The Tycoon's Odyssey

After saying those words, Evan inclined his head in respect, feeling both challenged and relieved. "I wouldn't expect anything less. Suri's happiness means everything to me."

Suri, who had been quietly watching the exchange, stepped forward and placed a reassuring hand on Evan's arm. "Mother, you can trust Evan. He has proven himself time and again. Besides, he has people—and now even his parents—to keep him on track."

Amelia's gaze flicked to Suri, her expression softening with a hint of fondness beneath the fierceness. "Then, I'll reserve judgment… for now." She glanced back at Evan, her eyes flickering with amusement. "But I'll be watching closely. Don't let me down."

Evan chuckled, managing to stay composed. "Wouldn't dream of it, Aunt Amelia." He glanced at Suri, who gave him a reassuring smile, making him feel just a little less like he was under a microscope.

As Amelia leaned back in her seat, her posture relaxed slightly, a mix of quiet approval and subtle challenge in her expression. "Good. Now, tell me more about what you do, Evan. I've heard stories from Suri, but I'd like to hear it in your own words."

Evan took a deep breath, his mind already piecing together how he had to make his career sound both impressive and respectable. He wanted to strike the right balance—showing enough ambition to impress Amelia, without coming across as arrogant.

"Well, Aunt Amelia," he began, his tone even and confident, "I'm the head of a tech company called Next Gen Innovations. We primarily focus on cybersecurity and developing advanced technologies that support sustainable growth. Recently, we've made significant breakthroughs in artificial intelligence and data encryption, which allow us to provide secure systems that are nearly impenetrable. It's challenging work, but incredibly rewarding."

Amelia tilted her head, her eyes narrowing thoughtfully as she absorbed his words. "Impressive. And I assume this field comes with its fair share of risks?" She glanced briefly at Suri before returning her gaze back toward Evan. "The world of tech can be… ruthless."

Evan met her gaze steadily, understanding the weight behind her question. "Yes, it certainly can be. But I've always believed that with the right team, you can turn risks into opportunities. I am fortunate to have some exceptional people working alongside me, including Suri. In fact, she has helped us navigate some critical moments thanks to her insights and instincts."

Suri smiled appreciatively, but Amelia's expression remained unreadable. "So, Suri is actively involved in your work?" Amelia inquired, her tone light, though her eyes held a hint of scrutiny. "That must mean you trust her a great deal."

"Absolutely," Evan replied without hesitation, glancing at Suri. "I trust Suri more than anyone. Her dedication, intelligence, and natural ability to see things from angles I might miss have made her invaluable to Next Gen Innovations. Honestly, she has saved me from more than one misstep." He chuckled, hoping honesty would earn him a few points.

Amelia's expression softened just a touch, though caution still lingered in her eyes. "Suri has always had a sharp mind and a steady hand. She's headstrong, but in this world, that's a strength—but it comes at a cost—leaving one tired and weary. Just be mindful of the toll it can take."

Evan nodded, taking her words seriously. "I understand, Aunt Amelia. Suri's well-being is my priority. I try to keep things balanced so that she doesn't have to bear too much pressure. But she has made it clear she wants to be involved, and I respect that. We're partners in every sense of the word."

Amelia gave a small nod of approval, her gaze warming a bit. "It's refreshing to hear a man speak so highly of his partner, especially in this field. So many are focused only on personal gain."

Evan caught the approving glimmer in her eyes, and a sense of relief washed over him. "I believe that success is best when shared, especially with those you care about. Suri deserves every bit of the credit."

A low chuckle escaped Amelia. "Well, you certainly know how to say the right things. I suppose I can see why Suri speaks so highly of you." She glanced at her daughter, a gentle smile breaking through her stern facade. "I only want the best for you, Suri. You know that."

Suri stepped closer to her mother, a hint of emotion crossing her face. "I know, Mother. And Evan has proven himself to me more than once."

But before Amelia could say anything further, a voice crackled through Evan's communicator.

[Sir, there is something urgent.]

"Uhh!" Both Amelia and Suri paused, seeing Evan frown.

"Can I have a moment?"
Continue your journey at M-V-L

"Sure!" Amelia nodded, her curiosity evident.

Evan was about to say something when a ring alerted him. He paused and asked why.

[Sir, there is an urgent meeting request from the government agents, led by Vishal.]

Evan's expression darkened for a moment before he sighed.

"The moment we have been waiting for has finally come."

[Yes, sir. It seems we can't afford to show any weakness.]

_____

Surrounded by a line of vehicles filled with specially trained commando-level soldiers and a few superhumans to accompany him as reinforcements, Vishal's team made his way to Evan's residence.

The meeting was announced, a deliberate attempt to catch Evan off guard without giving him much time to make any preparations.

Resting his hand on the car window, Vishal's mind drifted into thoughts knowing the severity of the situation they were going to face.

This seemingly small meeting might very well serve to become the very reason behind a national crisis if not handled well. With such a heavy burden placed on his shoulders, it was natural for him to feel tense.

"Sir, we've reached the destination," one of the bodyguards announced.

But lost deep in his thought, it took him a moment to come back to his senses.

While Vishal prepared himself to step out of the car, he couldn't shake his grandfather's words that were echoing in his mind.