Chapter 56: Shadows of Temptation

Jackim sat at the back of the grand lecture hall, his presence unnoticed by most. The air buzzed with hushed gossip about an upcoming charity gala, where only the wealthiest and most influential students had received invitations. He had one too, but no one would believe it if he mentioned it. He remained the subject of mockery among his peers, despite the unimaginable wealth he had inherited in secret.

The students in front of him whispered excitedly about the event.

"I heard the CEO of Zenith Tech is attending," a girl murmured to her friend, both dressed in designer outfits that screamed wealth. "Imagine the connections we could make!"

Jackim smirked inwardly. He was the hidden owner of Zenith Tech, but revealing that would only invite more problems. It was amusing how the same people who mocked him for wearing simple clothes were desperate for a chance to impress the people in his circle.

---

That evening, the venue was a dazzling masterpiece—gold chandeliers, flowing champagne, and a sea of designer gowns and tailored suits. Jackim entered unnoticed, dressed in an elegant yet understated tuxedo. No one spared him a second glance, which was exactly how he wanted it.

The real stars of the night were the elites of the business world and the most sought-after girls on campus. One in particular, Cynthia, a well-known influencer with a trail of admirers, had her eyes set on capturing the attention of a billionaire tonight.

Jackim found himself seated at a quiet corner table, sipping on a drink, when a familiar voice interrupted his solitude.

"Jackim?" It was Sophie, his ex-girlfriend. Her eyes widened slightly, surprised to see him here. "How did you get in?"

He gave a lazy smile. "Invitation."

She scoffed, scanning him from head to toe. "Right. You? At a gala like this?" She laughed before moving along, clearly uninterested in further conversation.

Little did she know that the man she just brushed off was wealthier than everyone in this room combined.

---

Later that night, as the event neared its climax, Jackim received an unexpected visitor. A woman, draped in a dangerously alluring red dress, slid into the seat across from him. Her striking emerald eyes held a knowing glint.

"Jackim Jackson," she purred, tilting her glass. "You're quite the mystery."

Jackim raised an eyebrow. "And you are?"

"Someone who appreciates power hidden beneath simplicity." She leaned in, her perfume intoxicating. "I have an offer for you. One that might change your life."

Jackim smirked. My life has already changed in ways you can't imagine. But he played along. "I'm listening."

The night had only just begun, and it seemed fate had another twist in store for him.