Chapter 524



Kallie was no fool. It didn’t take her long to sense that something was off. It was their first day, and none of them were acquainted yet. She might have accessed the guest list earlier, thanks to her prior rapport with the director. But what about the others? Perhaps it was merely an accident.

When the production team approached Kallie to see if she needed clarity on the unfolding situation, she dismissed the idea with a shake of her head. Probing now would seem out of place. The moment for questions had already slipped by. Besides, it seemed trivial. Hand in hand with Sophie, Kallie approached and greeted each guest with genuine warmth.

Their arrival brought smiles all around, though not all faces mirrored the joy. Elaine and Saniya stood apart, marked by their somber expressions. When Kallie caught sight of Saniya, realization dawned on her. Saniya was the girl Kallie had encountered during her visit to the manor with Clayton. At that time, Kallie had made a kind effort to persuade Saniya, but Saniya was convinced that Kallie had intentionally tricked her. Because of this, Kallie formed a negative impression of Saniya.

Saniya recognized Kallie and instinctively hid behind Elaine, as if dodging a threat. Elaine merely scoffed and struck a haughty pose, her closeness with Saniya evident to all.

An ordinary guest, a college student, approached Kallie with a warm greeting. “So, you’re the renowned entrepreneur everyone’s talking about online. You truly are as beautiful as they say. I’ve heard about your dealings with the Turner Group. Your performance is impressive.”

The girl appeared youthful, with a round face and sparkling, childlike eyes that added to her charm. When she smiled, revealing dimples, it immediately lifted the spirits of those around her.

Kallie, catching the positive vibe, smiled back. “I’m really not as remarkable as the media makes me out to be. It’s great to meet you.”

The girl was surprised. “I had no idea you’d be so approachable. My name is Debbie Clifford, a sophomore at Burmoos University. I’m here to gain some experience. It’s amazing how everyone here is so accomplished. You’re barely older than me, yet your achievements are so impressive.”

Debbie’s enthusiasm shone as she continued to compliment the group. Kallie chuckled. “I’m older than you. I have a daughter.”

“Sophie, come over here and say hi to everyone.” Sophie approached with a sweet smile and greeted everyone warmly.

Elaine, who had been somewhat reserved, softened visibly and gently touched Sophie’s cheek. Meanwhile, Saniya remained quiet, hiding behind Elaine once more.

Debbie couldn’t contain her excitement as she squealed and swept Sophie into a hug. “Oh my goodness! She’s adorable. I’ve never seen such a charming little girl before. She’s absolutely delightful!”

Unfazed by the new faces, Sophie chuckled in Debbie’s embrace. “When I grow up, I want to be a star just like you! I’ll shine in the entertainment world and be as gorgeous as you.”

Debbie laughed and gently corrected her. “Well, I’m not a star, and you should focus on your studies first. I’m attending Burmoos University. Maybe you can join me there when you’re older.”

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