“Mr.
Franco Mitchell, congratulations! You look so vibrant.
I'm quite jealous!”
“Franco, please accept our apologies for being late.
We were held up with urgent matters at the company.
Franco, who had rarely attended banquets in recent years, surprised everyone by attending this one.
Despite a recent scandal at the Mitchell Group, Bryson’s influence had kept the family’s reputation intact.
Several top companies were eager to collaborate with the Mitchell Group and were attempting to win favor
tonight.
Franco smiled.
“Thank you for making it to the party.
| hope it hasn't thrown off your busy schedules.
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He then turned to Grace, who was by his side, and asked with a smile, “Why are you so quiet today? You're
usually the life of the party.
Grace answered with a bright smile, her youthful look masking her sharp mind.
“On such a special night, | just need to be by your side, Grandpa.
Also, Bryson mentioned he’s tied up with an important business matter today and askedto accompany you.
Franco, although strict with Bryson, always showed a soft spot for Grace.
“Okay.
At that moment, Ryleigh and her friends walked up to Franco.
“Mr.
Mitchell, do you remember me?” Ryleigh asked cheerfully.
“I'm Ryleigh Hopkins, a friend of Melina, the daughter of the Hopkins family.
Franco gave her a brief nod, though it was evident he didn’t recall her.
Undeterred, Ryleigh pressed on, “Mr.
Mitchell, I've brought a gift for you today.
She took out a small, fancy box and gave it to Franco.
“Thanks.
” Franco didn’t take it right away.
“You really don’t need to getgifts.
Riley quickly said, “Actually, my father wantedto give this to you.
Please take it.
After hesitating for a moment, Franco accepted the box.
“Alright, if you insist.
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Ryleigh’s face lit up with a happy smile.
She then turned to Grace and said, “Grace, I've got something for you too.
Grace blinked, about to say no politely, when Ryleigh produced a velvet box.
Ryleigh opened it to reveal a diamond ring the size of a dove’s egg.
“Do you like it?”
Grace was shocked.
She really didn’t expect such a fancy gift.
“Grace, the top jewelers made it!” Ryleigh grinned and said, “There's only one like this in the world.
Try it on!”
Grace hesitated for a moment.
“Honestly, this is too much.