Matthew frowned in the backseat of the Porsche. The Mini swerved several times, and Matthew's patience wore thin. He asked Charles to pick him up; his time had been wasted. Just as they neared the company, the car was rear-ended. This infuriated Matthew.

In the rearview mirror, Matt saw a young man in a trendy outfit emerging from the Mini. He looked like a frivolous twenty-something and didn't seem to take the accident seriously. Then he saw the Porsche logo, and his face paled. Matthew signaled to Charles to handle it. Caleb was responsible and would have to pay for the damages. Charles informed him that repairs would cost $16,000.

Caleb freaked out. He earned a decent income but hadn't saved much. He drove a BMW, the cheapest model, worth around $40,000—hardly enough for a Porsche tire. He still owed money on the BMW loan and couldn't afford $16,000.

Matthew had actually orchestrated the accident. He didn't care about the money but wanted to teach the young man a lesson.

Just then, Charles said, "Mr. Grant, that appears to be Miss Warren. She just got out of the car."

The familiar name caught Matthew's attention. He looked in the rearview mirror and saw Valerie in a white shirt and black skirt.

"What's she doing here?" he thought, his eyes hardening.

Valerie examined the dent, took photos, and made some calls. "Calm down," she said to the panicking Caleb.

Then, with a smile, she approached Charles. "Sir, we're sorry about the accident. We're happy to pay for the damage, but $16,000 is excessive. I have a friend at the Porsche Service Center. Can we send your car there? We'll cover the bill. You know there's always a wait for Porsche repairs, but I can get your car back to you in two days. We'd really appreciate it." She spoke calmly, confidently, and logically.

Charles hesitated. A slender, bony hand waved from the window—clearly a man's. The simple gesture was somehow captivating. Charles's demeanor softened, and Valerie, sensing the Porsche belonged to the backseat passenger, subtly nodded toward the rearview mirror in thanks.

"Our president has an important meeting," Charles said.

"Sure, no problem. I've already spoken to my friend at the Porsche Service Center. This is my card; feel free to contact me with any issues." Valerie smiled and handed over her business card.

Back in the car, Charles chuckled. "I didn't expect you to be kind to a woman, Mr. Grant."

Matthew narrowed his eyes. "You're playing with fire, Charles."

A chill ran down Charles's spine, and he fell silent.

Matthew glanced in the rearview mirror again. He hadn't intended to help Valerie, but the meeting was about to begin, and he didn't want her to see his face. He was slightly impressed by her composure, calmness, and efficiency under pressure.

"Why was she in that BMW? And that man?" Matthew thought, noticing a tall man watching Valerie. Matthew's eyes darkened.