From Vows to Desire

Chapter 8: The Charity Gala

The Saturday evening arrived with a sense of both anticipation and obligation for Theo. He drove to the Palmer residence as requested by Arthur, and the two made their way to the much-awaited charity event together.

Scene 1: Arrival at the Gala

The venue was already buzzing with excitement as Theo and Arthur stepped out of their car. The red carpet was lined with journalists, flashing cameras, and a crowd of notable attendees, including movie stars, politicians, singers, and some of the top businessmen from both the UK and across the globe. The event, themed around empowering future generations through education and sustainability, aimed to raise scholarship funds and support the construction of schools, libraries, and amenities in underprivileged nations.

Arthur confidently led the way, while Theo, dressed impeccably in a charcoal black suit, tried to steady his nerves as the spotlight seemed to follow his every move. Arthur introduced Theo to various influential people, each one congratulating him on his new role as CEO of Palmer Industries. Theo responded politely, though he often found himself lost in thought amidst the relentless small talk.

In the middle of one such discussion, Arthur's attention shifts to a towering figure across the room - Henri Beaumont. Henri, a French billionaire and the 18th richest person in the world, is an undeniable presence. At 57, he carries an air of youthful vigor, dressed sharply in a beige suit that matches his dynamic personality. Beaumont is a titan in the industry, owning a staggering 35% of the luxury fashion and cosmetics market, with interests in transportation, logistics, restaurants, hotels, and now cutting-edge technology.

Arthur: (leaning toward Theo) "That's Henri Beaumont. We need to say hello."

Arthur gently guides Theo through the crowd, heading straight for Henri. Theo, though exhausted from the endless greetings, perks up when he realizes just how influential Henri is.

Theo (whispering to himself): I need to take care of my body if I want to age like that...

Henri turns toward them with a friendly smile as they approach, shaking hands with Arthur before nodding to Theo.

Henri: (in a deep, charismatic voice) "Arthur, good to see you. And this must be the new CEO of Palmer Industries."

Henri's grip is firm as he shakes Theo's hand, his piercing gaze assessing the younger man.

Theo: (nodding politely) "It's an honor, Mr. Beaumont."

Henri: (grinning) "Please, call me Henri. No need for formality between us."

Arthur and Henri quickly fall into conversation, discussing their business dealings, specifically Henri's investments in Palmer Shipping Infrastructure. Theo, meanwhile, stands awkwardly beside them, trying to follow the conversation but feeling a bit out of place.

Suddenly, Henri excuses himself, disappearing for a moment before returning with a woman by his side.

Henri: (smiling proudly) "Arthur, Theo, I'd like you to meet my daughter, Samyukta 'Sam' Beaumont-Rao."

Theo's eyes widen slightly as he takes in Samyukta's striking beauty. She's almost ethereal, a perfect blend of her French and Indian heritage. Her long, wavy dark hair cascades down her back, and her big, beautiful brown eyes are framed by thick lashes. She has an athletic yet curvy figure, much like her father, and stands at an elegant 5'8". Dressed in a burgundy sheath dress with a daring slit, she exudes confidence and poise.

Henri: "Sam leads Beaumont-Rao Tech, our tech division. She's been working on some revolutionary projects lately. I figured you two would have more to talk about than listening to old men like us."