Olivia woke with a slight headache. Shortly after Desmond’s speech, reporters had also swarmed her, screaming questions about Desmond's parentage. She called for room service, ordering a light breakfast for herself immediately after she got out of bed. Reckoning that she deserved some more rest, she sat on the couch and turned on the TV, ready for some downtime. The news channel showed a ginger reporter, eagerly reporting the events that occurred at the Gilbert Technology anniversary event. “The billionaire tech-mogul, Desmond Wrightwood, took to the stage last night at the Gilbert technology’s anniversary event, to announce to the public that he is the first son of Gerald Gilbert. Additionally, the billionaire mogul made shocking allegations against Priscilla Gilbert, wife of the late Gerald Gilbert and mother of Sebastian Gilbert, the current CEO of the Gilbert empire. The news came after Sebastian Gilbert publicly declared love for his ex-wife, Desmond's rumored girlfriend
The guests' confusion as they watched Desmond ascend the stage was obvious, but they applauded nonetheless. “Thank you.” Desmond spoke as the applause died down. "As you all know, I am Desmond Wrightwood, Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Wrightwood Technologies. First, | would like to thank Sebastian Gilbet for the opportunity to speak freely at this event. He really is a brather from another mother. Quite literally, l must add.” Olivia and Sebastian, who were sitting among the audience, exchanged glances, knowing exactly what Desmond was playing at- “Gilbert Technologies inspires me, truly. In fact, for the first time in my career, I will publicy admit that Gilbert Technologies is the inspiration behind the creation af my company. Gerald Gilbert's vision for the future of technology is nothing short of revolutionary. I am proud to say he that he is more than just an inspiration to me.” Desmond paused, to check if he really had everyone’s undivided attention
Halfway through the event, Sebastian appeared on stage to give a speech. Everyone in the hall paid close attention as he spoke of his father’s dedication to the future of technology, his personal mistakes, and pledged to further develop his grandfather’s vision of Gilbert Technologies. Everyone immediately started applauding, thinking that the powerful speech had come to an end. Several minutes later, the applause died down and Sebastian continued. “…And finally, I would like to thank the woman who made a man out of me. The love of my life; Olivia. You will always be my wife and my best friend. I love you.” The hall was audibly silent as the weight of his words hit everyone present. “Additionally, fifty percent of the net profit generated from this launch will be donated towards cancer research, in honor of my daughter, Laurel Gilbert. I love you, Laurel.” By the time he was done speaking, the hall was ablaze with applause. Jaws dropped and people exchanged co
Olivia watched, with her breath in her throat, as Desmond strides over to their table, with his confident grin perfectly in place. “Desmond!” Miranda Colbert called fondly. “Miranda.” He greeted, kissing her on both cheeks. “You look beautiful.” Olivia sneered. That was an obvious lie. “Desmond Wrightwood.” Jonathan Colbert greeted, shaking Desmond’s hand. “My favorite self-made billionaire. It’s great to see you.” “Always a pleasure, Mr Colbert.” Desmond grinned. He finally turned to Olivia expectantly, just to be immediately gripped in a hug by Laurel. “I have missed you!” Laurel declared as she clung onto Desmond. Olivia smiled as she wondered where the little girl’s shyness had gone. She was aware that all eyes in the room were on their table. Everyone wanted to get a glimpse of what her relationship with Desmond was like and why they were attending her ex-husband’s event. “I have missed you too, sweetheart.” Desmond said, lifting the little girl off her feet
Desmond stared outside the window as the car slowly made it’s way to De Rico hotels, where Billionaires, millionaires and many other important, influential people were to gathering to celebrate Gilbert Technologies' 60th anniversary. If things had happened differently, perhaps he would be at the hotel as a host, not a guest. But it was not to be, because his father's wife, in her jealousy, had ordered his mother's home to be destroyed by fire. He narrowly escaped with his life that evening and knew he had to flee as far as he could. It was only after he arrived in London that he heard news of his mother's suicide. Priscilla was responsible for the tragedy but unfortunately there was no proof. She was finally behind bars for another offence years later, but Desmond was not satisfied. "What are you thinking about?" Rob, who was sitting beside Desmond asked. Desmond had asked Rob to accompany him to the event and being the supportive best friend that he was, Rob agreed.
Olivia settled in the car beside Laurel. They were both dressed exquisitely for the anniversary event. The much anticipated day had finally come. “How do you feel, sweetheart?” Olivia asked Laurel. Laurel was adequately prepared for the event, with enough medication and a nurse who would tend to her medical needs. “I am okay. I want to see daddy.” Laurel said. Olivia adjusted the scarf wrapped around the little girl’s head. “You will see him tonight. In fact, Mr. Desmond is also going to be present tonight. Would you like that?” Laurel grinned. “I will like that very much, mummy.” The little girl rested her head on her mother’s arm. “Thank you, mummy.” “Why are you thanking me, darling?” Olivia asked. “For making me see daddy and Mr. Desmond again.” Laurel answered. Olivia smiled at her daughter. “I cannot take the credit for that, my love.” She spoke softly. “They returned because they wanted to see you. Your daddy and Mr. Desm