The soft hum of the lab machines was the only sound filling Anderson Industries late at night. Ruby Anderson stood with her arms crossed, gazing at the fabric displayed under the light.
"It's strong," Dr. Evans said, tapping the sample. "Lighter than last year's prototype. This could be our key to winning the LV Industries partnership."
Ruby's grey eyes stayed on the fabric. "We're not there yet. We need to make sure it meets every standard. LV Industries doesn't compromise."
Dr. Evans hesitated. "Ruby, it's a high-stakes move. Competing with bigger companies… it's not easy."
"I know." Ruby straightened her back. "But we don't have the luxury of waiting."
She thought of her mother's trust. Of her father's free-spirited absence. It's my responsibility now.
Across the city, towering under moonlight, the LV Industries building gleamed. Inside its top floor office, Leon Valen leaned against the glass wall, gazing at the city lights.
Kai stood behind him, silent, before finally speaking. "We still haven't retrieved it."
Leon's lips curved slightly. "He's good."
"We know he's planning something," Kai added. "You're sure about attending the banquet?"
Leon turned, his golden eyes shining faintly beneath the dim light. "He won't pass up a room full of powerful people. He'll come."
Kai frowned. "And if he doesn't?"
"Then I'll enjoy the dance." Leon chuckled softly.
He picked up the invitation from his desk: Masquerade Banquet for Global Industries.
A night of masks. Of power plays and subtle wars.
Kai watched him. "You know, the world sees you as a legend. A perfect businessman. Charismatic. Impeccable. The face everyone trusts."
Leon's smile turned thoughtful. "Funny, isn't it? What a little charm and politeness can do."
"You've earned it," Kai replied. "But they don't see the other side."
"They're not meant to." Leon's gaze darkened briefly, before softening again. "Sometimes masks protect. Sometimes they hide."
He slipped on the sleek black mask waiting on his desk.
Outside, reporters snapped photos of the man the media called the golden heir, the perfect gentleman, the untouchable Leon Valen.
Kai's voice called softly from the hallway. "Leon. The car's ready."
Leon turned from the mirror. He adjusted the cufflinks on his midnight-black suit, the fabric tailored to perfection over his broad shoulders and lean frame. His golden eyes shimmered beneath his sleek black mask, already settled across his striking features — sharp jawline, high cheekbones, a hint of mischief in his lips that few ever saw behind his polite smiles.
"Let's make this banquet interesting," Leon said quietly, stepping out of the room.
The door clicked shut behind him, locking the paintings inside once more.
Meanwhile, across the city, Ruby Anderson stood before her mirror, adjusting the dark velvet mask over her face. Her dark blue hair cascaded in soft waves down her back, her grey eyes gleaming with quiet resolve beneath the mask.
Her fingers smoothed the fabric of her deep navy gown, simple yet elegant, a subtle contrast to the sparkling dresses she knew would flood the banquet hall.
She took a deep breath, her reflection steady.
"I'm ready to go," Ruby whispered.
To be Continued...