Page 157 of The Sea Witch's Son

“Jaafar.” My mother bows her head in acknowledgement, “I see the invitation made its way overseas.”

Jaafar Malik smiles, showing off a set of veneers that cost just as much as his attire. Rich silk hangs over the man’s tall and wiry frame, the cream-coloured material woven with gold-infused thread that presses perfectly against his body.

The multi-billionaire oil tycoon is an old man, but thanks to the wonders of plastic surgery, he hides his age well. His goatee and thick head of hair remain dyed to perfection whilethe decreased mobility of his joints is hidden by servants who tend to his every whim.

“Given my investments in the town, it would seem my presence was deemed necessary for tonight’s festivities.” He lifts a brow, casting a glance in my direction, “Although I hear someone has been making some poor investments lately.”

My lips curl into a smile, “I am pleased to report the Canadian oil fields are doing exceedingly well. Perhaps you should consider investing in your competition.”

“Do not let your youth fool you into thinking a surge in the market means a return is on its way. Rash decisions are a loss waiting to happen.”

“New opportunities are, at the very least, worth considering.” I tilt my head thoughtfully, “Unless your age fools you into thinking otherwise.”

A snicker echoes behind the long line of servants.

“You must think twice before undermining Marlin Seaborn. He presents a much bigger challenge than you think.”

Gold bangles clink together as Tahira steps up beside her father. Dressed in silk made from the finest tailors, her dress slinks around her body like a flame. Red in both colour and spirit, the sleek material falls off one shoulder while the lace wrapped around her waist offers a teasing glimpse of the ruby glistening at her belly button.

She looks every bit the tycoon’s heiress, and I must admit, she wears the part well.

“Yes. I am starting to see that.” Jaafar strokes his goatee thoughtfully, “I hear you are quite taken with the psychology of fear, Mr. Seaborn.”

My mother pats me on the cheek, “My boy has a knack for making people scream. There has yet to be a mind he cannot break.”

“In that case, I will have to recruit your talent for Tahira’s upcoming nuptials.”

I cast a glance in her direction, “I did not realize a husband has been chosen.”

Jaafar does not give her a chance to respond.

“A suitor has yet to be chosen, however, I have begun to make arrangements for the competition that will be taking place.”

“Competition?”

“A tournament. Twelve suitors will get the opportunity to compete for my daughter’s hand and a portion of the family business.” His lips split into a smile, “It will be held in Wolf Hollow two years from now. I will choose eleven of the suitors and Tahira will choose one.”

“One?” Her head whips to the side, “We agreed I would choose six of the twelve suitors.”

“I changed my mind.” He gives her a dismissive glance, “You will choose one suitor and that is far more gracious than you deserve.”

“Father.” Anger flares in her dark eyes, “That is not fair. You cannot-

“I can do whatever I please because it is my money they will be competing for.”

“Father-

“Enough.” His dark eyes harden, “How many times do I have to tell you women should be seen and not heard?”

Tahira’s jaw tightens, but she does not say a word.

“Attention!”

A bell rings through the grand hall, silencing the conversations around us.

“The Dragon requires your presence in the dining room. Please make your way to the door on the left.”

The crowd starts to part and Jaafar’s servants quickly pack up his things. Tahira trails after her father silently, her eyes trained on the heels of his polished shoes as they disappear into the crowd.

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