The Rise of the Disparaged Son-in-law

Chapter One

"Liam! Over here, now!"

Master Martin had been pondering in his study about how to revive his falling family's business. The family was struggling in the business market.

"Yes, Master." Liam abandoned his cleaning duties and hurried to his adopted father's study.

Master Martin scolded, "What took you so long? Do you want to die? You're such a useless boy."

Liam trembled and stammered, "Sorry, Master, I came as soon as you called."

"Shut up, worthless boy. Now, Listen carefully. Robert Thompson’s daughter, Miss Olivia, is having her 28th birthday party tonight. She's the Thompson family's heiress. You'll represent our family, impress her, and make her fall for you. I've heard rumors she's looking for a husband," Master Martin declared.

Liam placed his hands on his back and bowed slightly. "Yes, Master," he responded nervously.

Master Martin dismissed him with a wave, but as Liam was about to leave, his voice halted him.

"You've been nothing but useless. Don't disgrace our family name any further. Show me you can be of use," Master Martin warned.

"Yes, Master," Liam replied, feeling anxious. He hadn't been invited to a birthday party before.

Leaving Master Martin’s study, Liam was hurt by the harsh words. Wilson’s family despised him and made his life difficult because he couldn't be ruthless and heartless like they wanted.

Liam was determined to prove himself to Master Martin, he vowed to do his best.

Liam went through his closet, searching for a suitable outfit for the party, but nothing seemed appropriate, all his clothes were old and not fit for occasions.

As he was contemplating what to wear, he heard footsteps approaching the basement where he slept. Nora, the family's daughter, entered the room.

"Did Papa tell you that you'll represent our family at Thompson’s mansion tonight?" Nora inquired, looking around with a smug on her face.

"Yes, Miss Nora, Master spoke to me," Liam replied with his head bowed.

Nora frowned, "What are you doing here? It's almost time. Get dressed quickly," she ordered.

Liam moved but then stopped, acting confused. "Miss, I don't have anything suitable to wear," he confessed.

"You're useless. You've never done anything worthwhile, which is why you don't have decent clothes," Nora remarked, pausing for a moment before continuing, "Follow me."

"Thank you, Miss."

Liam followed Nora eagerly as they made their way to an old storage room in the house. He thought he might find a well-fitted suit to wear, but to his surprise, Nora handed him an old suit that had belonged to her grandfather.

"Now, take this. It was my grandfather's favorite suit before he passed away. Go and change," Nora instructed.

Liam was disappointed by what he saw. He had hoped for a decent suit, but he held an old, oversized, and worn-out one. Nevertheless, he had to attend the party and make his family proud, so he accepted it with a grateful nod.

Liam reached his room and quickly got ready for the occasion. He then headed to his father's study to inform him that he was prepared to go.

He gently knocked on the door, and a voice from the other side yelled, "Don't stand there knocking like a fool; come in."

Liam pushed the door open and entered with a slight bow. "Master Martin, I'm ready for the party. Is there anything you'd like me to do?"

His father examined him and asked, "Who gave you my father's favorite suit?"

With fear, Liam stammered, "Miss Nora gave it to me."

"Hmm... You don't deserve it, but for the sake of the Thompson family, you can go on with it. Take this, and present it to Miss Olivia as a birthday gift from the Wilson family. The driver will be waiting for you."

Liam took the wrapped box from his father. "Thank you, Master. I'd like to be on my way now," he said, waiting for his father's permission to leave.

His father waved his hand, signaling him to go. Liam exited his father's study and headed to the garage, where the driver was already waiting for him.

It was his first time stepping into his father's new Range Rover. Once inside, the driver swiftly started the car, and they zoomed off to the party venue.

Back at the Thompson mansion, the house was lit up with bright lights, and the smell of delicious food filled the air. Guests had arrived, and the party was in full swing, with people dancing and engaging in lively conversations.

The room was crowded with important personalities, some there for business reasons, wanting to get closer to the Thompson family.

As Liam stepped into the grand hall, he gaped at the beautifully decorated space, the faces of admired celebrities, and the powerful businessmen who had made their mark in the business world.

It was his first time at such an important gathering, and he felt privileged to be among such distinguished guests.

Liam found an empty seat at the far end of the hall. Once seated, Mr. Robert Thompson took the stage, ringing a bell gently to grab everyone's attention.

With a glass of wine in hand and a cheerful smile, he began, "Ladies and gentlemen, we've gathered to celebrate my daughter's birthday. Miss Olivia Thompson, the heiress of the Thompson dynasty, Olivia has been a hardworking lady, contributing to building our company. The Thompson Company has risen to the top ten in the business world. Today, I celebrate your Happy birthday, my daughter. Now, it's time for your gifts!" Mr. Robert said, hugging Olivia.

The crowd applauded. Family, friends, and business partners came forward, presenting luxurious gifts.

"Miss Olivia, I heard you love the Brushed Cotton Gheri Jacket. It took me time to know your choices. This gift cost a fortune."

"Miss Olivia, a hardworking businesswoman like you deserves the best. I present these Skin Care Products. They'll keep your skin smooth and healthy while you work hard."

"The heiress to the Thompson dynasty, you're beautiful. I present this diamond necklace to you. It's the most expensive necklace in the world, one of its kind."

Olivia joyfully accepted the expensive gifts, dazzled by their extravagance.

Meanwhile, Liam remained in his seat, contemplating the gift his father had given him. He felt intimidated by the expensive gifts Miss Olivia had received. Oblivious of the content and worth of the box, all he knew was that his father was struggling financially and couldn't afford lavish gifts like the ones Olivia received.

Regardless, a gift was a gift, and it was from his father, not him. Liam shrugged his shoulders and stood up. "Miss Olivia, I have a gift. The crowd turned to look as he walked down the hall to the stage.

Upon reaching the stage, he presented the gift to Miss Olivia. "Happy birthday, Miss Olivia. This is a gift from the Wilson family. I don't know its value or what's inside, but I'm sure it's a good one. Enjoy."

Surprised by his boldness, Olivia glanced at her father and accepted the gift with a hearty laugh.

"Thank you. Send my thanks to the Wilson family," Miss Olivia said. Mr. Thompson then declared, "Now, let the music begin!"

As the people danced and enjoyed their drinks, Mr. Thompson leaned towards Olivia, whispering and pointing at Liam, who was attempting to socialize but was not getting a positive response, possibly due to his poor suit.

"He's the one."