"Mr. Grant! I can't believe I might actually meet Mr. Grant in person today!" one attendee gushed excitedly.

"I was so lucky to secure an invitation," another chimed in.

The buzz of conversation around Valerie made it impossible to overhear the excited chatter about Mr. Grant. She thought in surprise, 'Mr. Grant? Could this be the same Mr. Grant I had to submit that complaint letter to? Come to think of it, if it weren't for his intervention, I might never have gotten Dylan to resolve that order issue so smoothly.'

Valerie was curious about the CEO who had helped her and wanted to join the festivities surrounding his arrival.

As she tried to reach Mr. Grant, she realized the path was completely blocked by guests. She strained to catch a glimpse, but the crowd made it impossible to see him, let alone discern his features.

Moments before, everyone had been engaged in their own conversations, but the CEO's arrival drew all eyes and attention, making him the undisputed center of attraction. The scene rivaled that of a top celebrity. "Such a grand spectacle," Valerie murmured, loud enough for nearby Noria Group employees to hear.

"You don't know who Mr. Grant is, do you?" one asked.

"He's more than just the CEO of Noria Group. The Grant family has always been the wealthiest in Kranson City, and Mr. Grant has been recognized as the most capable business prodigy in Kranson City for fifty years. No one in Kranson City would dare oppose him."

"Whether it's the Grant family's affluence or Mr. Grant himself, they're unmatched. If anyone could marry Mr. Grant, they'd be a clear winner in life," another employee added.

After speaking, they glanced at Valerie's badge and showed disdain. "So, you're from Arcton Cars. No wonder you're so clueless."

They sneered and walked toward the crowd.

Valerie didn't mind. She was used to Arcton Cars being treated poorly by Noria Group since the acquisition. Ironically, she found it interesting that the CEO, "Mr. Grant," was having a hard time; a big character watched like a gorilla in a zoo.

Valerie decided against pushing through the crowd. She was pregnant and didn't want to risk injury. She picked up her cupcake and continued eating.

Despite the crowd, those around Matthew automatically made way for him. This was partly due to respect for the Noria Group CEO, and partly because Matthew appeared unapproachable. He strode forward without looking around; he had a meeting and other plans.

Suddenly, Charles approached. "Mr. Grant, Mrs. Grant appears to be present."

"Valerie! Why is she here?" Matthew stopped, his face frozen. "Has she found out my identity and come here to reveal it, forcing me to acknowledge her as my wife? She's quite cunning."

"Mr. Grant has been eating all this time. She doesn't seem to realize you are here," Charles said.

Matthew was speechless. He saw Valerie sitting alone, enjoying her cupcake with relish and concentration.

For the first time, Matthew realized he wasn't even as important as the cupcakes.