After leaving the scene, Gwenda sent Hattie a picture of the broken cup and asked her to identify the other nine buyers. Hattie quickly replied. Gwenda parked her car and, after reviewing the information, learned that eight buyers were from abroad, leaving her feeling disheartened. However, the ninth buyer was local—Dax Morel, the second son of the Morel Group owners.
Gwenda reviewed Dax's data, then pondered. She knew only one person likely acquainted with him. Immediately, she drove to Petit Corporation's office building. While walking inside, she called Olivier, but he didn't answer. She tried several times, even reaching the reception desk, without success.
"Miss, can I help you?" the receptionist asked.
Gwenda lowered her phone. "I'm looking for Mr. Petit."
"Do you have an appointment?"
"No."
"I'm sorry, we can't let you upstairs without an appointment."
Gwenda's expression hardened. "Do you know Mr. Petit's whereabouts?"
"I'm sorry, I don't."
Gwenda was frustrated. She couldn't find Olivier at this critical moment. After considering her options, she asked, "Can I see his assistant, Otto, without an appointment?"
"Yes, of course. I'll inform him."
Soon, Gwenda spoke with Otto.
"Is Mr. Petit busy?" she asked.
"He's in a meeting. Miss Evans, is this urgent?"
"Not an emergency, but could you arrange a meeting?"
"Certainly. Follow me."
Otto escorted her upstairs, baffling the receptionists.
"Who is that woman? Why is Otto listening to her?" one whispered.
"That's not the point! She's the first woman Otto's ever listened to! What's her relationship with Mr. Petit?"
"Is the company gossip true? Is she his girlfriend?"
"Are you stupid? If she were his girlfriend, she wouldn't need to go through reception."
"You're right"
They remained puzzled about Gwenda's identity.
Gwenda followed Otto to the president's floor. He led her to the guest room, but as she passed the conference room, she saw Olivier through the glass. He sat tall and straight, his black suit impeccably tailored. His calm demeanor was captivating, and Gwenda stood mesmerized.
Otto, noticing her absence, returned to find her gazing at Olivier. Before he could speak, Olivier saw her, his surprise evident. He immediately stood, ending the meeting, and exited the conference room, leaving the other employees shocked.