Ella appeared unfazed by the shocked reactions around her, continuing with perfect composure. "The issue is in their core scheduling algorithm.

The model is outdated and incapable of handling sudden surges in data volume,let alone optimizing routes based on real-time conditions. That's why the system experiences congestion and sorting errors."

The room remained completely silent, everyone stunned by Ella's unexpected expertise.

She paused briefly before delivering her final bombshell. "And my Prometheus Project-the core algorithm I developed three years ago could solve this problem. As for the new system my team at Diamond Tech Solutions is currently developing, it's not only perfectly compatible with Time Warp's hardware but could also increase their overall efficiency by at least thirty percent within a month."

Griffin shot to his feet, his eyes gleaming as he stared at Ella. "Ms. Brooks,are you serious?"

"If you don't believe me, we can sign a performance-based contract right now. If I don't deliver the results I've promised, I won't charge a penny and will compensate Horizon Ventures Inc. for any losses."

Her words resonated with absolute confidence.

Everyone present-all shrewd businesspeople-instantly recognized Ella's value.

This wasn't just some decorative socialite who could only drink and make small talk. She was a technical expert armed with powerful solutions.

"Ms. Brooks! I completely misjudged you!" Griffin exclaimed excitedly,picking up his glass and holding it toward Ella with both hands. "I was incredibly rude earlier. Please accept my sincere apologies! I'll drink this as penance!"

He tipped his head back and downed the strong liquor in one go.

The other executives quickly followed suit, raising their glasses.

"Ms. Brooks is truly remarkable-we all misjudged you!"

"So young yet so accomplished. Your future is limitless!"

"Come,let's all toast Ms. Brooks!"

In an instant, Ella had become the center of attention. The hostile atmosphere from moments ago had completely reversed.

She stood gracefully, lifting her glass with a humble yet confident smile."You're all too kind. I'm just a newcomer taking my first steps. I'll be counting on your guidance in the future."

She tilted her head back and emptied her glass in one smooth motion,displaying an effortless elegance and confidence.

Austin stood to the side, watching Ella being celebrated like a star, his expression darkening to something dangerous.

He had never seen this version of her-confident, powerful, dazzling in a way that made it impossible to look away.

Judith was nearly driven mad with jealousy, unable to comprehend how Ella always managed to turn dire situations to her advantage.

She bit her lin aud forced a concurned eynression.sneakine in a soft.

gentle voice. "Ella, you're so impressive. You know so much. But a young woman drinking so much alcohol among all these men-it's not really appropriate. You should take better care of your health and reputation."

The underlying implication was clear-she was insinuating that Ella had gained these men's approval through improper means.

Before Ella could respond, a sharp sound cut through the room as Griffin slammed his glass down on the table.

His face turned cold, and his eyes pierced Judith with a sharp glare. "Miss,what exactly are you implying? We're discussing business and appreciating Ms. Brooks's exceptional professional capabilities. How did this turn into something inappropriate in your mind?"

Griffin didn't give Judith a chance to defend herself, continuing in a cold voice, "Or perhaps in your view, a woman can only achieve success through questionable methods? Is that it?"

Judith's face flushed bright red. She never imagined that Griffin,who had just been apologizing to Ella, would publicly humiliate her like this!

Her eyes welled with tears as she looked helplessly at Austin beside her,her voice breaking. "Austin."

But Austin's gaze remained fixed on the composed and dignified Ella. His dark eyes churned with emotions no one could decipher.

Austin's expression had darkened to a storm cloud.

Ella maintained a graceful smile, as if she had been born to stand in such a spotlight, receiving everyone's admiration.

This Ella was completely different from the woman he remembered-the

one who used to follow him around, looking up at him with adoration,

begging him with tears not to leave.

Judith's crying plea sounded like a jarring noise in his ears. For the first time, he didn't immediately comfort her.

Griffin didn't care about the couple's emotional drama. His eyes now saw only Ella-a savior who could solve his urgent problem.

"Ms. Brooks, regarding the algorithm optimization for Time Warp Express,could we find a place to discuss the details now?" Griffin's attitude was eager and even somewhat deferential.

Ella smiled slightly, setting down her glass wit casual elegance.

"There's no rush. Today's guest of honor is Mr. Thornton. Business matters can wait until tomorrow. I'll bring my technical team and provide you with a detailed solution then."

Her response showed respect for Derek while demonstrating her professionalism and confidence-flawless in every way.

Derek's admiration was evident as he stood and raised his glass.

"Since Ms. Brooks has spoken, let's end it here today. Consider this both a celebration for me and for Ms. Brooks, and a toast to her successful partnership with Griffin."

He had effectively redefined the purpose of the dinner, turning Austinand Judith's intrusion into an insignificant interruption.

Austin stepped forward,seemingly about to say something.

But Ella didn't even glance at him as she turned and nodded to Derek.

"Thank you for the dinner, Mr. Thornton. I have another engagement, so l'Il be leaving now."

She picked up her clutch and walked directly toward the door,her movements decisive and without a trace of hesitation.

As she passed by Austin, she didn't give him even the slightest glance from the corner of her eye.

This complete dismissal stung Austin more than any harsh words could have.

He watched Ella's figure disappear through the doorway,feeling an unprecedented frustration and loss of control.

Judith's face flushed with humiliation.

The investors were now clustered around Griffin, excitedly discussing logistics algorithms, and no one spared her a second glance.

Everything she had carefully orchestrated had been effortlessly destroyed by Ella!

"Austin,should we..."

Judith had barely opened her mouth when Austin cut her off with an icy voice.

"Let's go."

He said and left the private room without looking back, leaving Judith and Paul standing awkwardly behind.