Why did you help the Cullen family?

Amid the bustling crowd, Wilson Yates stood apart, as cold and indifferent as ever. He had a glass of wine in hand, his expression stoic, and his appearance immaculate. Wilson was a tall and striking figure, with dark, well-combed hair and a tailored tuxedo that accentuated his commanding presence. His piercing eyes observed the guests with an aloof detachment as he took a sip of his wine.

Wilson's parents, Richard Yates and Evelyn Yates, were in their element, moving among the guests with grace and charm, welcoming friends, business associates, and other esteemed guests to their home. Mrs. Yates, in her elegant evening gown, exuded warmth and hospitality, while Mr. Yates maintained his signature air of affluence and power.

A soft string quartet played classical music in the background, adding to the refined ambiance of the gathering. The mood was celebratory, with laughter and conversations filling the grand hall. Yet, Wilson remained in the shadows, seemingly untouched by the festivity around him.

Despite the lively celebration, Wilson's stoicism stood in stark contrast to the spirited atmosphere. He remained secluded, observing the evening's proceedings with a distant detachment, as though the celebration had little bearing on him.

The grand party continued, and the hours passed with Wilson standing alone in his self-imposed isolation, a man yielding in the face of revelry.

As the grand celebration continued, the attendees mingled and engaged in lively conversations. Among the distinguished guests was Dr. Alexander Blackwood, the talented surgeon who had overseen Jacob Cullen's surgery, a man with a reputation for his medical expertise and a heart of gold.

Alexander Blackwood was a striking man. He stood tall with an air of confidence, his dark hair neatly combed back. His chiseled jawline and intense blue eyes made him appear both charismatic and dashing. He carried himself with an easy grace, his tailored suit emphasizing his athletic build. The combination of rugged handsomeness and a disarming smile often left a lasting impression on those he met.

Alexander spotted his childhood friend, Wilson Yates, standing in the corner of the lavish venue, seemingly detached from the festive atmosphere. He navigated through the elegant crowd with grace, making his way over to Wilson.

Alexander approached Wilson, a wry smile on his face. He clapped his old friend on the back. "Well, well, well, if it isn't the prodigal son finally making an appearance."

Wilson arched an eyebrow, his cold exterior showing no sign of surprise. "Alexander. It's been a while."

Alexander chuckled, ignoring Wilson's aloofness. "A while? That's an understatement, old friend. You've been abroad for years! What have you been up to?"

Wilson sipped his wine casually. "Studies. And you know how it is. It keeps you busy."

Alexander's smile widened as he leaned closer. "Busy? More like distant and elusive. You've got an entire social life waiting for you, and you decide to skip out on everyone."

Wilson remained unfazed, but a hint of amusement danced in his eyes. "I have my reasons, Alex."

Alexander shook his head, still grinning. "Well, I'm glad you decided to show up today. Everyone's been curious about your return. And this party? It's spectacle. You must have some big news."

Wilson's gaze remained enigmatic. "I'm here, aren't I?"

Alexander was undeterred by his friend's reserved demeanor. "Indeed, you are. Come on, let's catch up. There's so much you've missed."

The two friends moved away from the crowd, their conversation filled with the kind of easy camaraderie that only long-time friends shared.

Wilson turned to Alexander, his demeanor softening just slightly. "You know, there's something I should thank you for, Alex."

Alexander looked intrigued. "Oh? What's that?"

Wilson glanced around the grand party, ensuring that no one was eavesdropping on their conversation. "For saving Jacob Cullen's life. I owe you one."

Alexander nodded, a solemn expression replacing his earlier joviality. "I did what I could, Wilson. It's my duty as a doctor. I'm just glad I could help."

However, Alexander's curiosity got the best of him, and he leaned in a bit closer. "Wilson, I can't help but wonder... why did you help the Cullen family? I mean, you've been away for so long, and this doesn't seem like your usual crowd."

Wilson's gaze shifted from the doctor to the rest of the partygoers, acknowledging the truth in Alexander's observation. After a moment of silence, he responded, his voice laced with a hint of indifference. "That, Alex, is none of your business."

Alexander raised an eyebrow, not satisfied with the cryptic answer but realizing that prying further might not be in his best interest. "Fair enough," he said, deciding not to press the matter.

Alexander's expression grew serious as he leaned in closer to Wilson, his voice lowered. "I've noticed that you seem to care so much about this family. So, I think it's important you know about Jacob's condition. It's not looking good. He's in a vegetative state, and, well, we're not sure if he'll ever wake up."

Wilson listened attentively, his features remaining cool and composed. "I see. What's the best course of action?"

Alexander sighed, his shoulders tense with the weight of the situation. "There's not much we can do medically. It's mostly a matter of time and support from his loved ones."

Wilson met Alexander's eyes with a steely resolve. "I trust in your skills, Alex. You're an excellent doctor, and I know you'll do everything you can to help him. Take good care of him."

Alexander nodded, "I'll do my best."

Their conversation shifted to other topics, veering away from the complexities and mysteries that seemed to surround Wilson Yates' return and his unexpected involvement in the Cullen family's affairs. Yet, the enigma of it all lingered, hanging in the air like an unspoken question that only time would answer.

Alexander couldn't resist prying further. "So, Wilson, have you found a woman? Someone to fill that big empty mansion of yours?"

Wilson's response was cold and indifferent. "I have no time for such matters."

But Alexander wasn't easily deterred. He grinned mischievously. "Come on, old friend, don't tell me you've become a hermit. There must be someone out there who has caught your eye."

Wilson's jaw clenched, a hint of frustration in his eyes. "I've been busy, Alex. And no, there's no one."

Alexander gave him an understanding nod, though the twinkle in his eye hinted that he wasn't quite ready to drop the topic. "Well, let's hope you find someone who can thaw that icy heart of yours."

 Wilson's gaze remained stoic, his thoughts guarded. He offered no further response to Alexander's prying, maintaining his enigmatic and distant aura.

Alexander, having know his friend's disposition, decided to shift the conversation to lighter matters, allowing the grand party to carry on around them.

As the party buzzed around them, Alexander couldn't resist a playful grin as he continued the conversation. "You know, Wilson, I bet your father is already on the hunt for the perfect woman to introduce to you tonight. He's always been quite the matchmaker."

Wilson's eyes narrowed, a hint of irritation in his voice. "My father knows better than to interfere in my personal affairs."

Alexander chuckled at his friend's predictable response. "Come on, Wilson, we both know he likes to play cupid. And with an occasion like this, I wouldn't be surprised if he has a candidate in mind."

Wilson's expression remained unchanged, but his thoughts raced. The idea of his father trying to play matchmaker was nothing new, and he had no intention of indulging in such matters.