Farewell to Love: The CEO's Desperate Chase novel Chapter 190

The sharp tap of a glass rang out—clear, crisp, cutting through the gentle hum of conversation. Instantly, the lights dimmed, and a single spotlight swept across the stage.

Chloe stepped into the glow, her strapless cocktail dress shimmering beneath the gaze of the crowd.

"Ladies and gentlemen!" Her smile was radiant, bright as the city lights outside. "Thank you all for coming to my homecoming reception. Starting today, I, Chloe, am officially returning to join the family business. I look forward to working with you all…"

Tyler, the only son of his branch of the Erickson family, watched her from the shadow of a marble column. But the Ericksons had another star—Miss Erickson herself, Chloe.

Chloe was Tyler's cousin, the cherished daughter of Uncle Parker, and the apple of his eye. Even during her university years, she'd already begun handling international business affairs for the family. Now, fresh from her graduate studies at Ivy League Cerulion, Chloe was more dazzling than ever—a true rising star in the Erickson legacy. She wore her confidence like a badge of honor; the title "Miss Erickson" fit her perfectly.

Chloe's speech was far from over, her words flowing effortlessly across the room. From the sidelines, Emilia caught snippets of the murmured conversations around her.

"A master's degree in finance, and on a full scholarship, no less. Graduated summa cum laude. Miss Erickson is something else."

"Absolutely. Just two years ago, when she was twenty-three, she handled a high-risk overseas incident in Cerulion herself. I heard there was even a shootout involved—she was right in the thick of it. Cerulion isn't like here; carrying a gun is legal. She's got guts."

"No kidding. That's why she deserves the title. The Erickson family has other daughters, but none quite like her."

"I heard she managed most of the international negotiations over there, built up quite a network. Now that she's back, everyone's wondering where she'll land in the company."

The buzz of speculation swirled around them.

Meanwhile, Tyler's phone buzzed again in his pocket. He frowned and glanced at the caller ID—Jensen.

Jensen?

He hesitated, then stepped out of the ballroom into a quieter corridor to answer.

"What is it?" Tyler's tone was clipped.

Why would the police be interested in Eugene?

Could it be about that incident…?

"Do we have any trace of Eugene's whereabouts?" His voice chilled further.

"Still nothing, sir. The team down here delayed reporting for too long; most of the leads have dried up." Jensen sounded almost panicked.

If that incident came to light… it would trigger a chain reaction no one could control.

It was a serious matter—vicious, even.

They'd chosen to bury it back then. Now, if it surfaced again, there would be little anyone could do—especially now…