Building a Conglomerate in Another World

September 12th, 1888, continued with the reception moving to the Grand Meridian Hotel, the most luxurious establishment in Sylvania. The hotel's grand facade, made of polished white stone, stood tall against the clear sky, and its large glass doors gleamed under the electric lights lining the street. Inside, the hotel's ballroom was prepared to accommodate the hundreds of guests attending the reception.

Matthew and Amber arrived in a sleek carriage, the sound of its wheels stopping drew attention from the waiting crowd. A doorman promptly opened the carriage door, and Matthew stepped out, offering his hand to Amber. Her white wedding gown still sparkled under the lights, and the crowd murmured in admiration.

The hotel manager greeted them at the entrance, bowing slightly. "Mr. and Mrs. Hesh, welcome. Everything has been prepared to your specifications."

"Thank you," Amber replied with a polite smile. Matthew nodded his acknowledgment, and they entered the hotel.

The ballroom was bustling with activity. Waiters in crisp uniforms moved quickly but quietly between tables, delivering drinks and appetizers to the guests already seated. The guests, representing Sylvania's elite, chatted and laughed as they waited for the newlyweds to arrive. Chandeliers hung from the ceiling, illuminating the space with a soft golden glow. Tables were arranged in neat rows, each covered in white cloth and adorned with centerpieces of flowers and candles.

When Matthew and Amber entered the room, a hush fell over the crowd, quickly followed by applause. They walked to their seats at the head table, positioned in front of a small stage where the evening's speakers and musicians would take turns. As they sat, Matthew gave Amber a reassuring smile.

The dinner began with a simple toast by Charles Fitzwilliam, Amber's father. He stood at the stage, holding a glass of wine. "Ladies and gentlemen," he began, "thank you all for coming to celebrate this union. This marriage is not just the joining of two families but a symbol of trust, progress, and the future of Sylvania. To Matthew and Amber, may your journey together be long and fruitful."

Everyone raised their glasses, and the sound of "Cheers" filled the room. The first course was then served—a rich soup paired with freshly baked bread. The meal continued with a steady flow of dishes, from roasted meats to fresh vegetables, all prepared to perfection.

While the dinner carried on, small conversations filled the room. President Theodore Clay, seated at a table near the couple, leaned toward Charles and spoke in a low voice. "You've outdone yourself, Fitzwilliam. This is the finest reception I've seen in years."

Charles smiled with pride. "My daughter deserves nothing but the best. And Matthew...he's proven himself worthy."

After dinner, the orchestra began to play a soft waltz. The ballroom's attention shifted to the center as Matthew and Amber stood. Matthew extended his hand, and Amber took it, standing gracefully. Together, they moved to the middle of the room, where the other guests cleared space for the newlyweds.

The music shifted, signaling the start of their first dance. Matthew wasn't a trained dancer, but he'd spent enough time practicing to avoid embarrassing himself. Amber's movements were smooth and confident, guiding him when necessary. The two of them moved in time with the music, their steps simple but deliberate. Around them, the crowd clapped softly, and some guests whispered about how well they complemented each other.

When the first dance ended, applause erupted, and other couples joined the dance floor as the orchestra transitioned to a livelier tune. Robert Anders, Matthew's best man, grabbed a glass of wine and leaned over to a nearby table. "Well, there goes Matthew," he joked. "Finally someone who can keep him in line."

The nearby guests chuckled, enjoying the lighthearted atmosphere.

As the evening continued, Matthew and Amber moved through the crowd, thanking guests for coming. Many congratulated them, some with genuine warmth and others with a hint of politeness common among the elite.

"I must say," one industrialist remarked to Matthew, "you've done quite well for yourself. Marrying into the Fitzwilliam family opens many doors."

Matthew smiled politely, steering the conversation back to neutral ground. "It's not just about the doors. Amber and I share the same vision for the future, and that's what matters most."

Nearby, Amber was deep in conversation with a group of women who admired her gown.

"It's stunning," one said, running a hand lightly over the lace. "Was it imported?"

Amber nodded. "From Paris. My mother insisted on the best."

Matthew eventually found himself in a quieter corner with President Clay. The two men exchanged a firm handshake. "Mr. Hesh," Clay began, "this event speaks highly of you. But remember, as much as this is a personal celebration, it's also a public statement."
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"I understand, Mr. President," Matthew replied. "But I intend to keep my focus on Amber and what we can build together."

Clay's expression softened slightly. "Good. Keep that focus. It'll serve you well."

Later in the evening, Robert Anders took to the stage for a toast. Standing tall with a glass of champagne in hand, he called for the room's attention. "Ladies and gentlemen," he began, "I've known Matthew Hesh for years. If there's one thing I can say about him, it's that he's relentless. Once he sets his sights on something—or someone—he doesn't stop until he achieves it."

The crowd chuckled, and Robert continued. "But tonight isn't about his determination. It's about the partnership he's formed with Amber. Together, they represent a bright future, not just for their families but for everyone here. So, let's raise our glasses to Matthew and Amber."

The room echoed with the clinking of glasses and a resounding "To Matthew and Amber!"

As the festivities stretched late into the evening, Matthew and Amber slipped out to the hotel's private terrace. The city of Sylvania spread out before them, its lights twinkling like stars. Amber leaned on the railing, her expression thoughtful.

"It's been quite a day," she said, her voice calm but tinged with fatigue.

Matthew joined her, his hands resting on the railing beside hers. "It has. But seeing everything come together...it's worth it."

Amber nodded. "It is. And I'm glad we have this moment. Just the two of us."

Matthew smiled, placing his hand over hers. "We'll have plenty more of these moments, Amber. This is just the beginning."

They stayed there for a while, enjoying the quiet before returning to the celebration, knowing that the life awaiting them would be filled with challenges, victories, and moments like this—moments of peace and unity.