CHAPTER 7: THE PARTY 2

DOWNSTAIRS – PARTY HALL

"Guys, excuse me, I'm coming," Mark told his friends before walking toward the corner where a maid, dressed in a serving uniform, was handing out drinks.

"Cassy," he called out.

"Sir."

"Follow me."

They walked to a dark corner.

"So, how is it?" Mark asked in a hushed voice.

"It is done, sir," Cassy replied.

"I hope it's flawless."

"Yes, sir."

"You can go back to work."

Mark left, returning to his group of friends and blending in with them.

"So, Mark, how's the competition going?" Friend A asked.

"It's good," Mark replied casually.

"I believe you'll be the Books' heir," Friend B added.

"Yes, I believe so. Cam and Zoe are not in my league; they don't stand a chance, while the—"

"The real son," Friend C interrupted. "The news has been spreading among the social elite."

"That one?" Mark scoffed. "He's just a country bumpkin who has never seen the world—raised in an orphanage."

"But he's still the real son," Friend D pointed out.

"I talked to Daddy, and he said he only brought him home because of blood ties, but I will always be his only son and heir. Tell me, if Daddy has already spoken, can anyone else decide?"

"You're right, Mark. You're the real heir," Friend A said, fawning over him.

"Yes," the rest of his friends chimed in, echoing their agreement.

"Guys, let's watch as the so-called real son graces us with his presence," Mark sneered.

At that moment, Wren appeared behind them, dressed in a superior suit, effortlessly drawing everyone's attention.

"Are you talking about me?"

"You're here?" Mark asked in surprise, looking around in disbelief.

"Why don't you turn around?" Wren suggested.

Mark turned, his eyes widening in shock as he took in Wren's flawless appearance.

"Surprised?" Wren smirked. "I know I'm handsome, so stop drooling."

"You… shut up!" Mark snapped.

"Stop talking to Young Master Mark like that!" Friend A interjected.

"Yes, you country bumpkin," Friend B sneered.

"I'm not surprised. That's why Mr. Books ignored you—bad omen," Friend C added.

"Don't count yourself among the heirs," Friend D scoffed. "Mr. Books already chose Mark. These are just formalities."

"Who are those mosquitoes buzzing around? I don't see anyone," Wren said, looking around dramatically as if searching for invisible pests.

"What—"

"Mark, I never knew you were some sort of queen bee who needs followers to boost your morale."

"Don't insult my friends!"

"Friends? Whatever you say. I don't have time for jobless people. And also, Mark…"

"What?" Mark snapped, already seething with anger.

Wren walked up close, making sure only the two of them could hear what he was about to say.

"Wren—1, Mark—0. Make sure to come up with a better trick next time, bitch."

Mark stood there, speechless.

As Wren walked away, he could still hear Mark's followers scolding him. He was certain they would come up with a better plan to deal with him soon.

The moment Wren was out of their sight, he hurried into the bathroom and locked the door.

"They're right… I should've just stayed an orphan," he whispered, tears streaming down his face.

A knock echoed through the room.

"Give me a minute," Wren said, trying to steady his voice.

"Open up. It's me," Dee's voice called from the other side.

Wren hesitated, then unlocked the door.

"Are you crying?" Dee asked, concern lacing his tone.

"No, I'm not," Wren lied, quickly turning away so Dee wouldn't see his face.

But Dee wasn't having it. He grabbed Wren's arm, gently turning him so they were face to face.

"Don't cry," Dee said softly.

Without thinking, Wren threw himself into Dee's arms and sobbed.

"They said I'm a bad omen."

"You're not."

"They said Dad doesn't love me."

"He does."

"Then why won't he come see me? And why did it take so long for them to find me?"

"It's a long story. But when your dad comes, you can ask him."

"What about my mom?"

"They both love you, but they're busy."

"With work? Is work more important than their long-lost son?"

"Some work is important. Be patient."

"…Okay." Wren sniffled, slowly calming down.

"Clean up. Let's go back to the party."

"Thank you, Dee."

"You're welcome." Dee left the bathroom.

As soon as the door closed, Wren burst into laughter.

"Even the Almighty God gave us His blessing. What happened at the party made me emotional, and he noticed—which means I got his attention!"

Wren quickly cleaned his face and adjusted his clothes.

"Time for 'My Man Alliance for Future Boyfriend Finding' to launch Jealousy Mode Attack. And also… I want to see what Mark's next move will be."

Smirking, Wren stepped out of the bathroom and headed back to the party.

Question

What do you think of Wren's boldness? And what trick do you think Mark will pull next? Drop your thoughts in the comments!