“It’s fine,” Freya replied, though a slight disappointment lingered. She hadn't expected a unique gown, and the store's offerings—ranging from tens of thousands to over a million dollars—seemed rather ordinary after she saw that gown. Ultimately, Freya selected a simple, elegant off-white silk gown with delicate floral embroidery.

While paying, she overheard two salespeople whispering, “This necklace and gown together cost over three million dollars. It’s like wearing a villa. Rich people are really extravagant.” The other replied, “That’s true. And this gown will probably only be worn once…”

Three million… Freya was startled. Even if she could afford it, she wouldn't spend that much on a single garment. She shook her head and left.

Back home, Jessica called, inviting Freya to dinner. Learning of the upcoming banquet, Jessica arrived the next afternoon to style Freya. With Freya's inherent fashion sense and Jessica's skill, she looked graceful and elegant, radiating confidence.

That evening, Johnny was stunned. “You look beautiful. This gown suits you perfectly.”

“Thank you,” Freya smiled.

As they drove, Johnny said, “So, you’re officially returning to the company tomorrow?”

“Yes,” Freya answered.

“Perfect timing. Raven will also be joining. I’ll introduce you—” He paused, realizing Freya might not know her. “She’s the algorithms genius I mentioned.”

Freya’s expression froze. “Raven? Is her middle initial J, for Jungle? The one who just returned from Country A?”

Johnny nodded, surprised. “Yes, do you know her?”

“She’s my half-sister,” Freya said flatly.

Johnny was stunned. He knew about Freya’s family, but this was unexpected. Freya's expression turned cold. “She’s also Matteo’s mistress.”

The car braked sharply. Johnny stared, incredulous. “You—”

“I’m fine,” Freya said calmly. “I just don’t want her at our company. Call it nepotism, but I disapprove.”

Johnny, his expression serious, agreed immediately, “I respect your decision.”

Freya’s heart warmed. “Thank you.” Pausing, she added, “But this means you’ll be losing a genius.”

Johnny smiled, glancing at her. “She’s a genius, but compared to you, she’s worthless.”

His words were serious, and Freya was taken aback, thinking him hyperbolic. Sensing her confusion, he laughed, “I’m being honest.”

Freya considered this. “She’s been interviewing for a while. Why hasn’t she joined yet?”

Johnny shook his head. “She said she needed to take care of some things. I didn’t press for details.”

Ten minutes later, they arrived. Freya was lost in thought.

Johnny noticed. “What’s on your mind?”

“I don’t understand why she wants to join,” Freya mused. Their company was successful, but larger firms existed. With Raven’s background, she had numerous options. Freya's own stake in the company was low-profile, so Raven likely didn't know their connection. It made no sense.

Johnny stroked his chin, then smiled. “When we talked, she mentioned our company’s programming language. She said she was very interested in Cuap.”

Cuap, a language Freya and her team had designed at seventeen, was initially dismissed as ordinary. Its brilliance, however, had become the company's most significant advantage.