Chapter 19 Valerie looked at Elaine with a hint of surprise , her eyes filled with curiosity and confusion . She wondered , ' Have I missed something ? I haven't heard that the Valentine family has another daughter . ' Georgina nudged Valerie gently , and she quickly realized her mistake . With a small , awkward laugh , she said , " Ms. Valentine , you're so beautiful . You must still be in school , right ? " Elaine had smooth , fair skin , delicate features , and bright , clear eyes . To someone unfamiliar with her , she might easily be mistaken for a university student just stepping into the adult world . Stacy smiled and answered , " Elaine's already graduated . She's been living abroad for the past few years and just returned to the country two weeks ago , so that's probably why you haven't met her before . " With that explanation , Georgina and Valerie seemed to understand , and they showered Elaine with compliments . Elaine kept a polite smile on her face , thanking them when their praise finally tapered off . Just as Stacy was about to introduce her to other people , a commotion 0.00 % 23 D 23 07.22 Chapter 19 288 Vouchers broke out in the hall . Everyone turned toward the source of the noise . A man had entered the venue , dressed in a sharp suit . His face was handsome , but his demeanor was refined and distant . His cool , aloof air was impossible to ignore . His presence seemed to elevate the entire event , and several people moved quickly to greet him , shaking his hand and exchanging pleasantries . He smiled , but his expression remained calm and reserved - not too warm , not too cold . Marcelo approached , and both Elaine and Stacy greeted him at the same time , " Dad . " Marcelo gave a brief nod , then turned to Elaine , slightly lifting his arm . " Come with me . " She hesitated for a moment before realizing his intent . She linked her arm with his . He guided her through the crowd toward Jackson , who was engaged in conversation with others . When they approached , Marcelo smiled and said , " Mr. Mason , it's an honor to have you here for the Valentine family's celebration . " 27.61 % C 07.22 23 O 23 Chapter19 288 iVouchers " Mr. Valentine , you're too kind , " Jackson replied , offering a faint smile . His gaze shifted to Elaine , who was still linked to Marcelo's arm , and he teasingly remarked , " Mr. Valentine , bringing such a beautiful companion to the birthday party - aren't you worried Mrs. Valentine might be jealous ? " Elaine hadn't expected Jackson to joke like that . Marcelo chuckled . " This is my youngest daughter , Elaine . " He then turned to Elaine and introduced her to Jackson , " Elaine , this is Mr .. Mason . " Since Jackson was pretending not to recognize her , Elaine didn't see any reason to call him out , which was exactly what she had hoped for . She smiled and said , " Mr. Mason . Jackson nodded slightly . As more people came forward to greet him , Marcelo gently guided Elaine away . The room had filled with young heirs from prominent families , and Marcelo moved smoothly through the crowd , introducing Elaine to various guests . Meanwhile , Cordell , who had been speaking with someone else , seemed distracted . His gaze kept following Elaine , ignoring the conversation happening in front of him . His restless movements , with the wine glass in his hand , showed just how uneasy he was . 52.36 % 23 Nevrent 23 07.22 Chapter19 288 Vouchers After a while , Elaine's smile had become forced . It seemed like Marcelo noticed her growing disinterest and decided to give her a break , allowing her the opportunity to slip away to the restroom . When Cordell saw her heading toward the restroom , he excused himself from his conversation , placed his glass on a passing waiter's tray , and quietly left the party hall . Elaine had just stepped out of the restroom when she turned a corner and unexpectedly ran into Cordell . He was leaning casually against the wall , one hand in his pocket and the other playing with a lighter . With a soft click , the flame flickered to life , casting a cool blue glow in the dimly lit hallway . 82.55 %