In that moment, Ariana escaped Jayson's notice, but the staff member intercepted him with a deferential grin and a bow.

"Hello, Mr. Spears,” the staffer greeted him. He gestured towards Ariana, his finger pointing in her direction.

"Someone overseeing a recently established contracting agency is causing a bit of a stir," he disclosed, his tone laced with amusement.

“She's attempting to jump the queue using a stolen invitation."

Jayson's face contorted into a frown, an expression that didn't escape the notice of the staffer. Seeking to clarify, he added, “Our event's invitation list has undergone meticulous rounds of scrutiny and inquiry. We don't extend invitations to fledgling entities Looking to lower our standards.”

Jayson's scowl deepened, his attention shifting towards the thin woman who had clearly caught his eye with her smirk.

Momentarily taken aback, Jayson's surprise was soon replaced by recognition as he realized it was Ariana. His astonishment was palpable, the frown melting away as he strode over to embrace her warmly.

“It's truly you! Remarkable. It's been five long years since I last heard from you," Jayson exclaimed, his voice laced with surprise.

“Much has transpired over the past few years," Ariana replied, reciprocating his embrace with a heartfelt hug.

Their hug bore the traces of respect and camaraderie. Encountering each other here was a delightful twist of fate neither had anticipated. Jayson's satisfaction was evident as he reminisced, "That film achieved tremendous success in its time. Yet, my attempts to reconcile accounts with you bore no fruit. Nevertheless, I held onto the funds, awaiting your eventual return.”

Ariana's emotions were a blend of conflicting sentiments as she absorbed his words.

The car accident had heralded a series of tumultuous events, casting a pall over her life. The weight of responsibilities had drained her, and she had gradually distanced herself from her closest companions. The continuity of their friendship across five years was a sentiment she had not dared to hope for.

She had a lot to say to her old friend, but this was not the place for catching up due to the presence of others.

Ariana shifted her mood and glanced around, eventually focusing her gaze on the staffer. With a playful smile, she addressed him, "Mr. Spears, it seems you're in command here. Could you perhaps help me with the current issue?"

Only then did Jayson recall the events that had transpired. His brows knitted in a frown as he turned to the staffer, his words snapping out, “What on earth is going on?"

The man shrunk his neck Like a quail, avoiding their gaze and remaining mute.

Never had he considered that this unassuming woman would recognize Jayson, who held a repertoire of significant awards in the movie industry.

Jayson, the program's overseer and his boss, held far more importance than the company representative he had regarded with respect earlier.

At this moment, the staffer felt regretful, at a loss for words.

As he remained silent, Ariana continued, “Allow me to explain. He contended that my invitation didn't come through in a respectable manner, despite my patient wait in line to submit the paperwork. Not only that, he also attended to those who arrived after me. Unfortunately, I cannot spare time to stand in line again today, given my rush."