Chapter 67: Preparing for the Grand Banquet

The morning sun bathed the luxurious mansion in a golden glow as the family stirred to life. The air carried a sense of anticipation, for tonight was no ordinary evening—it was the grand banquet hosted by the mother's closest friend, a woman as powerful as she was kind, and one of the richest individuals in the world. The invitation had come unexpectedly the night before, but refusing was never an option. It was not merely a social gathering but an event where the most influential figures of the world would be present.

As the protagonist sat at the breakfast table, he listened to his mother explaining the importance of the event while his sisters busied themselves with last-minute arrangements. Though he had slowly grown accustomed to venturing outside, the thought of being surrounded by unfamiliar people made his heart race with uncertainty. His mother, sensing his hesitation, reached out and placed a gentle hand over his.

"Sweetheart, I'll be with you the entire time," she assured him. "You don't have to speak to anyone if you don't want to. Just stay close to me."

Her warmth eased the tension in his chest, though a small part of him still felt nervous. He had never attended a banquet before. What would it be like? How would people react to him? His father, noticing his worried expression, placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder.

"You're part of this family," his father said with quiet conviction. "You don't need to prove anything to anyone."

His sisters chimed in, their voices filled with excitement.

"We'll be there too!" one of them exclaimed. "And trust me, no one's going to bother you. If they do, they'll have to answer to us."

The playful yet protective tone in their voices made him smile. Even in the midst of his worries, their unwavering support never failed to comfort him.

Choosing the Attire: The Family's Transformation

As the afternoon arrived, preparations for the banquet began in earnest. Each member of the family required an ensemble fitting for such a high-profile event. The protagonist, still unfamiliar with formal fashion, watched in fascination as his sisters debated over gowns, jewelry, and accessories.

His mother guided him to his personal wardrobe, filled with tailored suits that had been made just for him. She picked out a sophisticated yet comfortable ensemble—a black velvet suit with delicate golden embroidery, paired with a silk shirt that complemented his soft complexion.

"Try this on, my love," she said, kneeling in front of him to help adjust his tie.

He fidgeted slightly as she worked, not used to the feeling of the finely woven fabric against his skin. His mother's hands were gentle yet precise as she ensured every detail was perfect. When she was finished, she led him to the full-length mirror.

Looking at his reflection, he barely recognized himself. The young boy staring back at him looked refined, elegant, and so much like his father. Yet, deep down, he was still the same child who had once hidden away from the world.

His mother smiled, brushing a stray lock of hair from his forehead. "You look just like a prince."

His sisters, now dressed in their dazzling gowns, entered the room and gasped in admiration.

"Our little brother is going to steal the show tonight," one of them teased, lightly ruffling his hair.

Blushing, he buried his face against his mother's dress, making them all laugh.

Lessons in Banquet Etiquette

Despite his mother's assurance that he did not need to interact with anyone, his sisters decided to give him a crash course in banquet etiquette. He sat in the grand lounge while they demonstrated how to properly greet guests, engage in polite conversation, and even the correct way to hold utensils during a formal dinner.

At first, it all seemed overwhelming, but their playful approach made it easier for him. Instead of feeling pressured, he found himself laughing at their exaggerated demonstrations. His eldest sister, ever the perfectionist, made him repeat a simple greeting several times until he got it right, while another sister made faces behind her, causing him to burst into giggles.

His mother, watching from the side, simply smiled. Even amidst all the formality, they never forgot to make him feel at ease.

Final Preparations and Departing for the Banquet

As evening approached, the family gathered in the grand foyer, each one radiating an aura of elegance. His father, dressed in a perfectly tailored tuxedo, exuded authority and grace, while his mother looked ethereal in an exquisite gown that shimmered under the chandelier's light. His sisters, each embodying their own unique style, looked every bit like royalty.

The protagonist stood among them, feeling both nervous and proud. He was part of this extraordinary family, and tonight, he would step into a world he had never seen before.

The luxury convoy awaited them outside, a fleet of black and gold vehicles polished to perfection. As the doors were opened for them, his mother reached for his hand.

"Are you ready, my love?" she asked gently.

He took a deep breath, looked up at her, and nodded.

"Yes, Mama."

As they entered the car, he nestled beside her, feeling her warmth and reassurance. The journey to the banquet began, and with it, another step forward in his journey of overcoming the fears of his past.

Tonight would be a night to remember.