The night was dim, and an air of mystery surrounded the party hosted by Minton International. Rumor had it that Odie had arrived in Devonport, attracting the attention of many prestigious families eager to make his acquaintance.


    This particr evening, Minton International had organized a soiree held in a private vi that had gone unnoticed until now.


    Sophie, a long-time resident of Devonport, had nevere across this building before. It seemed as if it had magically appeared, sparking curiosity within her. However, pondering over this mystery wasn''t her priority at the moment.


    The event hosted by Minton International was graced by business partners based in Devonport alongside top influencers and leading actresses active across various tforms.


    As Sophie stepped out of her car, she immediately noticed so many famous celebrities.


    Sophie wore a mask distributed by Minton International, which concealed half of her face, and donned a simple yet elegant white mermaid dress. She inadvertently drew attention due to her unfamiliar presence.


    Minton International was known for itsvish balls, making it easy for attendees to recognize each other even behind masks. However, Sophie was an exception; no one recognized her, marking her as an unfamiliar face.


    She had ess to Minton International''s event thanks to Aldridge Global''s clout in the entertainment industry. Despite suspicions from others, it was understood that attendees were either wealthy or of high social standing, so no one questioned Sophie''s presence.


    "Invitation, please."


    The guard''s indifferent tone didn''t upset anyone, as guests willingly presented their invitations. It was a sight to behold as business magnates and celebrities humbly sought entry into Minton International''s main event.


    When it was Sophie''s turn, the guard gave her a scrutinizing look, which she found displeasing. Yet, she had no choice but to act oblivious.


    "Your invitation."


    Upon seeing the Aldridge Global invitation, the guard''s demeanor softened, "Please,e in."


    Sophie nodded.


    The event was predominantly attended by business tycoons and female stars, with scarcely any male celebrities present.


    The hall was bustling with guests. Sophie remembered Gordon''s advice to remain inconspicuous and use her familiarity with high society to identify the entrepreneurs attending the event on behalf of Minton International.


    Following Gordon''s advice, Sophie casually picked up a ss of juice and moved to a corner.


    Among the attendees were


    long-term coborators with Burker


    International from the Drennon family, leading figures in the real- estate sector like the Morris family, the Nelson family from the construction industry, and the Calpri family in electronics.


    Having spent time alongside James,


    Sophie recognized many entrepreneurs and was surprised Minton International''s extensive influence in Devonport. These influential business figures were eager to curry favor with


    International, hinting at Minton


    significant clout.


    Moreover, dealings with Minton International were required to be transactional. This raised suspicions since many of these businesses publicly imed to be phnthropic. So, unofficial dealings with Minton International suggested covert coborations. Têxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    As Sophie focused on her observations, a figure in a crisp white shirt and a gentlemanly demeanor, wearing a mask, approached. She instantly recognized him as Ricardo. Fearing recognition, Sophie discreetly moved aside.


    Ricardo, clearly well-acquainted with the attendees, seemed to be a regr at Minton International''s events.


    "Mr. Ricardo, business seems challengingtely. Need any assistance?" someone asked.


    "Just minor setbacks. I''ll handle them once I return to Bloomsbury. But of course, I''m keen on partnering with Minton International," Ricardo replied, raising his ss in a toast.


    Sophie, listening from a distance, confirmed that Ricardo was conversing with a representative from Minton International.


    Just then, Ricardo seemed to notice something and looked towards Sophie.


    Instinctively, Sophie averted her gaze and turned away, exposing only her back to Ricardo.


    Ricardo frowned slightly, prompting an attendee to tap him lightly and ask, "Mr. Ricardo, who just caught your eye?"


    "No one."


    The middle-aged man watched Sophie''s retreating figure andmented, "This woman seems a bit unfamiliar, probably a neer making her debut in the entertainment industry. If you take a liking to her, you could take her home tonight, Mr. Ricardo."