The final few days have passed. The day has arrived. It's Sunday. The Quinton Consortium Event is here. Soon, everyone attending the event will know whose design will be chosen for the rebuilding of BDT mall and the foundation of the new beach resort for the Quinton Consortium. All who have submitted their designs were automatically welcomed to the event. The tenants of BDT mall will also be in attendance. Early morning sunshine shone through Derek's room window. Derek slowly woke up, more refreshed and focused as usual. It's time to put all his plans into action. But before all that, Derek can put all his plans on hold....at least for the morning. There was reason for him to celebrate. It's his birthday. More importantly, the first birthday he is celebrating with his family. His real family. Derek went about his usual routine, which includes his morning stretch and exercise routine. His shower was longer than usual. He wanted to soak in the moment. After changing into a loo

"I know, I'm supposed to have this call with you guys later in the evening; but I've been informed about a breaking development. That's why I arranged for this call earlier." began Amanda."I'm sure it is important enough to get us involved. Please, fill us in, Ms Amanda." replied Madison."Let me start by updating you about the logistics for tonight's event. When it's time to set off, head straight to the loading bay at the back of the hotel. We have two SUVs on standby with our drivers who will escort you to the venue.""Our drivers will drop you guys off at the loading bay of the Townsville Exhibition Centre, where our security will escort you to a safe room.""Steph, because the Smiths do not know you, I cordially invite you and a plus one to the event. I need you to be our eyes and ears. I will pass you the contact of Desmond Jones, our Head of Security. Introduce yourself to him so he knows who you are." said Amanda."I'll bring my mother along, Ms Amanda. We will need to do a b

Derek had just finished his call with Eric Bradley when Amanda walked back into his office."It's done, honey. I've briefed Chloe on her assignment." reported Amanda."Good work, dear. Only one thing left to do. Give me a minute." replied Derek, before making a quick call to Desmond. "Hi Desmond, I forgot to mention this to you earlier. When Madison and Nick arrive at the loading bay, have our security team escort them to a room behind the staging area. Trust me, they'll want to be there." instructed Derek. "Got it, brother." replied Desmond. Click!*Growl*"Woah....was that your stomach complaining, honey?" Amanda asked jokingly."Yeah...in the midst of all the preparations I forgot about lunch. Are you hungry, love? Let's order in some pizza." asked Derek."Sounds fine, honey. We can't go to war on an empty stomach. I'll make the call." replied Amanda. Three minutes later, the order was placed. After placing the order, Amanda noticed Derek standind behind his desk, staring out o

The evening draws near. It's not too long before Amanda and Derek head out from Quinton Tower to the Townsville Exhibition Center. Similarly, Team MNS, Joanne Lopez and Steph's mother were waiting patiently at Madison's presidential suite at Quinton Hotel. Peter, Lea and Owen were already at the Townsville Exhibition Center, getting ready for the night's festivities. They took the responsibility to welcome and entertain all guests, tenants and participants of the design competition, at the same time looking out for the arrival of the Smith family. Earlier, Derek sent a text to his parents and Owen to notify him when the Smiths arrive. That would be his signal to contact Team MNS and for him and Amanda to set off. While Derek was sitting on his desk waiting for the call or text, Amanda came out of the shower in Derek's office, dressed to the nines. Amanda had her hair bundled up; but her tri-coloured hair is still visible from all angles. She was dressed in a gorgeous strapless, b

The attention on Derek and Amanda was something both of them would previously shy away from. Not this night.As much as the whole of Townsville wants to know who will be working with the Quinton Consortium, Derek made sure the spotlight was on him and Amanda.Both held hands and walked uprightly and confidently intot the ballroom, ignoring all the eyes gawking and staring at them. They were soaking in the moment.At the corner of the ballroom, the Smith family was utterly shocked seeing Derek walk in with a beautiful lady beside him. Madam Louise, in particular, was infuriated. "Charles! Didn't you say that your hired gun took care of that trash loser" Madam Louise whispered angrily at Charle."He did. Everyone saw the picture, including you." Charles replied back."Well then, who is that walking into the ballroom that looks like the trash loser? Clearly your hired gun took you for a joyride." said Dave, Charles's father."Forget about that trash for a minute...isn't that Lizzy? Madi