Chapter: 1419
Upstairs, Iker glanced at the message on his phone, a smug smile spreading across his face. He straightened his clothes and asked the servant beside him, "Where is my wife?"
"Mrs. Wilson noticed you were busy and said she had something important to handle. She asked that you not wait for her," the servant replied.
Iker cleared his throat. "Let the host know we can begin the banquet."
"Yes, sir."
In the grand and opulent banquet hall, the lights were dimmed, save for a few that cast a brilliant glow on the stage.
Norah and Sean stood side by side, their gazes fixed on the figure in the spotlight.
The host, microphone in hand, stepped onto the stage. “Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. On this joyous occasion, we welcome you all to celebrate the 6@th birthday of the head of the Wilson family. I'm your host for the evening. First, I would Like to extend the deepest gratitude, on behalf of the Wilson family, to each of you for attending. Now, let us invite Mr. Iker Wilson to the stage!"
The crowd erupted in applause.
A spotlight followed Iker as he descended the stairs and made his way to the center of the stage.
Dressed in a simple yet elegant suit, he appeared composed, and his face was ruddy.
“Hacha! They say a joyful heart brings good health. And today, you can see that Mr. Wilson is elated, surrounded by so many here to celebrate his special day!"
The applause continued.
Iker gazed down at the sea of guests, each face turned toward him with admiration. The feeling of standing at the pinnacle of power washed over him, filling him with satisfaction.
Even those who might not care for him still had to show respect in his presence.
His eyes roamed the crowd, and as expected, Norah was nowhere in sight. He cleared his throat and began to speak.
"The Wilson family used to keep a low profile," Iker said, his voice strong and clear, echoing through the room. "But we've always kept a close eye on everything happening in Glophia. Over the past few years, since we've made our comeback, I'm sure many of you have come to know more about us. Your presence here tonight means a lot-it's a favor to me."
Iker spoke with ease, comfortable in the spotlight, his tone full of confidence. He remembered the birthday party he'd hosted last year when he'd been just as thrilled.
But today, there was something that excited him even more.
He stood on stage, talking for over ten minutes, while the crowd below listened attentively-not because they wanted to, but because they feared what ignoring him might mean.
Finally, Iker wrapped up with a grin. “Thank you all for coming to celebrate with me. Please, enjoy yourselves."
The host took over, laughing warmly as he grabbed the microphone. "Ha ha! Mr. Wilson sure knows how to keep things light. Now, let's move on to the next part of the evening-the family blessing."
Hank, Iker's son, pushed a towering twelve-layer cake toward the stage. He had looked around for his mother and sister earlier, but since he couldn't find them, he came to the stage on his own.
Hank stood before Iker, his voice steady. “Happy birthday, Dad. I wish you good health and a long Life."
Iker smiled warmly. "Thank you, Hank."