A Vow of Deception, A Vow of Revenge novel Chapter 123

The diamond ballroom of the Grandview Hotel glowed with warmth and anticipation as Mr. Dalton's sixtieth birthday celebration got underway. Celia, impeccably dressed and radiant, held onto Tyson's arm as they entered the venue together.

A milestone birthday like this demanded meticulous planning, and the guest list was packed with prominent names. By the time they arrived, the room was already bustling. Tyson's presence caught the attention of several guests. One man seemed about to greet him, but someone at his side whispered a few hurried words in his ear. The man's expression shifted instantly, his gaze flickering over Tyson before he quickly looked away, abandoning any intention of small talk.

Tyson's fingers curled a little tighter around Celia's hand, though his face remained composed.

"What was that about?" Celia muttered, her brow knitting in annoyance.

What else could it be? News of Tyson's falling out with Elvis had clearly made the rounds. After all, their last confrontation happened at a gathering full of high society's elite sons—rumors spread fast in circles like these.

Tyson's eyes scanned the ballroom, skipping from group to group until, in a shadowy corner, he spotted Jared. Seeing Tyson, Jared couldn't very well pretend he hadn't—he squared his shoulders and made his way over, lowering his voice as he greeted them.

"Tyson, you made it. And… is this your sister?" Jared's eyes widened as he looked at Celia. "Didn't expect you to bring her instead of your girlfriend."

Tyson's grip tightened for a split second, but before he could respond, Celia cut in with a playful laugh. "Mr. Drake, is it so strange for me to show up?"

She surreptitiously pinched Tyson's arm with her manicured fingers.

Tyson winced, but kept silent.

"N-not at all," Jared stammered, scratching his head, embarrassed. "Just making conversation, that's all."

He hesitated, glancing at Tyson. "By the way, Mr. Rogers will be here tonight too."

"Oh? Am I supposed to hide from him?" Tyson replied coolly. "Mr. Dalton was my father's old friend. He invited me personally."

"Exactly! Tyson's practically the guest of honor tonight," Celia chimed in, her voice bright.

Just then, a murmur swept through the ballroom.

"Isn't that Mr. Rogers?"

"Mr. Rogers just arrived!"

Tyson let out a low, cold laugh and turned, along with everyone else, toward the entrance.

Sure enough, Elvis strode into the ballroom. At his side was a woman, elegant and poised, her arm looped through his.

The moment Tyson saw her, his pupils contracted sharply. He stared, unable to believe it, as the color drained from his face.