The Tycoon's Odyssey

December 31st

The quiet of Evan's estate was abruptly shattered as a group of people burst through the front doors.

The security guards, who usually stayed vigilant, didn't try to stop them.

Celina, leading the group, had the necessary access codes and a determined expression that left no room for argument. As she confidently strode into the house, her entourage followed closely behind.

The group of thieves started to prepare their tools.

Evan, absorbed in work in his study, was startled by the commotion.

[Sir, someone wants to greet you,] Aurora announced.

"Who?" Evan asked.

[Food!]

"Huh!" Evan's confusion was clear, nevertheless he walked out before looking at the clock and decided to look at what it actually was since it was too early for dinner.

His heart felt uneasy as he noticed a shadow passing through the gap under the door.

Frowning, he opened his door to find Sam and Ryan, flanked by Celina and a few others, making their way toward him. The surprise on Evan's face was quickly replaced by irritation.

"What's going on?" Evan demanded, crossing his arms.

"Surprise!" Sam exclaimed with a mischievous grin. "We're here to celebrate the New Year with you."

"Aren't you happy?" Ryan asked, his smile gloating.

"Happy…My ass…Did I ask you to come here?" Evan snorted, clearly displeased by the sudden intervention, however, before he could say more, Sam chuckled, "Don't act like a tsundere now. I know you're happy, so stop pretending."

Evan's eyes narrowed. "I wasn't expecting guests. And certainly not a party."

But before he could react further, Sam and Ryan, wearing devilish grins, stepped forward. "Oh, come on, Evan. You've been working non-stop. We're here to make sure that you have some fun."

In a move that left Evan with no room to argue, Sam and Ryan gently but firmly grabbed him by the arms and began pulling him out of the study. Evan tried to resist, but their determination overwhelmed his reluctance.

Celina, with her usual air of authority, followed closely behind. "Evan, you've been holed up in here for too long. It's time for you to enjoy yourself a bit."

"Let's celebrate the new year."

Evan was dragged through the grand hallways of his mansion, his initial irritation giving way to resignation.

As they neared the living room, he noticed that the preparations were in full swing. The once-quiet house was now alive with activity. Decorations were being hung, tables were set with an array of gourmet dishes, and music played softly in the background.

Maria was directing the staff with her usual efficiency, ensuring everything was in place while Aria was busy setting up the food and drinks, while the little girl, Elina, stood near the centre of the room with a pout, clearly unhappy about something.

Evan's demeanor softened as he took in sight. The room was decorated with festive lights and ornaments, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. It was clear that they had put a lot of effort into the preparations.

"What's all this?" Evan asked his tone now more curious than annoyed.

"It's a New Year's Eve party, Evan," Celina said with a grin. "We wanted to make sure you had a proper celebration."

Evan's eyes fell on Elina, who was still pouting with her arms crossed. He realized that her unhappiness was likely due to the lack of presents. With a sigh, he headed back to his room to fetch the gifts he had bought for her.

When Evan returned with a large bag full of brightly wrapped presents, Elina's eyes widened with delight as she bounded over to him, her pout replaced with a wide grin.

"Wow, is that for me?" Elina's excitement was palpable.

Evan nodded, handing her the bag. "It's all for you."

Elina eagerly dug into the bag, her joy evident as she pulled out one gift after the other. She had completely forgotten about everyone else in her excitement and her focus was now entirely on the treasures before her.

Celina gently tapped Elina on the head, a reminder of manners. "Hey, don't forget to thank Evan."

Elina looked up at Evan with a shy smile, her excitement tempered by gratitude. "Thank you, Brother. These are amazing!"

She then hugged him, her tiny arms wrapping around him with enthusiasm. "For the gifts, I'll let you give me another hug."

Evan rolled his eyes and couldn't help smiling. "Alright, alright."

Seeing the scene, Maria grumbled with a pout, "Where's my reward?"

"I have to work day and night yet I get nothing. This is biased…I protest…"

Everyone ignored Maria's protest, leaving her to grumble as she searched for Sam for help but that guy changed, kept looking at Ryan, and asked.

"Today, the weather isn't very nice, is it?"

Ryan looked confused and asked, "Why are you suddenly talking about the weather right now?"

"Shut up and just pretend like we are talking."

Meanwhile, after giving another hug, Elina spoke, "I wish Sister Suri was here with us."

"You met her?" Evan asked, his brows raised high.

"Of course, Sister gave me her autograph and even said I am like her smaller sister. We will soon be like family.'

Evan's brows furrowed as question marks appeared on his face.

'When did this happen and why don't I know about it.'

Shrugging it off, he decided to return to the room and bring out more things.

Evan had also brought gifts for everyone from USL and Europe. It was just that the meeting with the Home Minister had stressed him out, so he had forgotten about it.

The atmosphere became jovial and Evan felt a bit emotional looking at the relations he had gained during his bad period.

Despite trying to avoid them, Evan just couldn't shake off the feeling of accomplishment.

Men were sociable animals, and no one liked to stay alone unless the situation demanded it.

Laughter and chatter filled the space as guests began to relax and enjoy themselves. The party soon took on a life of its own, with everyone celebrating the upcoming New Year in high spirits.

They gathered around, enjoying a sumptuous dinner. The table was laden with an array of gourmet dishes: roasted lamb, delicate seafood, an assortment of salads, and a variety of desserts. Chilled soft drinks and refreshments were placed in elegant glasses around the table.

Aria and Celina moved around, taking charge of serving plates and ensuring everyone had everything they needed.

Maria, always the centre of attention, was indulging heartily. She piled her plate high and dug in with gusto.

"Maria, slow down there," Sam spoke anxiously, watching her devour everything.

"If you keep eating like that, you'll end up getting fat."

Maria paused mid-bite, her expression darkening and retorted, "Shut up," clearly annoyed.

Sam's grin widened, clearly enjoying the banter. "Seriously, if you keep this up, you'll end up with a chubby pot belly."

Maria's eyes narrowed, and she promptly kicked Sam's foot and screamed.

"Shut up! You will be the one who is going to be fat…No, your entire generation of children is going to be fat."

Sam choked, and was about to retort saying—'won't my children be also yours,' but he kept quiet sensing the thick murderous intent from Maria.

With the atmosphere lightened by the playful exchange, everyone resumed their meal. The countdown to the New Year began, and the room was filled with a chorus of voices singing along to the lively music.

"10… 9… 8… 7… 6… 5…"

The countdown was a joyous cacophony, with everyone joining in, raising their glasses and singing with enthusiasm. The excitement was palpable—the New Year was just moments away.

BANG!

However, just as they were about to shout "4," a sudden BANG shattered the festive mood. The loud sound of gunfire cut through the celebration, freezing everyone in shock. The music stopped abruptly, replaced by the sound of panicked voices.

Evan and Ryan exchanged alarmed glances.

"What the hell was that?" Maria muttered while Elina wondered if this was a new kind of firecracker.

"Gunfire," Ryan said, his voice tense. "We need to get everyone to safety."

Evan quickly took charge. "Everyone, head to the basement now and stay there until further notice!"

As the guests scrambled to the basement, Evan turned to Aurora, who was already at his side. "Aurora, what's happening out here."

Aurora's face was serious.

[I'm not sure yet, but it seems we have an intruder. They are not in camera range and guards' phones are in pockets so I can't see anything.]

"Keep going and hide in my room," Evan instructed others before turning to Ryan. "Ryan, let's go."

Ryan nodded, and the two rushed out, their expressions grim.

The night had taken a dangerous turn, and Evan was determined to confront the threat and protect his home and guests.