Chapter 359
Satisfied, George turned around and left.
Under everyone’s gazes, the emcee asked them if they would never abandon each other, and they finally exchanged rings.
The lights came on again.
Clap, clap, clap! Another round of applause sounded.
“Congratulations!”
“Wishing you a lifetime of happiness together!”
“Here’s to starting a family soon!”
Everyone offered their blessings, but the two holding hands felt quite the opposite. Stephen’s thoughts were with Snow while Rachel only had contempt for Stephen. They should not be holding hands at all.
Guests began stepping forward to present their gifts. The first was a young man, Johnny Evans, one of Stephen’s friends and one of the groomsmen.
“On behalf of the Evans of Metropolis, I present this crystal sculpture entitled ‘Reunion‘.”
One of his attendants brought over a gift box. Once the box was opened, everyone was immediately attracted by the crystal sculpture inside. The crystal sculpture consisted of nine intricately carved crystal lions circling a hollowed–out ball, combining elegance with grandeur.
“This crystal sculpture is carved with the highest quality quartz. The main body is made out of nine lions and a hollowed–out ball. The ball symbolizes harmony and completeness; we wish Stephen and Rachel a lifetime of happiness and union.”
Simon got someone to take the gift and put it aside carefully. Many guests were secretly astonished. Indeed, it was expected of a prominent family from Metropolis. Their gifts
- were never simple. Not only was it valuable, but it also held profound symbolism.
After the first gift was presented, most other gifts seemed outclassed. Whether it was crystal pendants, fine wines, or antiques, they felt insignificant by comparison.
“Johnny is indeed generous. Since he has set the tone, we Millers won’t be outdone either. Bring the gift over!”
Another young man stepped forward, dressed in a suit. He was also one of Stephen’s groomsmen and had an impressive presence. The servant quickly brought the gift box over.
The moment he opened the gift box, everyone leaned in for a look. Inside was a delicate carved decorative plate. On the plate were a man and woman standing on a mountain peak
1/3
+25 BONUS
Chapter 350
overlooking a city. The design was intricate and lifelike.
“This piece is called ‘Blossoms and Full Moon‘ The plate itself is crafted from the finest rosewood and is a collaboration by nine master artisans. The process required applying over a hundred layers of lacquer to the wooden base with meticulous carving to ensure it was flawless.
“The man and woman in the design represent Stephen and Rachel. This scene symbolizes their unity and shared goal of bringing Riveria’s economy past the 20–trillion mark!”
After listening to what he said, the guests could not help but clap. Once again, it was a valuable gift with stunning symbolism!
With that, almost everyone felt their gifts paled in comparison, making them even more reluctant to present their gifts.
Simon laughed out loud. He was pleased with this gift and quickly got someone to put it
away.
Stephen was also grateful to his friends. Even now, they still believed in him and were constantly encouraging him.
However, at this moment, a tall man dressed in a suit suddenly walked in holding a gift box in his hands.
“Here’s a gift from Brandon and Shawn!”
As the words fell, the entire venue fell into silence. Stephen looked visibly stunned. Even the smiles on Simon and George’s faces were frozen.
Everyone looked toward the door. They all knew who these two were. They were the culprits who had caused North Hill City’s fall! Yet, they dared to present a gift to Stephen on his wedding day?
The man noticed everyone staring at him and started to get nervous. He was only doing as instructed, so he was unfamiliar with the people involved.
He opened the gift box, revealing a phone on top. Then, the man turned on the phone and played a recording as he was told beforehand.
Brandon’s voice was the first to come through. “It’s hard to believe that in less than half a year, Stephen is getting married. Thinking back to our days working together, it feels like yesterday. Congratulations, may you have a happy marriage and a blessed future.”
Stephen’s expression darkened. Working together? He had been completely deceived!
Soon, Shawn’s voice rang out, “Stephen, long time no see! How’s North Hill City doing? Are there issues with the mayor you picked? You shouldn’t stumble over the same issues again. After all, you’ve grown up now.”
2/3
Chapter 3so
His words left Stephen feeling utterly humiliat
