"My apologies for the delay." A clear, commanding voice cut through the murmurs, and the entire crowd turned in surprise toward the entrance. That voice... Those who recognized it felt a jolt of excitement. Gordon and Charles, in particular, had their expressions transform in an instant. Jennifer and Carolyn, however, paled with sudden panic. There, standing in the doorway, was Chloe. The main doors to the ballroom had swung open, framing her figure. She stood like a vision emerging from the shadows, compelling and impossible to ignore. Chloe stood poised, a man's tailored overcoat draped over her shoulders. The silhouette of her evening dress beneath was striking, made even more so by the contrast of the masculine coat. She had finally arrived. But something was different. As the light fell on her, the guests could see a fresh, treated cut on her cheek. She was not alone. Several figures accompanied her. Though not exceptionally tall, the woman beside her was instantly recognizable—it was the movie star, Oralia. How did Oralia know Chloe? Why was she here with her? And who was the young boy holding Oralia's hand? Furthermore... who was the tall, imposing man standing behind Chloe? While the crowd was still processing these new arrivals, Lawrence, the representative from Cosmos Group, stepped into view behind the man. After all, countless attendees had shown up precisely because they'd heard Lawrence would grace the event in person. To catch a glimpse of Chloe's glamour and secure a connection with Lawrence? It would have been the perfect win-win. The moment he appeared, the crowd's excitement peaked. Everyone surged forward, eager to exchange a greeting, to make a memorable impression on him. The moment Scott saw Chloe, he snapped out of his stunned silence. Watching her walk slowly toward him, it took him a moment to find his voice. "Chloe!"Chloe moved straight through the crowd, which parted instinctively before her. As she advanced, all eyes remained fixed on her. When she neared Charles, the old man stepped forward, blocking her path with concern. "Child, what happened to you?" he asked, his eyes on the cut on her face. "You're hurt." Seeing Charles, Chloe offered a gentle smile. "Charles, I'm alright. I'm afraid I've disappointed some people—I didn't die." As she spoke, her gaze swept across the room—past Madilyn, past Jennifer, past Arthur—and finally landed on the "perfect family trio" standing on the stage. When her eyes met Carolyn's and Monique's, the corner of her mouth curved into a subtle, knowing smile. It was a smile that made several onlookers pause. She was radiant, yet that expression carried an unsettling chill. "This..." Hearing her say "didn't die", Charles' face darkened. His earlier suspicion had been correct. Chloe had faced danger on her way here. He looked her over with relief. Thankfully, she was safe. Then his attention shifted to the boy, Robert. Charles' expression softened immediately. "Robert, my boy!" he called out warmly. Robert saw him and replied politely, "Great-grandpa! Are you feeling better?" "I'm just fine, dear. Come here, let me give you a hug." Charles spread his arms wide. Without hesitation, Robert walked forward and wrapped his arms around Charles' waist. He was still small, so he had to rise slightly on his toes. Charles was so moved that he let his cane drop and bent down to scoop the boy into a proper embrace. "Charles!" "Grandpa!" Both Arthur and Madilyn were alarmed by Charles' sudden movement. Given his health, a stumble now could be serious. "You've been through a lot, Robert," Charles murmured, his voice thick with emotion. "From now on, if you need anything—anything at all—you tell me. I'll make sure you have it." He gently stroked the boy's cheek. "No matter where you are or what name you go by, you will always be my dear great-grandson. Do you understand?" "Okay. Great-grandpa is the best. I love you," Robert said softly. Then he leaned in and placed a gentle kiss on Charles' forehead, his small hand patting Charles' wrinkled cheek. "You have to be good too, Great-grandpa. Take your medicine on time and get well soon, okay?"