The high marble ceilings reflected the bright light of crystal chandeliers.
Wealthy guests walked across the polished floor in tailored tuxedos and long silk gowns.
Richard stood near the large front window with a glass of champagne in his hand.
His five-year-old son Noah held his fingers tightly while looking at the large crowds.
Noah wore a custom navy blue tux that matched his father's expensive designer outfit.
Yet the little boy never smiled during any of these massive high society events.
His mother had passed away when he was just an infant, or so he believed.
Richard lowered his head to check on the young boy standing quietly beside him.
"Are you having fun tonight buddy?" Richard asked while smoothing the boy's dark hair.
Noah did not answer his father and kept his eyes fixed on the floor.
A rich woman in a dark dress walked over to join Richard by the window.
"He is such a quiet child Richard," Victoria said while sipping her imported wine.
"He takes after his family estate side," Richard replied with a tight quick smile.
Victoria was planning to sign a major corporate settlement with Richard's big law firm.
She looked around the massive reception hall with deep respect for his visible wealth.
The ambient chatter filled the room as classical music played softly in the back.
Suddenly, Noah's little hand let go of his father's warm white fingers.
The boy's blue eyes widened as he spotted a maid near the serving cart.
She wore a simple beige uniform and a clean white apron over her waist.
The woman was carefully wiping down silver platters for the catering team nearby.
Noah froze in place for a brief second while staring at her face.
His heart beat fast against his chest as an old memory suddenly returned.
The boy did not wait for permission or think about the heavy rules.
He darted across the slick marble floor as fast as his feet could go.