and steady, carried a note of sincerity. "I hope this evening brings you joy."

He handed her an elegantly wrapped box.

Inside was a set of rare jade hairpins, crafted with the finest stones from the Silvermoon Pack's mines. The old lady's eyes softened as she examined them, her fingers running over the smooth surface. "These are exquisite," she said, her voice touched with appreciation. "You have good taste, Colton." "I only chose something that would match your elegance," he replied.

Although Colton was known for being cold and distant, his treatment of his elders was always respectful. The old lady seemed pleased with his gesture, nodding approvingly before setting the gift aside. Meanwhile, Nora and Leo took the opportunity to interact with Colton.

Leo, as usual, carried himself with ease, but Nora, though polite, couldn't shake her curiosity.

"I didn't expect you to come," she admitted.

Colton glanced at her, his expression unreadable. "Leo has been very persuasive," he said simply. "Besides, it seemed like the right thing to do."

Leo chuckled. "I knew you wouldn't refuse an invitation from someone as important as the old lady." During the conversation, Colton turned his attention to Nora's work. "Nora is my student, and I'm happy to attend parties held by her loved ones," he said. "As long as her talent isn't buried, I'll find a way to help. her go far."

Nora was momentarily taken aback by his compliment.

Colton was not the type to give praise easily, and she could sense that his words were genuine.

The old lady, upon hearing this, looked at Nora with newfound relief.

"I always knew my granddaughter had potential," she said. "I'm glad to hear she's making use of it."

As Colton continued to converse with the guests, whispers began to spread throughout the banquet hall. Many of the guests who had initially left for Linda's event began to regret their decision.

After Deft. Alnks father abul son went eral

Chapter 82

The news of Colton's presence spread like wildfire, and soon, those who had gone to Linda's banquet were receiving messages.

**Meanwhile, at Linda's banquet..."

The room was filled with people, laughter, and the clinking of glasses.

Linda, dressed in an elegant gown, had ensured that every detail of the event was perfect. But no matter how many people were there, she was waiting for just one.

Arnold.

She had expected him to arrive by now. She had even saved a seat for him next to her, imagining how the evening would unfold.

Yet, as time passed, her expression grew tighter.

Then, one of her guests leaned in and whispered something in her ear.

Linda's grip on her glass tightened slightly. "What did you say?"

"Colton went to Nora's banquet."