In the realm of software innovation, there once emerged a prodigy at the tender age of thirteen, hailed as a child genius during an era whenputer technology was in its infancy. Known for pushing machines to their limits, he made significant contributions to


    technological advancements, with his legendary hacking skills creating countless tales of awe some thirty years ago.


    At the back of the room stood another figure who, in his youth, had been weed by presidents across the globe. By thirty, he was pioneering nuclear technology and had garnered numerous des both at home and abroad-a retired genius in the field of physics. Any one of these individuals could cause quite a stir just by showing up in Devonport. The atmosphere inside the hall was so tense, it was almost suffocating.


    From the second floor, Jenna and Angelo spotted Sophie standing at the entrance and hurried downstairs, their steps quick but cautious. Even Jenna, usually unafraid of anything, slowed her pace, careful not to make a sound that might upset the distinguished guests. Jenna sidled up to Sophie, lowering her voice, "How did you get here so quickly? Colby and the others haven''t made it back yet."


    Angelo, standing nearby, extended a hand as if caught in the act, whispering, "...I was the one who called Sophie toe back early."


    "You..." Jenna started, realizing the gravity of the situation. These were not people to be trifled with. Sophie alone might not be able to handle it. They really needed Colby and Adler to return pronto.


    Just then, Kevin tapped his cane on the floor, a sharp sound that echoed through the hall, drawing everyone''s attention. Even Jenna and Angelo straightened up, wary of making any noise.


    "Ms. Sophie, the Aldridge family seal is of utmost importance to us. I must insist you return it," Kevin said, his voicemanding respect. At seventy, his eyes were sharp and his demeanor exuded calm authority, making him impossible to refuse.


    "Mr. Howard, it''s not that I refuse to return it, it''s that I... cannot," Sophie replied, causing a stir among the crowd. Even a slight frown from the audience was enough to make Jenna''s heart race. The atmosphere at Burke Estate grew even more charged.


    In just a short while, Angelo found it hard to breathe under the oppressive tension, unlike anything he had ever experienced.


    "Youngdy, that belongs to the


    Aldridge family. If you refuse to


    return, don''t me us for note


    showing respect due to our age," said one of the expatriates


    At this, the elder sitting by Kevin spoke up, "Enough talk. If she won''t return it, we take action."


    As soon as these words were spoken, the bodyguards stationed behind them stepped forward in unison.N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    Seeing this, Timothy quickly moved to stand in front of Sophie.


    Sophie frowned, "You don''t need to be here, get out!"


    "No, I can''t let them hurt Ms. Sophie!" Timothy''s sincerity was palpable, but Jenna felt exasperated. What was he thinking at a time like this? Trying to y the hero? Didn''t he realize who he was dealing with? The bodyguards backed by the Aldridge family weren''t just anybody; any one of them could easily take him down.


    Seeing this, Sophie swiftly delivered a karate chop to Timothy''s neck, knocking him out cold.