Francis turned and whispered sharply to one of his bodyguards. "Find Kelly. Tell him to get started with the plan. We'll make sure Jack regrets this."
Victoria, sensing the aura Jack exuded as he calmly handled the tension, glanced up at him with a raised eyebrow, her gaze filled with questions. She couldn't help but wonder how he managed this new world of wealth and fame with such poise. It was as if he had always belonged here. She thought, Maybe he truly was born to rule.
Jack seemed to sense her thoughts and gave her a quiet, reassuring smile, letting the moment's tension roll off him as he took in the grandeur surrounding them. The soft music, the gentle scent of fresh orchids, the warm glow of the chandeliers—it all felt like a glimpse into his mother's world.
At that moment, Selena entered quietly, having followed their convoy on her Harley Davidson. She moved through the crowd with a natural grace, her gaze focused and observant as she took in every detail. Standing at a distance, she kept her eyes on Jack, an unreadable expression in her gaze. When he spotted her, he gave her a subtle nod, acknowledging her presence.
As they continued toward the private elevator, Victoria leaned in closer, her tone barely above a whisper. "Jack, are you sure you're ready for this?"
Jack scanned the luxurious surroundings, his expression calm yet resolved. "I am," he replied softly. "Tonight, I'm just Jack Mason. Nothing more, nothing less."
His words seemed to ease her concerns, and together they stepped into the elevator, ready to head to the exclusive suite.
Meanwhile, Selena discreetly tapped on her phone, sending a message to an unknown contact: "Ensure everything he requires is available. He is the future King and heir."
She pocketed her phone and resumed her quiet vigilance. Unknown to her, Thomas had been watching, his suspicions growing. He quickly snapped a picture of her with his phone, sending it to Richard. On the other end, Richard received the image and immediately ran a background check, only to find that her face was untraceable—her identity, it seemed, had been concealed. and immediately ran a background check, only to find that her face was untraceable
The concierge returned with a respectful bow, addressing Jack directly. "Mr. Mason, the Diamond Penthouse is now ready for you and your guests." His words sent a ripple of shock through the group.
"The penthouse is… ready?"
"This is unreal… who is he?"
The students whispered in astonishment, unable to comprehend how Jack—once considered the "class pauper"—could have such exclusive access. Their disbelief grew as they compared him to Francis, the known Mason's heir-to-be, who had arrived with high expectations but still couldn't secure the coveted suite.
Francis glared, barely able to mask his anger. "So, you've got a powerful sponsor, Jack. Must be convenient, riding on Richard's coattails through his little sister," he sneered. "How does it feel, relying on others for everything you have?"
But Jack remained calm, ignoring Francis's taunts as he and Victoria followed the concierge. Several classmates who had quietly rooted against Francis trailed behind, eager to see this mythical suite. They entered a private elevator, lined with mirrored gold panels and gleaming with illuminated blue button lights that cast a soft, luxurious glow.
As the doors opened onto the Diamond Penthouse, an icy blast of cool, conditioned air met them. The students gasped in awe as they stepped inside, some marveling at the perfect chill, while others quickly searched for the remote to adjust the temperature. The space before them seemed to stretch endlessly, with floor-to-ceiling windows that framed a panoramic view of the city below.
A sleek telescope sat near the windows, inviting guests to take in a closer, breathtaking look at the distant landscape, while ambient lighting set a serene, otherworldly tone across the room.
Inside, the penthouse was vast and expertly partitioned into luxurious living areas: a plush living room with animal-fur sofas so soft they appeared to float, a private dining area with gleaming leather chairs, and an elegant kitchen fitted with the latest appliances. Just outside on a spacious terrace lay a heated swimming pool, shimmering under the dim glow of the city lights.
But it was the fine details that truly defined the Diamond Penthouse. Each chandelier hanging from the high ceilings was crafted from pure diamonds, casting a mesmerizing, star-like glow across the room. The dining table was edged with diamond inlays, each stone reflecting light in perfect symmetry. Even the sofa pillows bore diamond accents, and a glittering buffet section sparkled in the soft light, ready to serve any delicacy they desired.
The students walked in silence, mouths agape at the opulence before them. The Diamond Penthouse was more than a suite—it was a testament to extraordinary wealth and taste. Jack looked around, barely able to process the grandeur that his late mother had designed with such vision and precision.
Victoria glanced at him, clearly moved by the elegance surrounding them. Jack took a deep breath, feeling the magnitude of it all. This was more than just a suite—it was a glimpse into his heritage, a legacy he was only just beginning to understand.
As the lavish buffet was arranged, Victoria's eyes widened, realizing they were being served some of the world's most luxurious seafood. At the center was a grilled Alaskan King Crab, known for its sweet and delicate meat. Nearby, tender abalone, the "emperor's delicacy," braised in soy and premium seasonings, awaited eager diners. A rare sight, geoduck sashimi—a large clam, prized for its crisp texture and briny sweetness—was carefully prepared. And to their astonishment, even pufferfish (fugu), a delicate, chewy delicacy prepared only by master chefs, was served on elegant platters.
As the buffet table continued to fill, more exquisite dishes emerged: Hokkaido uni (sea urchin), prized for its creamy texture and sweet ocean flavor, and braised unagi kabayaki (Japanese eel), known for its perfectly marinated richness. Sea cucumber, esteemed in many cultures for its medicinal benefits, was artfully stewed, and a large tureen of shark fin soup—a rare banquet luxury—steamed with an earthy aroma, its unique texture evident. Lobster sashimi, with its natural sweetness and firm texture, was arranged alongside Matsuba crab, a premium snow crab steamed to perfection.
The dishes seemed endless. At the far end of the table were drunken prawns, their freshness preserved by being soaked in rich rice wine, their aroma wafting through the room. Bird's nest with sea cucumber, Boston lobster in XO sauce, South Sea black pearl oysters, and golden pomfret—all graced the spread with their opulent presentation.
Jack looked around, trying to absorb it all. The names of these delicacies—called out by Victoria and other students in awe—were new to him. He was taken aback by the extravagance, recalling that, until now, he'd known nothing more decadent than his Grandma Grace's porridge. But now, rare offerings like bluefin tuna belly (otoro), prized for its rich, buttery flavor, and yellow croaker fish, delicately steamed with its rare roe, were laid before him, seemingly from another world.
And yet, the luxury didn't end there. As waiters arrived with trays, the most exclusive Eastern drinks began to appear, each a masterpiece in its own right. Maotai baijiu, known as China's "national liquor," filled ornate crystal glasses, and Kopi Luwak, a rare civet coffee, was served in delicate cups, its smooth, velvety aroma wafting through the room. Aged wines like Ao Yun and the esteemed Jade Sword Green Tea from Taiwan complemented the seafood. Next came the world-famous Yamazaki 50-Year Single Malt Whisky and Tieguanyin (Iron Goddess) tea from China, adding a hint of elegance and tradition.
But then, the waiters presented drinks that bordered on myth: The Macallan Fine & Rare Collection, a whisky valued over a million dollars, and the legendary D'Amalfi Limoncello Supreme, with a price of around $44 million, its bottle embedded with diamonds. Tequila Ley .925, a limited-edition crafted from pure platinum and gold and valued at $3.5 million, was another highlight, alongside Goût de Diamants champagne, encrusted with Swarovski crystals, worth over $2 million.
It didn't stop. Isabella's Islay Whisky from Scotland ($6.2 million), Henri IV Dudognon Heritage Cognac from France ($2 million), and Château Margaux 1787, a historical wine priced at $225,000, dazzled the guests. There was Diva Vodka from Scotland ($1 million), Armand de Brignac Midas champagne, and Dalmore 62-Year-Old Single Malt Scotch, each bottle a collector's item.
Francis and his group took the private elevator up, still confident in their advantage. Yet when they arrived at the penthouse, their jaws dropped. They'd expected opulence, but this…this was beyond anything they could have imagined. Some of the students were left speechless, while others struggled to process the sight before them.
Francis, however, was visibly rattled, his usual pomp giving way to silent astonishment. As he scanned the buffet, he realized the array of seafood and rare drinks would cost a fortune—far beyond his financial reach. He glanced at Kelly, his expression furious.
"What…what is all this, Kelly?" Francis whispered, his voice low but filled with panic. "Did you make these orders?"
Kelly held up his hands, shrugging defensively. "Not me, Francis. I wouldn't dare order this much."
Francis's eyes narrowed in terror as he glanced back at the spread, overwhelmed by the looming cost. The bills for this event would run into billions, and with only a million dollars available to him, he was completely unprepared. Desperately, he looked around the room for Jack, intent on confronting him and attempting to salvage the situation.
Jack stood calmly by the window, watching the scene with quiet satisfaction, feeling the weight of his family's legacy around him. Francis's discomfort only deepened as he realized that Jack was, for the first time, unfazed.
Francis's anger was poorly masked as he approached Jack, trying to hide his fear behind a veil of scorn. "Jack," he sneered, "looks like you've grown wings overnight. Isn't this supposed to be just an after-birthday party? Why so extravagant? Who are you trying to impress, huh? And most importantly—how are you going to pay for all this?"
Jack stood by the window, his expression calm and unreadable as he absorbed Francis's words. Finally, he turned, meeting Francis's gaze with a steady look. With just five words, he made his point.
"Worry about your part of the payment."
Francis blinked, his confidence faltering. He stood there, speechless, trying to process Jack's unshaken confidence. Questions raced through his mind: Who was Jack? Just a penniless student from a remote village? who some weeks back was searching for a part-time gig so he could survive in school, Yet here he was, unfazed, throwing around the Mason name like it meant nothing. Francis felt a spark of dread; he needed to find out more about this new Jack, and soon. There could only be one heir to the Mason fortune, and it would not be Jack, but him Francis. Francis murmured to himself '' Has the table turned around? This was meant to be a trap but now, I think I'm stuck in this ''
Fuming, Francis stormed off, dropping into a seat nearby, and typing furiously on his phone. He needed a cash transfer from his mother—desperately. This "competition" with Jack was getting far too expensive for his liking.
Meanwhile, Rueben and Sam quietly approached Jack. They hadn't touched a single dish yet, unlike their classmates, who were already lost in the food and drinks, enjoying every bit of the luxury Jack's party had to offer.
Rueben looked at Jack with concern. "Jack," he began, keeping his voice low, "is there something you haven't told us? I mean, all this—" he gestured around at the penthouse suite, the food, the luxury. "What's going on?"
Jack hesitated, feeling the weight of his friends' trust. Rueben and Sam had stood by him through his hardships; they deserved the truth, or at least a part of it. After a moment, he nodded.
"Come with me," he said quietly, leading them to a nearby room. Victoria moved to follow, but Thomas stepped in front of her, gently blocking her path with a knowing look. He shook his head slightly, and she understood. The men needed this time alone.
Once inside, Jack sat on the bed, while Rueben and Sam sank into the plush, leather armchairs across from him. The room was silent, the anticipation heavy.
"Whatever I tell you here stays here," Jack said, his tone serious. "No one else can know."
Sam's face grew tense, and he raised a hand. "Look, if this is a matter of life or death, maybe we shouldn't—"
Rueben cut in, shaking his head. "Jack wouldn't put us in harm's way. I trust him. Go on, Jack."
Jack looked at his two friends, a faint smile softening his face. "Well, you know me as Jack Mason, but I'm more than just the name. I'm the true Mason heir. Heir to the throne."
Rueben's face filled with shock. "Wait… what? You're serious?"
Jack nodded, his face calm yet sincere. "I just found out myself," he admitted, recounting the story of his grandmother, his late mother, Jack Taylor, and his uncle Richard.
Sam was wide-eyed, his mouth agape. "This is like… some kind of story you'd see in a movie! Or read on a Web novel app! All this hidden royalty, a mystery family legacy—it's surreal, we're not dreaming right."
Jack allowed himself a small smile at Sam's reaction. But then Rueben leaned forward, eyes narrowed thoughtfully.
"Jack… so your father is Jack Taylor? The man famous in Q country for refusing to move on, still searching for his lost wife and unborn child?"
Jack blinked in surprise. "You… know him?"
Rueben chuckled. "Remember, my last name is Taylor. My dad's younger brother is Jack Taylor. In our family, it's practically a legend how my uncle was saved by a young boy after being chased by assassins. And that boy… is your Uncle Richard, isn't he?"
Jack nodded, astonished. "Yes. That boy was Richard."
Rueben suddenly looked at Jack with newfound wonder. "So… that makes us cousins?"
Sam stared at them, eyes wide, then threw his hands up. "Wait a minute! You two are family? My best friends are related?" He laughed, shaking his head in disbelief. "Maybe I should call my mom. We're probably related somehow too!"
"Sam, enough clowning," Rueben said, though he couldn't hide his amazement. "Jack, this changes everything, I'm related to the future King?." he smiled with contentment.
"Yeah, yeah, serious stuff," Sam said, still grinning. "But, Jack, seriously—does Francis know about this?"
"No," Jack said firmly. "No one else knows. And for now, that's how it has to stay. My identity is still a secret, and I intend to keep it that way until the time is right."
Rueben nodded solemnly. "Understood. This isn't something we can just share casually."
Sam, however, couldn't resist another question, this time barely able to contain his excitement. "Jack… exactly how rich are you?"
Rueben shot Sam an exasperated look. "Really, Sam? That's what you want to know?"
Jack laughed, amused. "Honestly, I don't know. But from what I've heard… I'm worth trillions in cash, but or assets, it's still been worked on."
The room fell silent as Sam jumped up, practically dancing around in excitement, while Rueben sank back, visibly shocked. The full weight of Jack's fortune—and his destiny—suddenly hit him.
Rueben swallowed, his voice barely a whisper. "So… you're the future King."
Sam's grin faded as the realization settled in, and both friends dropped to one knee, bowing their heads in unison. "Your Majesty, King Jack Mason," they said quietly, reverently.
Jack shook his head, his tone turning stern. "If you two keep kneeling, our friendship ends here."
They remained kneeling, unsure of what to do. Then Jack remembered, almost with irritation, the royal custom. "You may stand," he said, sighing as they rose.
"Jack, this is serious," Sam said. "You're a future king. We owe you our loyalty and respect."
Jack looked at them both. "Yes, but we're friends. Please, don't do this in public. If anyone finds out, I could be in danger. So don't throw me under the bus with your loyalty stuff I need you to act normal."
Rueben and Sam exchanged glances, nodding. "Understood, Jack."
Jack turned to Rueben. "Can you contact my father?"
Rueben sighed, shaking his head. "Unfortunately, my uncle disappeared without telling anyone where he was going. We don't know where he is."
Jack nodded thoughtfully. "Well, let's rejoin the party. And Sam," he added with a half-smile, "please keep it cool. I'm serious."
They returned to the celebration, where students were already enjoying the pool, food, and music. Victoria spotted them and whispered to one of the waiters before approaching Jack, taking his hand with gentle familiarity.
"Jack," she said softly, leaning close, "it's time to cut your cake."
Jack raised an eyebrow, surprised. "Cake? There's a cake?"
Victoria smiled. "Of course. And a huge one at that. Eighteen layers to mark your birthday." She gazed at him warmly, her eyes filled with a fondness that caught Jack off guard.
As they neared the pool area, a loud cheer rose from their classmates. Jack's jaw dropped at the sight before him. The cake was being airlifted up to the Diamond Penthouse by a team of hotel staff. The towering cake had eighteen layers, each adorned with intricate designs of blue and diamond, with gold script spelling out his name in elegant lettering.
"Did you do all this?" Jack asked, turning to Victoria in amazement.
Victoria nodded, her gaze steady. "Yes, Jack. You deserve this and much more."
Her words stirred something deep within him, a feeling he hadn't experienced in a while after he and Lucy broke up. As he looked at her, he was reminded of his first love, Lucy, though he quickly pushed the thought aside. Was it possible to see her as more than a friend and not a sister?
But before he could dwell on it, the crowd erupted with applause as the cake was lowered into place, and his classmates began singing, urging him to blow out the candles.
Jack stood before the cake, his friends by his side, feeling a strange mix of gratitude and purpose. He was more than a simple village boy now. He was Jack Mason, heir to the Mason legacy, with loyal friends by his side and a destiny yet to fulfill.
Selena kept her gaze on Jack, her expression serene yet vigilant. From across the room, she sensed a sharp, unwavering stare directed her way. She turned slowly, only to meet Thomas's intense gaze, his eyes filled with suspicion. She was prepared for this; Thomas had been watching her closely, but she remained unshaken.
Raising her hand with a friendly smile, she waved. "Hey, Thomas!" she greeted, crossing the room toward him with an easy, graceful stride. Her expression was as open and calm as if she were greeting an old friend. "How's the party?"
Thomas masked his initial surprise at her boldness, crossing his arms. "The party's… fine," he replied, forcing a casual tone. "Didn't expect it to be this grand. Jack's outdone himself."
Selena nodded, glancing briefly at Jack, who was surrounded by friends and laughter. "It's well-deserved, don't you think?" She let out a light chuckle. "After all, not every day you turn eighteen."
Thomas's gaze didn't soften, his suspicion barely hidden. "So you're… close to him?" he asked, his tone pointed.
Selena smiled faintly, sensing his challenge. "Close enough to celebrate a friend's birthday," she replied smoothly. Her voice was friendly, but her words were measured, careful not to give away more than necessary.
Thomas's brow furrowed slightly. "You keep saying 'friend,' but you seem to be paying more attention to him than a 'friend' would."
Selena met his gaze, unfazed. "Maybe I have a habit of watching out for people I care about," she replied, her voice unwavering. "Is that so unusual?"
Thomas gave a dry laugh. "Unusual? Maybe that's one way to put it. You look more like… someone with an agenda."
Her eyes glinted slightly, though her smile didn't waver. "Interesting observation," she replied. "And if I do have an agenda?"
Thomas leaned closer, his voice dropping to a low murmur. "Then I'd say you're going to have to tell me what that agenda is. Because if it concerns Jack, it concerns me."
Selena tilted her head, feigning surprise. "I had no idea you were so… protective of him," she said. "I suppose that makes two of us, then."
Thomas's eyes narrowed. "Let's be clear, Selena. I don't know what your game is, but I'm here to make sure Jack's safe. I don't know you, and I don't trust you."
Selena chuckled softly, shaking her head. "You're quick to mistrust, Thomas. But I respect that—after all, loyalty is a rare quality." Her gaze turned thoughtful, her tone slightly softer. "But as I said, I'm here to watch over Jack too. Maybe we can… cooperate."
"Cooperate?" Thomas scoffed. "Why would I need to cooperate with someone who showed up out of nowhere and started hovering around him?"
Selena studied him for a moment, the amusement fading from her eyes. "Sometimes, people arrive for reasons that go beyond what we see on the surface. My being here… isn't something I chose. It's something I was destined for."
Thomas raised an eyebrow, taken aback by the sudden seriousness in her voice. "Destined? What does that even mean?" He tried to laugh it off, but he felt the hairs on the back of his neck rise.
Selena's gaze held his, calm yet intense. "You wouldn't understand," she said quietly, almost to herself. "Some of us are born into roles we can't escape, no matter how hard we try."
Thomas frowned, unease creeping into his voice. "Sounds like you're hiding something big, Selena. And I'm not a fan of secrets—especially not around Jack."