John

That night, the Grand Royal Hotel’s ballroom was impeccable. A red carpet covered the entire lobby, where security guards, receptionists, and staff bustled about to organize the guests’ reception.

John arrived punctually at eight o’clock, wearing an impeccable navy blue suit, a dark gray tie, and his hair neatly combed. His expression was cold and stern. He walked through the hall greeting familiar businessmen, local politicians, and international investors. In his mind, the dinner was jus