Tiffany was sipping watermelon juice and watching a show when her father's words made her laugh. "Ha-ha…Ahem…" Her joy quickly turned to sorrow as she choked on her laughter. Eric quickly fetched a napkin and gave it to her.

Tiffany calmed down, then politely greeted Richard. "Hello, Mr. Hampton," she said sweetly and obediently.

Seeing this, Eric also greeted Richard. Richard's face darkened. This seemingly increased his seniority in Tiffany's eyes. He was even more disheartened by the playful smile and mischievous glint in her eyes.

Everyone present was observant. However, seeing Richard's dark expression, most misunderstood, believing Tiffany's laughter had angered him. They looked at her accusingly, many concluding that Charlie's precious daughter was crude and ill-mannered, despite her beauty.

Someone said, "Charlie, you must take your daughter home and teach her some manners. She's behaving terribly!"

Another chimed in, "That's right. She's too rude. Why was she laughing? She should apologize to Mr. Hampton."

Charlie, fiercely protective of Tiffany, tolerated only praise. Any dissatisfaction, no matter how slight, was unacceptable. These lectures, politely put, were due to Tiffany's insensitivity; bluntly, they were accusations of vulgarity and poor manners.

Charlie's expression darkened; he was about to retaliate. But Richard tapped his finger on the table, looking at everyone casually. His thin lips curved into a faint smile as he said, "Are you even qualified to speak here?" His tone was gloomy and aggressive.

A chill ran down the spines of those who had been chattering. Those who understood the situation quickly apologized, bowing and smiling awkwardly. One even slapped his own mouth.

Richard's expression remained unchanged, though a slight frown showed his dwindling patience. His assistant firmly, yet politely, gestured to the group. "Everyone, please take your seats." No one dared to speak further; they dispersed dejectedly.

Conner, hoping to introduce Mason to Richard for future benefit, was ignored. The assistant politely dismissed him, saying, "Mr. Lee, it's your banquet; please entertain your guests." This was a subtle way of urging him to leave.

Conner, unwilling to offend Richard, politely excused himself, leaving with his wife and Mason. Mia, however, remained. She longed to connect with Richard, hoping he had come to support her, knowing her current situation. But Richard ignored everyone, choosing Tiffany's table—their matching deep blue gowns and suits strikingly similar. This stung Mia.

Clutching her dress, Mia approached, asking, "Mr. Hampton, don't you remember me?" Her tone implied a shared past. Tiffany raised an eyebrow, ready to watch the unfolding drama. The assistant looked on sympathetically.

Richard coldly glanced at her. His eyes held no warmth. "Who are you?" His words crushed Mia's confidence. She'd always felt special, believing he must remember her from past public appearances. But he didn't even know her name.

Tears welled in Mia's eyes as she retreated, her makeup unable to hide her embarrassment, disappointment, and jealousy. Tiffany felt helpless, silently cursing Richard for making her disliked. Mia, choking back tears, left.

Charlie and Thalia remained confused, feeling inexplicably pressured by Richard's imposing presence. He commanded respect; his word held immense power in Lovell City, able to shape lives and fortunes. Offending him had dire consequences.

Charlie sought to ease the tension. But before he could speak, Richard calmly moved his cutlery, saying, "Mr. Kelley, I hear you're working on a project regarding the old alley's renovation."

This old alley was a Lovell City landmark, a preserved historical site, rumored to be transformed into a commercial street. Charlie, involved in the bidding, preferred a film studio, believing it would attract tourists and boost the local economy. His proposal, however, was rejected.

Richard's mention of the project caught Charlie off guard. He admitted his involvement. The assistant immediately produced a contract. It was the old alley renovation contract, awarded to the Kelley Group—granting them complete control.

Richard calmly wiped his mouth. "Coincidentally, I share your vision. It's perfect for you."

Charlie, shocked, pointed out it was a bidding project. Richard responded, "Oh, now it's mine. Bidding is troublesome; buying it directly is simpler."

Charlie was stunned. This was a priceless ancient building, yet Richard treated it as casually as choosing a dish. Even seasoned businessmen like Charlie were awestruck by Richard's generosity.

Overwhelmed, Charlie agreed, eager to collaborate. Richard softened, mentioning Tiffany's age and asking her to call him by his first name.