(MILE CITY)
The grand hall of the Sterling family manor was a marvel of grace, opulence, and grandeur. Crystal chandeliers hung from the intricately painted ceiling, casting a sparkling glow across the room.
The walls were adorned with rich tapestries and gilded mirrors, reflecting the opulent surroundings. The tables were set with fine china, silverware polished to a gleam, and centerpieces of fresh flowers that added a touch of natural elegance to the sumptuous setting.
Attendants in crisp uniforms moved gracefully through the hall, offering trays of canapés and glasses of champagne.
Guests mingled in clusters, their attire marking a clear distinction between the elite and the rest.
The wealthy wore designer gowns and tailored suits, their jewelry glittering in the soft light, while the others were dressed in more modest, corporate attire. This division was an unspoken norm, a reflection of the city's deep-seated class distinctions.
People had traveled from various parts of the country to attend the event.
Among the crowd, Eileen Sterling, moved with poised confidence. It was her 25th birthday, and her presence commanded the attention of everyone in the room.
Eileen had long, chestnut hair that cascaded in soft waves down her back, and she wore a stunning emerald green gown that complemented her striking green eyes. Her smile was warm yet reserved, reflecting her role as both an heiress and a businesswoman.
As she navigated the crowd, well-wishers approached her with gifts.
"Eileen, happy birthday!" an older gentleman said, handing her a small, elegantly wrapped box.
"Thank you, Mr. Jenkins," Eileen replied, smiling. She handed the gift to her assistant. "Clive, take this."
A young woman approached next, her eyes shining with admiration. "You look absolutely stunning, Eileen. That gown is amazing!"
"Thank you, Shayla," Eileen responded graciously, tilting her head slightly. "I'm glad you could make it."
She continued to clink glasses with those who toasted her, though she did not drink, merely raising her glass in response.
Among the guests, two familiar faces, Lydia and Martina, made their way toward her. Both heiresses like Eileen, they were dressed in equally extravagant gowns.
"Eileen, you look stunning," Shayla exclaimed, her eyes wide with admiration.
Martina nodded in agreement. "The event is fabulous. The decorations are exquisite."
Eileen smiled at them, a genuine warmth in her eyes. "Thank you both. I'm glad you're enjoying it."
Martina leaned in slightly, lowering her voice. "Did you hear about the Mitchell's party? Quite the competition, isn't it?"
Eileen's smile tightened momentarily. "Yes, I've heard. But tonight is about celebrating here, with all of you." She turned to Clive. "Clive, please take note of any other gifts that come in."
She excused herself from her friends and made her way to the section where the less affluent guests were gathered, greeting them with the same courtesy she afforded the elite.
Eileen was not a spoiled heiress; she was approachable yet carried the gravitas of a seasoned businesswoman.
"Heiress Eileen, happy birthday!" A middle-aged woman in a simple dress approached her, a warm smile on her face.
"Thank you so much, Mrs. Greene," Eileen replied, taking the woman's hand in both of hers. "I appreciate you being here."
A group of younger employees from her company stood nearby, looking slightly out of place amidst the opulence. Eileen approached them with a welcoming smile.
"Miss Sterling, happy birthday," one of the young men said nervously, handing her a small bouquet of flowers.
"Thank you, Tom," Eileen said, her eyes softening. "These are lovely. How is everything at the office?"
"Going well, thanks to your guidance," he replied, his face brightening.
Eileen nodded, pleased. "I'm glad to hear it. Enjoy the evening, all of you. There's plenty of food and drinks, so please help yourselves."
As she continued to mingle, she suddenly remembered an important matter and turned to Clive. "Did the Global G send a representative or a message for the event?" she asked.
The Global G company held the top ranking in the country, and their absence was notable. Though, the owner was anonymous.
Clive shook his head. "No, Miss Sterling. Today happens to be the same day the Mitchell family is celebrating the return of their heir. It seems most of the elite have gone there instead."
Eileen scoffed, her expression hardening for a moment. "Typical. Well, no problem," she said, regaining her composure. "Go around and welcome the guests, Clive. I will find Howard."
Clive bowed and departed, leaving Eileen to scan the room with determination. She would not be overshadowed by anyone, least of all the Mitchell family.
Both families were sworn enemies, even Eileen didn't know why but she grew into it. Grew into hating the Mitchell's, especially their heir, Cillian Mitchell!
As she moved through the crowd, she finally spotted Howard sitting on a plush chair, her younger sister Emily nestled beside him.
Emily, with her delicate health, had always drawn a special kind of attention from everyone, including Howard.
She was resting her head on his shoulder, looking fragile and content.
For a moment, a flash of doubt crossed Eileen's mind. She quickly dismissed it, reminding herself that Howard's affection for Emily was likely born out of a protective, almost brotherly instinct.
She composed herself and walked over to them, her smile never faltering.
"Howard," she called softly, her voice warm as she approached.
Howard looked up and his face lit up. "Leen, you look beautiful."
"Thank you," she replied, her smile deepening.
Eileen turned to her sister, gently touching her arm. "How are you feeling, Millie?"
Emily looked up, her eyes bright but tired. She smiled at Eileen but didn't reply, continuing to cling to Howard.
Eileen waited, expecting Howard to wish her a happy birthday or offer her a gift, but he merely continued talking.
"Have you greeted the Thompsons yet?" Howard asked, his tone businesslike. "And the Fords? They arrived just a bit ago."
"Yes, I have," Eileen nodded, trying to keep her disappointment hidden.
"And what about the Martins? They were hoping to speak with you."
"I greeted them as well," she replied, her voice steady.
Howard seemed oblivious to her underlying hopes. "Good, it's important we make sure everyone feels welcomed."
After a few more exchanges about the guests, Eileen felt a pang of sadness. He hadn't even mentioned her birthday.
Forcing a polite smile, she excused herself. "If you'll excuse me, I have more guests to attend to."
"Of course," Howard said, his attention already back on Emily.
Eileen walked away, her heart heavy. She felt a bit hurt that Howard hadn't acknowledged her birthday or their engagement, which had been ongoing for a year without any announcement of a wedding date.
She hoped that perhaps later in the evening, he might still do something special. For now, she would continue to play the perfect hostess, pushing her personal feelings aside.