James drove into the military region, watched by several witnesses. The Callahans' earlier mockery and humiliation of him were quickly forgotten; James had gained access in the blink of an eye, and the lieutenant was respectful. Was James important? His presence in the military region certainly suggested it.

As he drove, James grinned at Thea. "I didn't lie, did I?"

Thea stared at him, her suspicions resurfacing. Since getting to know James, she'd witnessed several incredible incidents: his healing of her injuries, Alex Yates's personal intervention on her behalf, Bryan Grayson (owner of The Gourmand) gifting her a diamond membership card, and now this. It was all too unbelievable!

James explained, "I was a soldier for ten years before retiring. Knowing some generals is perfectly normal. And, as I've told you, this is an impressive car. The Western Border Patrol has no authority to stop it, while the lieutenant assumed I was a VIP's driver!"

Gladys, a simple woman who saw James as just a soldier—lacking money and authority—was nonetheless perfectly satisfied with his performance.

Just then, a group of fully armed soldiers approached. Upon seeing James's car, they saluted, parted to let it pass, and only marched away after it disappeared.

"Haha, what an honor!" Gladys exclaimed, smiling widely. "James, can I get out and take some pictures?"

"I think you'd better not," James said quickly. "We'll be fine staying in the car. Disembarking will get us thrown out."

Gladys, knowing she had no choice, obeyed. James drove toward the venue, where a stage with mostly filled seating awaited. All attendees, high-ranking officials, wore military uniforms.

James cautioned, "Let's stay in the car. Getting out will get us thrown out. We'll watch the ceremony from here. And Mom, it's best not to take any pictures. Those in attendance are true VIPs. Leaked photos would be a grave mistake."

"Then why are we even here? We might as well watch it on TV at home!" Gladys, whose interest hinged on gaining access, taking pictures, and showing off, lost all enthusiasm at the prospect of not taking photos.

Thea, however, remained interested. From their vantage point beside the stage, they had a clear view of the Blithe King's succession ceremony.

"James, let's go. I want to flaunt this in front of the Callahans!" Gladys declared, referencing years of being treated as invisible, and Benjamin's uselessness in defending her against bullies. She'd had enough.

James looked at Thea. "Thea, do you want to watch the ceremony?"

"Since Mom wants to go home, let's go," Thea replied. "The ceremony hasn't started yet. We can still catch the livestream."

"Okay."

James started the car and drove away. Soldiers were checking invitations, and millionaires were lining up to enter. Just then, James's car reappeared.

"James, honk the horn to let them know we're here."

Beep! James honked immediately.

The final sentence, and the unrelated website promotion, have been removed as they are irrelevant to the story.