Chapter 243

Deep in thought, Grace was interrupted by the sight of a limited edition black Lamborghini Batmobile circling around the fountain pool and stopping at the entrance. The bodyguard in the passenger seat was the first to step out and assist with the door.

Elegantly stepping out of the car, Laura Smith emerged in a sophisticated and dignified white dress.

Her tall figure and meticulous appearance reflected her status as the wife of Mr. Chris Smith, as well as her reputation as the most beautiful flight attendant in the Ministry of Civil Aviation of Freedonia.

Grace greeted her sister–in–law with utmost politeness and courtesy. “Sister–in–law, why are you here?”

“Chris had some matters to handle at the State Affairs Bureau, and I had some free time, so I came to support you,” Laura explained with a gentle smile. Naturally, she took hold of Grace’s wrist, but her gaze quickly shifted to the deserted building, and she subconsciously checked the time.

“Why is it still so quiet? What’s going on?” Laura questioned, her concern evident.

Laura and Grace immediately realized the implications. If no business tycoons were present by the start of the ribbon–cutting ceremony, it would be reported in the afternoon news.

This would inevitably invite online ridicule and undermine Grace’s aspirations of breaking away from the Smith family and establishing her independent career.

Grace maintained a serious expression, but Laura’s concern intensified. Grace reassured her with a smile, “Sister–in–law, don’t worry. Perhaps they were delayed on their way.”

Turning her attention to her assistant, Beth White, who had been transferred from Frant City, Grace instructed, “Call the guests according to the list and inquire about the situation. Offer any assistance they may need.”

“Understood, Director Salen,” Beth replied promptly.

Laura shook her head in disappointment. “Not a single person has arrived. What a coincidence. Don’t try to comfort me. You are the one who will be affected the most.”

Grace maintained a calm smile. “What is there to fear? We still have twenty minutes before the ceremony begins, and even if no one comes today, I will still cut the ribbon!” Her determination. shone through her words.

As soon as she finished speaking, the sound of a woman’s laughter rang out from outside the fountain pool, like silver bells. Lianna Stanley walked towards them in an enchanting purple dress, gracefully and elegantly. This is the funniest joke I’ve heard today. It seems that without the Smith family’s reputation, no one is willing to give you face, little princess. How pathetic.” Laura and Grace both frowned at the same time.

“Why didn’t you stay at home to take care of my dad? What are you doing here?” Laura’s attitude towards her was not respectful because there was no one else around.

“My husband has trouble walking, so I came on his behalf to take a look,” Lianne rolled her eyes arrogantly and sarcastically sneered, “Grace, I hope today’s events teach you a lesson. You should know that without your family’s reputation, you are nothing!”

“Oh?” Grace’s red lips curved slightly, and she remained calm from beginning to end, not flustered in the slightest. “It’s still twenty minutes before it starts. Why are you so impatient?

Lianne coldly snorted, “I’m afraid that even if I give you another hour, no one will come. Just wait 15:14 and see how you’ll become a laughingstork on the internet!”

Laura frowned. “As expected, you’re the one behind this!”

Lianna coldly snorted, denying the accusation, “Don’t falsely accuse me. It’s because Grace has offended so many people that they all want to make her life difficult. I just happened to stop by to witness her embarrassment.” She directed her bodyguard to bring out a chair from inside the building and arrogantly sat down at the entrance.

With twenty minutes remaining until the ceremony, Lianna wanted to witness if Grace’s composure could withstand the situation.

Another five minutes passed. Apart from the sound of water rushing from the fountain, the building was so quiet that everyone present felt a chill.

Beth approached Grace in a hurry and whispered, “Director Salen, the situation is not looking good.

Most of the guests are citing company matters as the reason for their absence. Some are event ignoring my calls. What should we do?”

Lianna perked up her ears, her smile growing even more triumphant.

Grace lowered her head in contemplation, weighing her options. Meanwhile, Laura’s expression turned sour as she suggested, “These people are clearly following someone’s orders and intentionally disrespecting you. Should we consider delaying the ceremony by half an hour? I can call Chris and ensure his presence. With him there, many others will feel compelled to attend under his influence.”

“There is no need,” Grace asserted, holding her phone firmly. “It’s just a ribbon–cutting ceremony. They think they can intimidate me and make me back down? Dream on! Beth, let’s make arrangements for the ceremony…”

Before she could finish her sentence, there was suddenly a burst of screams and commotion from inside the building “Oh my goodness, this is amazing! I envy Director Salen so much!”

“That’s great! Now Director Salen has someone backing her up! Let’s see what they have to say now!”

The employees stood up, holding their phones, and cheered.

Grace, Laura, and even Lianne, who stood at the entrance, all wore puzzled expressions.

Beth glanced at her phone and followed suit, her surprise evident. “Director Salen, quickly look at the news!”

Grace skeptically opened her phone and discovered that the search terms rapidly climbing the trending list were all related to her.

“[Grant Family to Invest in New Entertainment Company, Angle)”

“[CEO Grant Lavishly Spoils Fiancee, Splurging Eight Hundred Billion]”

Numerous netizens expressed their envy and admiration! The news of an eight hundred billion investment with just a single word showcased the sheer grandeur of the wealthiest family!

Originally, Grace had only invested ten billion into the new Angle building, which was still insignificant in the current entertainment industry. But Eder’s announcement of a staggering eight hundred billion investment instantly elevated Angle’s worth and status.

It allowed Angle to soar twenty steps higher! This was clearly a remarkable and impressive backdoor entrance. Not only did it represent Eder’s recognition and wholehearted support for his fiancee, but it also indicated that the Grant family behind him would back Grace as well.

Eder, currently the most sought–after figure in all of Freedonia, actively showing goodwill towards Grace in this manner, made all the young ladies from influential families envious.

Laura clicked her tongue in satisfaction. ‘Eder is not bad. He always remembers to protect you. It seems that with him around, your brothers can worry a little less about you.”

After reading the news, Grace remained silent. Although she was surprised, her face looked serious.

Lianne clenched her fists, feeling upset. She remembered that Eder didn’t even show up at the Dust–

Washing Banquet. Obviously, he didn’t care about her. How did he quickly develop feelings for Lu Grace?

She looked at the time–it was already 9:20. The gloomy mood instantly lifted, and she became happy again.

“Only ten minutes left. I’m afraid no one will come to support you today. Even if Eder supports you, this ribbon–cutting ceremony is destined to become a bigger joke. Even the Grant family will be criticized along with it. It’s so amusing!” Lianne raised her chin triumphantly, feeling a sense of relief.

Laura was infuriated by her words and was about to retort when she suddenly heard the sound of cars approaching from a distance.

One luxury car after another arrived and parked outside the Angle building.