Five Years Gone, She Returned a Billionaire

Chapter 326: Valerie Wore a Beige Designer Dress That Screamed Elegance

Valerie wore a beige designer dress that screamed elegance and sophistication.

“You made me dress this formally, Grandpa. Who exactly are we meeting?” she asked, curiosity evident in her tone.

“A tremendously influential figure who can turn any situation to her advantage. Your reputation took quite a hit these past few days, didn’t it? This person can help restore it. Make sure you’re on your best behavior,” advised Archibald Worthington.

Valerie’s eyes narrowed slightly. An incredibly prominent person? She thought she knew every major player in their circles. And what did he mean about her reputation suffering? She had sent those system messages to Titan Systems users and faced backlash, but she hadn’t bothered to address it. What could a bunch of internet trolls really do? She looked at her grandfather, her arrogance clear. “Grandpa, why should I care what a bunch of keyboard warriors think? They’re all broke and classless. Their opinions mean nothing.”

“Look at you! How can you be so dismissive? Everyone cares about their online reputation these days. I’ve seen people still posting on your Pulse, demanding you apologize to Aurora!

“You’re my only heir. All my assets will be yours one day. You need to protect your public image. Understand?”

“Fine.” Valerie reluctantly gave in.

Archibald checked his watch. “Three more minutes. Important people are always punctual. I’m going to the restroom. Wait here for her and make good conversation.”

“Okay.” Valerie agreed, though she wasn’t happy about it.

Her grandfather worried too much about appearances. Valerie was too preoccupied with the whole Lucas and Sienna situation to bother with trivial matters. Still… if this could help her reputation, it might be worth it. After all, Archibald Worthington valued his reputation immensely and expected his heir to be free from scandals and criticism to avoid future complications. Valerie took out a compact mirror to touch up her makeup. Just then, the sharp click of high heels echoed through the room. Valerie looked up and saw a woman standing in the doorway.

It was Sienna Bennett! Sienna wore a crisp white suit, looking every bit the professional. She spotted Valerie and glanced at the room number. “Where’s Archibald Worthington?” she asked. Valerie recovered from her surprise and sneered. “How did you find out about this, Sienna? How do you know my grandfather is here? Do you think just anyone can meet him?” Sienna’s eyes narrowed. So Archibald Worthington was Valerie’s grandfather?

Since Beatrice Worthington had arranged the meeting, Sienna hadn’t bothered to investigate further, assuming it was just another industry contact. She never expected Archibald to be so invested in cleaning up Valerie’s mess. Valerie saw Sienna still standing there and leaned back in her chair with a contemptuous laugh. “Why are you still here? Don’t think you can buy my grandfather’s calligraphy with your petty cash. His art isn’t for just anyone, especially not a disgusting bitch like you!

“Even if you get on your knees and beg him, he won’t sell to you. Now get out!”

Her words dripped with venom and disgust. The mere thought of Sienna being with Lucas made Valerie’s stomach turn. Sienna didn’t even bother rolling her eyes. She simply turned and walked away, her steps steady and confident, radiating an undeniable aura of power. Valerie scoffed. A cheap nouveau riche trying to steal Lucas from her? She would make her pay dearly. When Archibald returned to the room, he checked his watch with a puzzled expression. “What’s going on? Didn’t she say she’d be on time? Where is she?”

“Grandpa, why don’t you call and ask? Who would dare keep you waiting?” Valerie suggested.

Archibald agreed and took out his phone to call Beatrice. Little did he know…