"Don't worry."

With a gentle nudge, Mitchel guided her to the front of the waiter, brandishing the electronic invitation. With warmth and grace, they were ushered inside.

However, Ariana found herself mistaken for Mitchel's spouse.

“Welcome, Mr. and Mrs. Chadwick!"

Ariana rubbed her forehead, about to set the record straight. But Mitchel interjected, “She's under my care, merely accompanying me."

The waiter cast a sympathetic glance at her legs, his face transforming with an instant surge of pity that left Ariana both speechless and amused.

The hall was not teeming with attendees, but those present were distinguished figures whose names were synonymous with influence and could only be watched on TV.

Unlike a starchy business banquet, this gathering exuded a relaxed aura.

Conversations bubbled within small clusters, fostering an air of conviviality.

Extravagant attire or pricey jewelry was not obligatory. Rather, the emphasis was on. appearing presentable and commanding respect.

For instance, Mitchel opted for a simple suit and shirt today, eschewing a tie. As he had said, this was a casual gathering where he genuinely sought to learn.

When she entered the hall, Ariana noticed that many of the attendees were drawn to Mitchel and exchanged greetings with him. He stood out as the youngest among them.

Thanks to him, Ariana was able to interact and collect business cards from the titans of industry.

Communication flowed smoothly among these cultural luminaries. Upon discovering Ariana's association with Mitchel, their countenances shifted to seriousness. They expressed curiosity about her condition, scanning her for a glimpse. Yet, upon learning it was a mere ankle injury, their sympathy overflowed.

Ariana found herself both amused and unsurprised. It seemed that geniuses could only see things related to academic issues!

During her hospital stay, she had regarded Mitchel as an ordinary doctor. But now, in this meeting, she began to comprehend that his identity was anything but ordinary.

The medical summit buzzed with the presence of industry leaders, creating a slight discomfort for someone like Ariana, who remained relatively unknown amidst the crowd.

Finding solace, she settled quietly in a corner of the hall, her wheelchair serving as her steadfast companion.

After a few minutes, Mitchel skillfully navigated through the crowd, liberating himself from the conversational shackles that bound him.

“Well, you needn't worry about me. I'll simply observe from here," Ariana assured him.