Chapter 699

June glanced at Tiffany. "Miss Kelley, are you planning to go?"

Tiffany paused before replying, "Yes, I'll go." This shop was now under her name, and if she didn't show up, Frank, the shopkeeper of Treasure Tower, would definitely grumble.

June nodded. "Understood."

"Wait," Tiffany added. "Didn't I make some beauty and anti-aging spirit herbs a while back? Bring ten of them for the auction." The conference attendees would all be upper-class business magnates and wealthy ladies. It wouldn't hurt to use the event as a marketing opportunity.

June chuckled. "Got it, Miss Kelley."

When news spread that Tiffany would personally attend, Frank was thrilled. "Everyone, be on your best behavior tomorrow. We can't afford any mistakes!" he declared.

One staff member said skeptically, "Why all the fuss? She's just a young girl. You never acted like this when Mr. Ashton was in charge." It was no secret among the staff that Tiffany was only a nominal appraiser at Treasure Tower. Now that she was their boss, some found it hard to take her seriously.

Frank snapped, "What do you know? If anyone here disrespects the new boss, let me know, and I'll settle your salary so you can leave!" Frank had seen firsthand how formidable Tiffany was. She was not only part of the influential Kelley family and Richard's wife, but her status extended far beyond what anyone there could imagine. He was grateful he hadn't treated her poorly in the past.

Under his stern warning, the staff begrudgingly prepared for the conference, though their attitudes remained mixed.

The next day dawned with a light drizzle, but the fresh air only added to the excitement. The Treasure Appraisal Conference was held in a grand banquet hall. Alongside rare antiques, Tiffany's ten beautifying spirit herbs were also listed for auction. Rumors of the herbs' age-defying effects had already stirred excitement, especially among the wealthy ladies in attendance. The hall buzzed with activity as guests arrived in pairs and groups, quickly filling the venue.

Flynn, having recently moved to Lovell City, decided to attend with his daughter, Jennie, upon hearing about the event. On their way to the hotel, Jennie, dressed in a delicate pink dress, asked curiously, "Dad, is it true that those spirit herbs can really make you look younger?"

Flynn chuckled, affectionately patting her head. "I wouldn't know, but I do know my daughter doesn't need them. You're already beautiful enough to outshine anyone."

Jennie blushed, embarrassed by his loud praise, which had drawn the attention of passersby. "Daddy," she murmured.

Flynn laughed heartily.

When they arrived at the entrance, however, they were stopped by a staff member. "Apologies, sir, but you'll need an invitation to enter the conference," the attendant explained politely. They couldn't allow the possibility of unwanted persons ruining the auction.

Flynn frowned. "No exceptions?" His face darkened. Being turned away was a blow to his pride, especially as someone with a notable reputation in the business world.

The attendant said apologetically, "I'm sorry."

Seeing her father upset, Jennie quickly tugged his arm. "Let's just leave, Dad. I wasn't that interested anyway."

Flynn hesitated before sighing. "Fine."

As they turned to leave, a sleek black luxury car pulled up. John stepped out, opening the door gracefully. "Mr. Hampton, we've arrived. I've heard Mrs. Hampton may also be attending this conference today."

Richard Hampton stepped out, his expression calm but thoughtful. Memories of a previous conference with Tiffany flickered in his mind—how she had sneaked off under the pretense of needing the restroom, only to reappear hours later as the master appraiser. She had been so serious and so clever. A faint smile touched Richard's lips at the memory, but it quickly faded.

Flynn, recognizing Richard, immediately seized the opportunity. Pulling his daughter along, he approached with a flattering smile. "Mr. Hampton! What a coincidence to see you here. Are you also attending the Treasure Appraisal Conference? Why don't we go in together?"

John barely concealed an eye-roll at Flynn's audacity.

Richard's reply was curt. "No, thank you." He brushed past them without a second glance.

Flynn's face stiffened at being dismissed so easily. Desperate to salvage the moment, he tugged Jennie forward, hoping she could smooth things over. Unfortunately, the light tug caused Jennie to lose her balance, and she stumbled forward, tumbling down the steps.

"Ah!" Jennie cried out as she fell toward Richard.

Richard, without breaking stride, sidestepped her effortlessly, his face expressionless. Jennie landed awkwardly but was quickly caught by a nearby hotel security guard.

"Be careful, Miss," the guard said, helping her stand.

Jennie, pale and uneasy, managed a timid, "Thank you."

"You're welcome," the guard replied with a friendly smile before returning to his post.

Jennie winced, touching her sprained foot, and glanced up at the steps. Richard was nowhere to be found.