Chapter 21 – Moving in the Shadows

 Ethan stepped out of the university building, he saw a sleek black Rolls-Royce Phantom idling just beyond the gates. The vehicle exuded quiet dominance, the kind that made people instinctively straighten their backs. Fortunately, none of his classmates had noticed it yet.

He smirked to himself. Perfect timing.

With a casual stride, he made his way over and slipped into the back seat, the soft leather swallowing him in comfort. The door shut with a muted click, sealing him in from the outside world.

Not even a second later, he heard the murmurs start.

"Whoa, did you see that car?"

"Damn, who does it belong to?"

"Must be some CEO or a big shot. That's not something a student can afford."

Ethan merely chuckled under his breath as the tinted windows prevented anyone from seeing inside. He leaned back against the seat, resting one arm on the door while turning his gaze toward the man in the driver's seat.

James Windsor, his ever-efficient butler and general manager, met his gaze through the rearview mirror.

"Young Master Ethan," James greeted smoothly, merging into traffic. "I take it you've had an eventful morning?"

Ethan smirked. "You could say that."

James nodded. "Shall I begin?"

Ethan inclined his head slightly. "Go on."

---

James adjusted his tie slightly before speaking. "First, I must formally apologize for neglecting to inform you of an important matter earlier."

Ethan raised an eyebrow, waiting.

James continued, "You are engaged to Myra Langford, the only daughter of Alexander Langford."

Silence settled in the car for a moment.

Ethan let out a low chuckle, shaking his head. "And here I thought I had no more surprises left."

James remained composed. "The engagement was arranged by Mr. Langford before his passing. However, the decision of whether to honor it remains entirely yours."

Ethan exhaled slowly, tapping his fingers on the car door. "Tell me about her."

James obliged. "Myra Langford, twenty-one years old. She studied international business and is currently involved in managing the Langford family's vast investments. Her reputation is immaculate—intelligent, ambitious, and highly sought after in elite circles."

Ethan smirked. "And she has no idea I exist, does she?"

James hesitated for a brief second. "It is unlikely. To the public, you were never acknowledged as part of the Langford family. Your existence was intentionally hidden."

Ethan laughed under his breath. "So, I have a fiancée who doesn't even know I'm her fiancé. Fantastic."

James, ever the professional, continued without reacting. "As per Mr. Langford's last wish, you were given the right to choose whether to proceed with the engagement or not."

Ethan hummed thoughtfully. "And if I reject it?"

"Nothing changes," James stated. "The Langfords will continue as they always have, and you will remain in control of your inheritance regardless."

Ethan tilted his head, eyes gleaming with intrigue. "But if I accept…"

James' expression didn't shift. "Then you will be tied to one of the most powerful families in the country."

Ethan leaned back, staring out the window. Interesting.

For now, he'd keep his options open.

---

Shifting gears, James spoke again. "There are also matters regarding Lucas Morelli."

Ethan's gaze sharpened. "Viper?"

"Yes. He has ensured that all operations under his control run smoothly per your directives. Additionally, he has been handling certain… nuisances who may pose a future threat to you."

Ethan chuckled. "Viper's being proactive, huh?"

James allowed a small nod. "Loyalty is a survival skill in his world, Young Master."

Ethan exhaled, amused. Lucas Morelli understood his place—and that was good.

James then brought up another issue. "There's also the matter of your class gathering tonight."

Ethan's smirk faded slightly. "Lucas Aldridge."

James inclined his head. "Would you like me to make arrangements?"

Ethan tapped his fingers against the armrest. "No need. Let's see how things play out first."

"As you wish."

---

Twenty minutes later, the Rolls-Royce pulled into an underground parking lot of a high-end residential building.

Ethan arched a brow. "I assume this isn't my shabby apartment."

James, stepping out to open Ethan's door, gave a polite smile. "No, Young Master. This is the Langford penthouse."

Ethan glanced up at the towering structure before stepping out. "A bit excessive for a student, don't you think?"

James merely gestured toward the private elevator. "After you."

Ethan walked in, and the doors slid shut behind them.

As the elevator ascended, James spoke again. "This residence has been kept in your name for years. It is fully staffed, secured, and tailored to meet all your needs."

Ethan glanced at him, amused. "And no one finds it suspicious that a university student owns a penthouse?"

James smirked slightly. "The property records are well-hidden. To the world, this is simply another asset under an anonymous holding company."

Ethan nodded approvingly.

The elevator doors opened, revealing the luxurious penthouse. Floor-to-ceiling windows offered a breathtaking view of the city skyline. The interior was sleek, modern, and furnished with the finest materials.

Ethan stepped inside, taking it all in.

"Well," he muttered, running a hand through his hair. "It's a step up from my old apartment, that's for sure."

James merely bowed slightly. "Would you like a tour?"

Ethan waved him off. "Later. I need a shower first."

James nodded. "Understood. I'll have breakfast prepared in the meantime."

Ethan smirked. "You really do think of everything, don't you?"

James gave a small smile. "It is my duty, Young Master."

---baby

As Ethan stepped into the master bathroom, he turned on the water, letting the hot steam fill the room.

He stared at his reflection in the mirror.

A fiancée. A hidden empire. A world that was his to control.

He chuckled, shaking his head.

"Alexander Langford… you sure left me one hell of a life."

Stepping into the shower, he let the water wash over him, preparing himself for what was to come.

Tonight, he had a class gathering to attend.

And Lucas Aldridge was about to learn exactly who he was dealing with.