The Alphas' Pride Mate (The Pride Who Goes Into Heat)

LEADER.

Chapter: 24
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The grand ballroom of the prestigious New Dodgeborough hotel bustled with activity as the city's annual event was set to commence. The room was adorned with magnificent decorations, and sparkling chandeliers casting a warm glow over the attendees. The air was thick with anticipation as prominent figures from various sectors of society mingled, their conversations filled with whispers of political intrigue and power plays.

Dirk, dressed immaculately in a tailored suit, made his entrance into the ballroom alongside Bogo and Pedro who had arrived even before they did. Heads turned in his direction, and whispers of his name rippled through the crowd. As the Boss, his presence commanded attention and respect, even in the midst of the city's elite.

The council members, aware of Dirk's request, had arranged for a press conference to be held during the event. The stage was set, microphones at the ready, and a backdrop displaying the seal of New Dodgeborough. The anticipation in the room grew as the council members took their places on the stage, their expressions a mix of seriousness and excitement.

With a calm yet authoritative voice, Dirk stepped forward to address the crowd. The room fell silent, all eyes fixed upon him. He exuded an aura of power, his mere presence demanding attention.

"Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests of New Dodgeborough," Dirk began, his voice resonating with confidence. "Today, we gather to discuss the upcoming elections and the future of our beloved city."

A murmur of agreement and interest rippled through the crowd. The citizens of New Dodgeborough were eager to hear what the council and their powerful guest had to say.

"Over the years, we have worked tirelessly to build a city that thrives on unity, progress, and prosperity," Dirk continued, his gaze sweeping across the audience. "But progress requires vigilant leadership, a leader who understands the needs of the people and has the strength to make tough decisions."

He paused for a moment, letting his words sink in. The room was filled with an electric energy, the anticipation mounting.

"Therefore," Dirk declared, his voice steady and resolute, "I implore the council and the citizens of New Dodgeborough to consider the possibility of a mayoral candidate who will prioritize the safety, growth, and well-being of our city. A candidate who will uphold the values we hold dear."

The murmurs and whispers of the crowd reverberated through the room, brimming with palpable excitement. The council members exchanged meaningful glances, their expressions reflecting a blend of surprise and intrigue.

"In this pivotal moment, we stand poised to usher in a new era," Dirk proclaimed, his voice resonating with determination. "Together, we possess the power to mold the future of New Dodgeborough, ensuring its status as an emblem of progress, opportunity, and fortitude." Dirk's gaze swept across the audience, catching sight of the two candidates he had carefully chosen to lead the charge for the people of New Dodgeborough. He acknowledged them with a subtle nod before returning his attention to the microphone. "For this noble cause, I present two exceptional individuals for the mayoral seat: Mr. Dilon Merryweather and Mrs. Jessica Juan-Sanchez..." Dirk announced, stepping aside gracefully to allow both candidates to make their way down the aisle toward the stage. The crowd responded with courteous applause as Dirk descended from the podium, resuming his place in the distinguished seating area.

Dilon ascended the podium, clad in a pristine gray suit, accompanied by his wife, who held his hand. Her dark hair was elegantly styled in a bun, and her eyes sparkled with anticipation. She surveyed the room, recognizing several familiar faces. Her demeanor exuded pride, as she walked beside her husband, projecting confidence and authority to the gathering.

Next, Mrs. Jessica Juan-Sanchez gracefully approached the podium, accompanied by her eight-year-old son, James. As a single mother, she had endured the loss of her husband, a war hero, a few years prior. Together, they had a son who was merely two years old at the time of his father's passing. Jessica, adorned in a regal red ball gown, her raven black hair meticulously coiled in a bun, wore a single gold necklace and bracelet as her son clutched her hand, dressed in a black jacket with a white collar shirt and matching tuxedo pants. James bore a striking resemblance to his late father. As Jessica neared the podium, the crowd erupted into cheers and applause. She graciously acknowledged the excited audience, as if she had been in such a position for years. Her son shyly waved at the attendees while maintaining proximity to his mother, observing the audience with curiosity.

Once the applause subsided, Dilon assumed the position to deliver his speech, his hands clasped behind his back. His demeanor and tone projected a business-like seriousness, almost verging on indifference. "I am confident that many of you are already acquainted with me, the CEO of the Merriweather Corporation and the owner of the most successful advertising agency in town, alongside my wife, Susan," Susan waved and offered a radiant smile as the crowd applauded. "My family has tirelessly worked towards ensuring the success of our town, and I assure you that if elected mayor of New Dodgeborough, I will propel this city into a future of prosperity." His assured delivery left little room for doubt, earning him another round of applause. Dilon bowed briefly before stepping aside to allow Jessica her turn to address the crowd.

With a warm smile, Jessica stepped forward, leaning slightly toward the microphone to maintain privacy. "Greetings and good evening, everyone. I am Jessica Juan, and it is my fervent hope to infuse our beloved city with a renewed sense of optimism and community," she cheerfully introduced herself before continuing. "It is true that I have had to persevere relentlessly to become the best version of myself. While I hold great admiration for my role as the city attorney, I firmly believe that I can contribute even more if elected as the mayor of our remarkable city. Together, as a united family and community, we can elevate this city to unprecedented heights." Her words ignited a chorus of cheering and supportive shouts from the crowd. It became evident that Jessica Juan would be an exceptional candidate, not only due to her shared passion for the city with her husband but also her unwavering willingness to make sacrifices for its betterment. After concluding her speech, Jessica took her son's hand, and they gracefully departed from the podium.

In the final address, Dirk delivered a speech that resonated throughout the grand ballroom. The audience erupted into applause, their enthusiasm filling the air. The council members, previously uncertain, now wore expressions of determination, fully comprehending the weight of Dirk's words and the profound influence they would have on the upcoming elections.

The press conference had kindled a spark, uniting everyone with a shared vision for a brighter future. The city of New Dodgeborough had been reminded of its vast potential, and its citizens were brimming with eagerness to contribute their part in shaping the city's destiny.