Chapter: 787

When Caden was absent, her presence became a topic of overt or subtle discussion.

"Ms. Bennett? That's a rare last name. Does she come from a notable family?"

"I heard she owns a gallery that trades in renowned artworks."

"Isn't she just profiting from flipping art? I believe Caden financed her gallery.”

“Well, she's young and attractive, exactly Caden's type. With Looks like hers, life is easy!"

“Forget it, I have support from my parents. Why depend on a man?"

They chuckled and dismissed the conversation.

Alicia was testing a high-tech VR machine. After she took off the headset and stepped out, she encountered a group of young men and women laughing loudly.

A woman with long hair, Kasumi Watts, caught her eye and smirked at her.

“How did you find it, Ms. Bennett?" she asked. “Do you enjoy our products?"

Alicia recognized her voice as the one who had bragged about having parental support earlier.

The VR equipment was produced by her family's company.

Many companies were using the event to network and draw in investors, and this VR brand was among them.

Alicia responded casually, "It's alright," and proceeded to pick up a card to complete.

This was a feedback card from the brand. Kasumi saw Alicia give an average rating and her expression shifted. "You're doing this deliberately, aren't you?"

Noticing her annoyance, Alicia recognized she was dealing with a sheltered young woman, unfamiliar with life's tougher realities.

"Why would you think that?" Alicia asked with a smile. "Does your family expect nothing less than perfect scores?”

Kasumi retorted, "You're just retaliating because you overheard us earlier, so you're giving a poor review."

“If you're aware that gossip can upset people, why do it?" Alicia raised an eyebrow and softened her voice as Kasumi became upset.

“Being overly upset about an average score seems a bit much. Are you aiming for perfection, or do you suspect your product falls short?"

Kasumi's expression grew stormy.

Her family's company was large and generally indifferent to individual reviews, but today she was eager to impress and attract investments to boast about at home. A negative review at this time was particularly distressing for her, especially coming from Alicia, who she already disliked.

After completing the card, Alicia handed it to Kasumi. “I've offered some pointers for improvement. Have your team look them over."

This further infuriated Kasumi. She knocked the card out of her hand, glaring at Alicia. "What useful advice can someone who lives off their looks possibly offer? Stop showing off here."

Alicia kept her face neutral. "Fine. Then, consider the advice unnecessary."

Dealing with the impulsive young woman was souring her mood, so Alicia chose to leave.

Kasumi shouted, “Wait! Change your rating first!"

Alicia turned around and mocked, "Is this how the tech industry works? Forcing users to leave positive reviews?"

Kasumi stepped toward Alicia, not physically threatening, but clearly confrontational. "Don't think that just because you're with Caden, you can act all high and mighty. You probably don't know my father just met with him. He decided to collaborate with us, and I will handle the upcoming projects."

Alicia responded calmly, “Oh. What should I say? Congratulate you for taking on such a role at your age?"