Alexander Blackwood lifted his gaze. A faint, composed smile touched his lips. "Mr. Sterling."

Jonathan Sterling was impeccably dressed in a tailored suit. He carried himself with the innate grace of a gentleman.

Every gesture was polished. Yet beneath the refined exterior, a sharp, icy glint resided in his eyes. It was a silent warning to anyone who dared to cross a line.

He stepped forward, meeting Alexander's look directly. "It's an honor to have you join our gathering, Mr. Blackwood."

He then gestured gracefully toward the hotel's grand entrance. "Shall we proceed?"

Alexander gave a slight, acknowledging nod. "You're too kind, Mr. Sterling."

Side by side, the two men walked into the venue. Their powerful auras commanded immediate attention.

The other guests, however, were too stunned to simply admire them.

Those who had witnessed the brief exchange stood frozen in disbelief.

"Did I see that correctly? Jonathan Sterling showing such deference?"

"Everyone knows the Sterling family's standing in Crestwood. For Jonathan to personally greet a guest... this man must be immensely important!"

"His presence is overwhelming. But I've never seen him before. Which powerful family does he belong to?"

"I was wondering the same thing..."

"Wait a moment... Doesn't he bear a resemblance to Alexander from the Blackwood family?"

An awkward silence instantly fell over the group.

"Why is everyone so quiet? He really does look like Alexander, doesn't he?"

"Are you dreaming? Alexander Blackwood? Impossible! That good-for-nothing would never be allowed at a Sterling event!"

"Precisely! And remember the most obvious difference—Alexander is confined to a wheelchair. The man who just walked in with Jonathan has full use of his legs. Don't be absurd."

That crucial point settled the matter. The idea was immediately dismissed.

Meanwhile, Jonathan led Alexander into the opulent banquet hall. Dazzling chandeliers illuminated the space. Their light cast a golden glow over the lavish decor.

The event hadn't officially started. Yet the room was already filled with elegantly dressed guests.

As one of Crestwood's most influential families, the Sterlings commanded respect. They had maintained a low profile recently, but their power was undeniable. The sheer number of attendees proved it.

Just then, a vibrant young woman in an exquisite gown approached them.

"Jonathan!" Amelia Sterling, Jonathan's younger sister, beamed as she reached them. She grabbed his arm with playful affection. "Well? Don't I look absolutely breathtaking tonight?"

With a cheeky grin, she lifted the hem of her gown. She spun in a graceful, energetic twirl.

Jonathan's gaze softened as he looked at his sister. His smile held a touch of indulgence. "You look beautiful, Amelia."

Satisfied with the compliment, Amelia turned her attention to the man beside her brother.

Her eyes locked onto him. She found she couldn't look away.

Having lived her whole life in Crestwood, she had met many distinguished men. None had captivated her like this.

It wasn't just his strikingly handsome features. His entire being radiated a natural authority. An air of dominance that demanded admiration.

Amelia studied him openly. A mischievous smile played on her lips. She leaned closer to her brother, whispering with curiosity. "Jonathan, who is this remarkable gentleman?"

Anyone personally escorted by Jonathan had to be extraordinary.

With a knowing smile, Jonathan made the introduction. "Mr. Blackwood, allow me to present my younger sister, Amelia."