Chapter 5 Birthday Gift

As Bobby continued to show kindness, Ashton felt a genuine warmth in his heart.

Bobby had been the only source of warmth Ashton had experienced in the James family household for the last two years.

Slowly, his anger ebbed away.

No matter what, Ashton swore not to let anything spoil Bobby's birthday celebration.

With a faint smile, Ashton said, "It's nothing, Bobby. I just wanted to wish you a happy birthday."

Bobby's keen gaze softened into a kind smile. "Good, my boy. Since you're here to celebrate, let's get the party started. Come on in."

Bobby took Ashton by the hand and led him toward the banquet hall.

From the sidelines, Phillip watched the interaction, his anger boiling over. The spotlight was stolen by Ashton, whom Bobby personally escorted into the hall.

Not wanting to be outdone, Phillip hurriedly followed the others into the banquet hall.

With Bobby seated at the head of the table, the birthday banquet officially began.

As all eyes were on Bobby, Phillip saw his opportunity. He stood and confidently approached the older man, a carefully selected gift in hand.

When Bobby, who was in good spirits, saw Phillip approaching, his smile dimmed.

"Phillip, long time no see!" Bobby greeted with a smile not quite reaching his eyes.

Phillip had almost married Emalee but had fled abroad at the last minute. The wedding invitations had been sent, and the James family had narrowly avoided becoming the town's gossip. Fortunately, Ashton, indebted to Emalee for saving his life, had stepped in to marry her, preserving the family's dignity.

Phillip was aware Bobby still held some resentment over what happened two years ago.

With a forced smile, he began, "I apologize for what happened two years ago. I'll clear up that misunderstanding soon. But today, I'm here to celebrate. Happy birthday, Bobby. I hope you like this gift."

Without further ado, Phillip presented the dazzling gift box to Bobby.

The guests gasped in awe at the sparkling packaging, all anticipating a valuable treasure inside.

Amid the guests' excited murmurs, Phillip carefully opened the box to reveal a porcelain statue.

"This genuine antique was specially procured from abroad. It has a great collection value. I hope you like it!" Phillip declared confidently. His face radiated pride as he was convinced that this thoughtful gift would make Bobby warm up to him.

The members of the James family seated around Bobby couldn't help but express their amazement and lavished Phillip with praise for his choice.

To everyone's astonishment, Bobby appeared unmoved by the gesture. After a brief glance at the antique, he offered a nonchalant "thank you" and nothing more.

This left Phillip, who was at first overflowing with confidence, feeling somewhat embarrassed.

Bobby's lukewarm response not only dampened Phillip's spirits but also made the James family members and other guests who had been praising Phillip feel flustered.

Phillip's expression hardened as he caught sight of Ashton sitting beside Bobby. His eyes narrowed, and he shifted his focus to Ashton.

"Ashton, you said you were here to wish Bobby a happy birthday as well, right? What gift did you bring him?" Phillip asked with a smile.

At Phillip's question, all eyes turned to Ashton.

Rumors of the earlier commotion at the entrance had spread among the guests, and many were eager to see Ashton make a fool of himself.

Yet, under the intense gaze of the crowd, Ashton remained composed. He nodded affirmatively and replied, "Of course, I brought a gift."

He reached into his pocket and pulled out a delicate white porcelain bottle.

Before Ashton could explain his gift, Tristan snatched the bottle from him. Then, he opened it and immediately showed a look of disdain.

Inside was a small, dark pill.

"Considering how well my grandpa has treated you, this is what you brought? Isn't this a bit underwhelming?" Tristan sneered.

Relieved, Phillip loudly began to share his knowledge.

"I've heard of a miraculous remedy known as the Longevity Pill. It's jet black and can be identified by its subtle fragrance, detectable from over ten feet away. Supposedly, it possesses incredible life-extending properties. However, such a pill is the work of a reclusive master, making it exceedingly rare and highly coveted by the elite. Ashton, don't tell me this pill you brought is a Longevity Pill?"

Ashton gave a small smile and nodded. "Yes, this is indeed a Longevity Pill, and it's my gift to Bobby."

As soon as he finished speaking, a hush fell over the room.

Everyone was momentarily stunned, their eyes fixed on the bottle in Tristan's hand. The realization dawned on them that if this was truly a Longevity Pill, its value was immeasurable.

Such a pill, reputed to extend life, was a coveted treasure that many could only dream of possessing.