"Why Alec did not oust her out of the hotel? It's quite shocking." asked Jonah after he lost the bet to his grandmother who still wore the winning smirk on her face at Jonah's sulking face.
"Because of his weaknesses." replied Kathrine with her usual composure .
"Wait a minute, Alec come here." Jonah called out for his brother who just happened to pass by after the incident at gazebo which William, Jonah and Katherine still doesn't know yet.
"What?" Alec asked curious at the sudden gathering of everyone.
"Bro, Mimi is saying that she knows our weaknesses. Does she have an x-ray machine in her eyes?" Jonah said trying to examine Kathrine's eyes.
"It's not x-ray, it's experience Jo, experience of understanding relationships, knowledge of judging person, ruling pne of the most successful empires in the world." replied William slapping lightly on Jonah's head playfully.
"Frailty within me, impossible." Alec declared too proud of himself but his grandmother proved him wrong with her next words.
Pride wrapped around him like an invisible armor he refused to take off. His chin was always slightly lifted, his gaze steady and unwavering, as if the world itself needed to prove its worth before standing in front of him. Apologies were words he rarely spoke, not because he never felt wrong, but because admitting it felt like surrendering a part of the power he guarded so fiercely.
Even when emotions stirred beneath his calm exterior, he buried them behind that wall of pride. He would rather walk away in silence than bend, rather endure loneliness than show weakness. To many he appeared cold and unapproachable, yet behind that unyielding pride was a man who simply didnāt know how to lower his guard without losing himself.
"Dear every person has qualities, if it is positive then it is our strength other wise they are our weaknesses. Iron has great tensile strength so it does not break easily but it doesn't mean it can float on water too." said Kathrine to make her grandsons understand that no one is perfect.
"But Mimi Alec is a very good swimmer, I have seen him myself." interrupted Jonah but in return he only got slapped by Alec and William both this time for his stupidity, he maybe a genius in manipulating girls but he talks rubbish when it comes to deep conversations.
"Your biggest weakness is that you are too proud of your family name. You judge a person's nature by its family background and not by their work profiles." said Kathrine in a mocking way to Alec who was too stubborn to accept this but something inside him broke just a little maybe.
"Because of this bro has not forced that church girl out until now?" Jonah asked Mimi.
"Which girl?" Alec might know the answer but decided to play dumb.
'Don't play dumb. By the way we are talking about the church girl plus today's caterer." replied William to Alec to which he only groaned. Alec didn't want his family to find out about that incident but they did anyway, nothing can be hidden from his brothers.
Her face flashed in front of his eyes unconsciously, her almonds doe eyes, her charming smile, her dusty skin glowing under sunlight exaggerating her features.
"He didn't fight with that girl because hatred is also a relation and The Alec Casey Galitzine forms the alliances only with his status group. For him rivalry is also done by seeing the family background." continued Kathrine which made Alec mind wander of to that brown eyed girl which still hants him with her presence. Her mere mention was enough to stir something deep in his otherwise dead heart.
"Let's suppose Alec falls in love with a girl who belongs to low status then?" inquired William eyeing Alec who was calm but his eyes were telling a totally different story.
"Like the church girl, admit it they did have some hate chemistry between them." Jonah concluded but was again rewarded with a slap on head but this time it was only from Alec who was getting irritated by this very topic which has stretched too much for his liking.
"Hey this will never happen my whole body is in my control even my heart." Alec proclaimed proudly.
"Kiddo Love is all about loosing control. Peter, your grandfather always said if there is no red signal in love's journey. So beware my child don't test the limits of fate otherwise you won't know what will happen to you and whom you end up loving." Kathrine said remembering his exact words. She want Alec to understand that there are people are beyond the barrier of status, their heart, their caring nature, their way of talking with anyone else should matter not the background they came from.
"Wow Mimi, it's mine turn now. When Dada was so daring, his grandsons too are venture, he was Texas's lady killer we are New York's lovers." Jonah said posing like a great poet and smiling like he said the most romantic poem ever.
"Okay stop it Jo, it was really bad, you just ruined the essence of grandfather's words and the subtle moment. Now leave about me and tell about Will." Alec asked their grandmother curiously giving a knowing look to William.
"I am independent I don't believe in surnames nor in status nor the money they own or empires they have built, I accept the way others are. I believe in truth and it's reality, there is no power greater than truth. Right Mimi." said William with utmost sincerity which made Katherine proud of him.
"But also there is no less weakness than truth. Gold can be turned into hard Jewellery when some impurities are mixed. But dear if we have to make our lives beautiful then we have to add little bit spice, a little lie, little mess, little dreams, a little bit of pain, a bit of suffering in them otherwise it seemed boring, it will be monologous." replied Kathrine a twich of smile played on her wrinkled face.
"But I can't add lie to my life Mimi." said William, his frustration simmered beneath his controlled behavior.
"So your partner will mix it. Whatever faults are in you your opposite will fill the gaps." said Kathrine which made the young hunks thoughtful for a moment.
"But Mimi I am perfect, I have six pack abs, sports cars, mansions, girls and I even have my parents, yeah i know they argue a lot but whatever." said Jonah smiling from ear to ear like he just didn't said the most obvious thing.
"Your biggest weakness is that you don't want to see beyond the luxuries. Why do you run after girls, have flings, what do you even see in them?" asked Kathrine to her youngest grandson.
"Mimi I can't tell you what I see in them." replied Jonah with tongue in his cheek.
"Shameless." Alec, William and Kathrine all muttered at the same time while giving him an impossible look.
"Kids you will never know when your love begins to blossom." Kathrine added but all of them just smiled thinking that it will not be possible..
OUTDOOR KITCHEN
The outdoor kitchen stood beneath a wide wooden pergola, where slender beams allowed streaks of sunlight to filter through and dance across the stone floor. The space blended naturally with the surrounding garden, making it feel open and refreshing rather than confined like an indoor kitchen. A gentle breeze carried the scent of herbs from nearby planters, adding a fresh and earthy atmosphere to the area.
At the center of the setup was a sturdy countertop made of polished granite, its smooth surface reflecting the soft glow of hanging lantern lights. Built into the counter were modern cooking appliancesāan elegant stainless-steel grill, a small gas stove, and a compact sink. Wooden cabinets beneath the counter neatly stored cooking tools, utensils, and spices, making everything easily accessible while maintaining a tidy appearance.
A large wooden dining table stood a few steps away, surrounded by comfortable chairs with woven cushions. The table was often decorated with simple touchesāa bowl of fresh fruits, a vase of wildflowers, or glowing candles in the evening. It created the perfect place for friends and family to gather, sharing meals and laughter under the open sky.
Around the kitchen, potted plants and climbing vines softened the structure, blending it beautifully with nature. String lights were draped along the pergola beams, casting a warm golden glow once night fell. The gentle crackle of the grill, the aroma of freshly cooked food, and the quiet rustle of leaves made the space feel lively yet peaceful.
Overall, the outdoor kitchen was more than just a place to cookāit was a cozy gathering spot where nature, food, and conversation came together, turning ordinary meals into memorable experiences beneath the open sky.
"Hmm what a mouthwatering smell." Sierra said when she entered the cooking area after receiving the news that her best friend was the caterer for today's event.
"Oh my milkshakes, Sierra what are you doing here? Anyways I was getting bored to death, now you are here thank god. By the way these big people's big functions are so boring. I thought Dwayne Johnson or Chris Evans will be here but not even Johnny Depp is here. I am damm sure they lie about meeting celebs. BTW how do you know these deceivers?" asked Carolyn all in one breath, her voice didn't betrya the mix of excitement and happiness she was experiencing within her.
"This liar's family is also mine and this big function is also organised by my brother, Alec Galitzine on our late grandfather's birthday." said Sierra calmly dropped the news of her being the sister of the three most eligible and most talked bachelors in the world almost giving Carolyn a mini cardiac arrest.
"Ohhhh.... WHAT" shouted Carolyn and almost died of panic attack, she stood still, too still for a second digesting the news.
"Yup." Sierra said amused by her reaction.
"That means that arrogant prick was....I mean that is your brother." asked Carolyn still a little fazed.
"Yups but come on he is not that bad, he just doesn't much talkative and easy to initiate conversation." Sierra tried to convince Carolyn but she was still in a denial.
"Cici who is she?" asked Kathrine when she looked Sierra talking to someone, though the girl Carolynwas a stranger but she doesn't seem like someone to harm. Kathrinecame closer to the young ladies and got a better look, she was thrilled to know that the stranger was the same girl who gave Alec high blood pressure in just a matter of seconds.
"Mimi she is Carolyn and Caro this is my Mimi, Mrs. Kathrine Eva Galitzine, my grandmother." Sierra introduced the two ladies to each other.
"Nice to meet you Carolyn." Kathrine said formally but inside she was jumping to finally meet the girl to tame his first grandchild, the most difficult person to tame. She is proud of Alec's success but his anger issue is a major issue for the family.
"Hi I am Carolyn Harper Kurt, the pleasure is all mine to meet the strongest yet kindest lady." replied Carolyn after she overcame her nervousness.
"I am sorry Sierra, you never told me that you are the only sister of the three hot Galitzine brothers well make that two, because the eldest one is total a boastfulll...I mean he is too arrogant." said Carolyn just correcting herself on time but Katherine understood and had a smile plastered on her face to conceal her excitement.
"Oh Cici why didn't you tell her about us?" asked Kathrine the same thing.
"Mimi she would have never became my friend and mostly she would have never taken this job. She has a lot of self respect. You know Mimi she is the only one who became my real friend without knowing my status." said Sierra proud to be Carolyn's friend.
"Wow Carolyn you have received great manners from your parents." said Kathrine impressed but Carolyn doesn't have her parents but she didn't told that to anyone as people don't care.
"Yeah, Sierra is very lucky to have such an amazing and loving family." commented Carolyn only if she knew that this family is a total mess.
"Cici, some clothes for you have arrived sent by your mother for today's function, please which one will you wear. If there are changes it will be on time." Kathrine's asked and both of them left from their after bidding Carolyn their goodbyes. Carolyn admired the view of how caring her best friends grandmother is.
She stood quietly at the edge of the kitchen counter not much people were there, her gaze drifting toward a small family seated on a nearby bench in the open area. A little boy sat between his parents, his tiny hands wrapped around theirs as they laughed softly at something he said. His mother brushed the hair away from his forehead with gentle affection while his father pulled him into a warm embrace. The simple tenderness of the moment felt painfully vivid to her, like a scene from a life she had only ever imagined.
A faint ache tightened in her chest as she watched them. She tried to look away, yet her eyes kept returning to them, drawn by something she could neither deny nor escape. Somewhere deep inside, a quiet jealousy stirredāsharp and unfamiliar. Not the kind that wished harm upon others, but the kind born from an empty space in her own heart. She wondered what it must feel like to have someone waiting for you, someone who remembers the smallest details about you simply because they love you.
Memories she never truly had began to form in her mindādreamlike images of parents whose faces she had never seen. Sometimes she imagined a mother humming softly while braiding her hair, or a father lifting her high into the air while she laughed freely. But those were only fragments her lonely heart had created to fill the silence of growing up alone.
She pressed her lips together, forcing the swelling emotions back behind the calm mask she had learned to wear. The laughter of the child echoed faintly in the air, light and carefree, and for a brief moment she envied that innocenceāthe certainty that someone in this world belonged to him.
With a quiet breath, she turned away, slipping her hands into the pockets of her coat. The warmth she had witnessed lingered behind her like a distant light, beautiful yet unreachable. And though she would never admit it aloud, a small part of her heart still longedājust onceāto know what it felt like to be loved that way.
"Will she is one tough girl and a great window breaker too. We should at least talk to her once. What's say?" asked Jonah. They both came to know that Carolyn is here in outdoor kitchen by Kathrine and it was Jonah's idea to meet her once, so they stood at a distance gazing at her every moves. William was too excited to meet the girl, so they are here following their grandmother's advice. They both came and stood near her breaking Carolyn's chain of memories.
"BTW you are very brave." commented Jonah to Carolyn who was confused to why she was praised for cooking on high flamed grill.
"It's no big deal. You can also do it." Carolyn said carefully putting the sticky grilled chicken aside. They were thinking about different things. The brothers about the car scene while Carolyn thought that they were praising her cooking skills.
"No, I can't even think about doing so." replied Jonah, an unknown fear gripped his heart just thinking about facing his brother Alec's satan .
"How did you do it?" asked William curiously.
"You will also get habitual. After all it's my profession.' replied Carolyn while continue to grill the chicken
"Profession??" said both brothers astonished.
"No one stops you from doing it?" asked Jonah bewildered.
"Why will anyone stop me? Instead they praise me." said Caro proudly. While the brothers stared at her shocked at her blunt reply. Jonah saw Alec nearby who was talking to some foreign delicates.
"Don't you fear anyone?" William asked perplexed.
"Why fear when I have talent?" Carolyn answered confused by the conversation.
"Do you do it alone?" Jonah asked again.
"You both are too funny. Why will I need a PA for it?" Carolyn commented.
"Seriously!!!" William and Jonah said at the same time.
"You should sometimes taste from my hand." Carolyn said signaling towards her hand.
"No it's okay, Will let's go. Big bro will be searching for us." Jonah said hurriedly taking William along leaving Carolyn confused.
"Yes we also have to get ready too." William also said following Jonah.
INAUGURATION PARTY BEGINS
AT EVENING
The inauguration party was nothing short of grandāa perfect blend of celebration, ambition, and new beginnings. The venue shimmered under warm golden lights, with elegant decorations that reflected the brandās identity. A large ribbon stretched across the entrance of the newly opened building, surrounded by fresh flowers and subtle fragrances that filled the air. Guests in sophisticated attire gathered in small groups, their voices blending into a cheerful murmur as anticipation hung in the atmosphere.
At the center of the venue stood the proud founder, greeting guests with a confident smile. Business associates, family members, and influential personalities arrived one after another, congratulating the team and sharing in the excitement of the milestone. Cameras flashed as the family made its iconic entrance, capturing the significance of the dayāthe official beginning of a dream that had taken years of dedication and hard work to become reality.
When the three brothers arrived after a long wait from the fellow partners, applause echoed through the space, followed by a round of celebratory music. Glasses of sparkling drinks were raised in a toast to prosperity, while waiters moved gracefully through the crowd carrying trays of delicious appetizers. Laughter and conversation filled every corner as people networked, exchanged ideas, and admired the beautifully designed workspace.
The evening slowly transformed into a lively celebration. Soft music played in the background while guests explored the office, appreciating its modern interiors and innovative design. For the owner, however, the night was more than just a partyāit was the proud beginning of a new chapter, a symbol of courage, perseverance, and the promise of success ahead.
The party finally started and the guests were given their places. The one heir who will be proceed the ribbon cutting ceremony will became the next CEO of The Galitzine Empire followed by the speech. All of the people were impatient and curious to know about the new heir who will continue the legacy.
Carina wanted Alec to enter first while Alvaro was sure that William will be the next CEO. But their dreams were crushed when the three brothers entered the hall on the same time looking devilishly handsome making the girl population go crazy
While on the other hand....
"Sierra Galitzine, whom do you think will be the next CEO?" the media asked Sierra who was just walking across the hall towards the main podium. She was not across the hall towards the main podium. She was not used to this much attention and always stand behind the camera to avoid them because of her stammering disability.
"Please answer." Asked another one from the crowd.
"Sierra ma'am who is the best deserving of them?" They continued with their questions.
"Sierra answer us." All of them said at same time while Sierra was getting anxious.
"Sierra!!!" Caro shouted as soon as she saw her surrounded by media, Carolyn knew her best friend was afraid of all the attention.
While Carina came rushing towards Alec and said to do ribbon cutting ceremony while Alvaro pushed William forwards whispering harshly in William's ear.
"It's just ribbon cutting ceremony anyone of them can do it. Why does the media seems so desperate?" Carolyn said with a distastefulness in her voice.
"It's because we are Galitzine's and we are a live show to them. Who so ever does the ribbon cutting will lead grandfather's name ahead. He will be the sole head of all. My brothers, they all love each other and today one of them will be on high post, it will break them." Sierra said while sobbing at the thought of her brothers hating each other.
"No shh nothing like that will happen. Please don't cry mi amor'" Carolyn said while hugging and consoling her BFF.
"Cici, what happened?" Kathrine asked rushing towards them.
"Mrs. Galitzine nothing serious, now she is fine." Carolyn said to a very worried Kathrine.
"Cici come let's go to your suite." Kathrine said to Sierra and taking her along.
"It's okay Mrs. Galitzine, your presence here matters more, I will take her." Carolyn politely offered to take Sierra.
"Thank you child and call me Mimi from now." Kathrine said.
"Okay Mi.....mimi." Carolyn said but inside felt a warmth when she talks to Kathrine.
The hall slowly fell silent as the Alec stepped onto the stage, his presence alone enough to command attention. Dressed in a perfectly tailored suit, he stood tall behind the podium, his posture straight and confident. The soft glow of the lights highlighted his sharp features while his intense gaze swept across the room, acknowledging every guest gathered for the occasion. For a brief moment, he paused, letting the quiet anticipation build before he finally began to speak.
Mr Alec Casey Galitzine stepped on the stage, applauds echoed through the room, some looking at him in admired thinking of him as their role model, some seemed jealous of his money and power, some just want Alec in their feet begging, some look forward to do business with them. His uncle, Alvaro stood at a corner with a whiskey glass clutched tightly in his hand almost felt painful, but this pain was nothing to what he felt inside, a sense of hatred and jealousy shimmered deep within his cold heart.
"Good evening everyone. It is truly an honor and a pleasure to welcome all of you to this very special occasion. On behalf of our entire team, I extend my heartfelt gratitude for joining us today to celebrate the inauguration of our new venture. Your presence means a lot to us and makes this moment even more memorable. I would like to take a moment to express my sincere appreciation to our respected guests, our business partners, mentors, friends, and family members who have supported us throughout this journey.
Your guidance, encouragement, and trust have played a crucial role in making this dream a reality. This venture began as a simple idea fueled by passion and determination by my late respected father. Like every new journey, it came with its share of challenges, sleepless nights, and endless planning. But with perseverance, teamwork, and the unwavering belief that we could create something meaningful, that small idea has finally grown into the business we proudly inaugurate today.Our goal is not just to build a successful company but to create a place that delivers quality, innovation, and trust to our customers.
We believe in building long-term relationships and contributing positively to our community while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and service. Once again, thank you all for being here and for sharing this milestone with us. Your presence motivates us to work harder and strive for excellence. We look forward to your continued support as we begin this exciting journey.
Please join us in celebrating this new beginning, and we hope you enjoy the evening. Thank you once again for being part of this special day. Your presence truly means the world to us. Please join us in celebrating this new beginning and enjoy the evening.ā Alec continued as he took the microphone from podium, his form exhibiting a sense of confidence
When his voice filled the room, it was deep, steady, and powerfulācarrying an authority that made everyone listen carefully. Each word rolled out with calm confidence, reflecting the determination and ambition that had brought him to this moment. As he spoke about the journey behind the business, his tone carried pride but also humility, recognizing the struggles, sacrifices, and support that had shaped the path to success.
Occasionally, his eyes softened as he mentioned the people who stood by himāfamily, partners, and loyal team members who believed in his vision even when the road was uncertain. Yet beneath that brief warmth, his natural commanding aura remained intact. There was something magnetic about the way he spoke, a quiet power that made people trust his leadership and believe in the future he described.
By the time he reached the end of his speech, the room was completely captivated. His final words carried both promise and determination, echoing through the hall like a declaration of the empire he intended to build. As he stepped away from the podium, applause erupted around himābut he simply gave a small, confident nod, the faintest hint of a smile touching his lips, as if he already knew that this was only the beginning of something far greater.
After some tine in the main hall, all were waiting for the next CEO to cut the ribbon of the new office. But got shocked when the three brothers cut the ribbon simultaneously and taking blessings from Kathrine who was happy that her grandsons will always stick together.
"They love each other so deeply, they blend with each other like water merges with milk, totally inseparable Pease let them stick like that always, God." Kathrine taunts Alvaro and Carina smiling smugly to them.
Suddenly a man came from the entrance with a container from in his hand and burned himself by spilling kerosene all over himself, the Galitzine brothers rushed towards him to save him but couldn't save him and he died on the spot with serious 4 degree burns on his body. Alec also burned his left hand badly while extinguishing fire on the unknown person's body.
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Hello people I am back with a new update. So how was the chapter, I hope you like it, thanks for reading my work and don't forget to vote and comment. Hope you like it, tell me your thoughts if any changes are required... Read vote comment and share :) Don't forget to follow me for future updates. Share the book as much as you can.
How do you deal with loneliness?
Did you like Kathrine's nature?
How do you expect your partner to be?
What do you guys do to hide your pain from others?
Who was person who burned himself?
Share your weakness too. And what do you do to remove them?
I will be eager for your comments.
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