“You said it yourself. They're unaware. And enlightening them would be as effective as talking to a brick wall. Why waste our energy on fleeting gratification?" Raegan responded with a tranquility that belied the situation.

"True success is measured through deeds, not debate," she continued, the positive reception to their work speaking volumes more than any rebuttal could.

Acknowledging both the accolades and the criticisms was part of the journey. Dwelling on every negative comment could distract from one's vision and creativity.

Raegan noticed Judd still on his feet and urged him, “Please sit down and eat quickly. We have to be at the venue later."

Judd, once accustomed to Erick's demanding pace, found Raegan's composed demeanor a stark contrast.

Influenced by her serenity, he settled down to eat, albeit with a frown as the neighboring table's gossip grew more audacious.

"Doesn't this upset you at all?" Judd couldn't help but ask again.

Raegan replied, unfazed, “It's inconsequential. Ignoring them spares me the irritation." Her confidence was rooted in her skills, rendering the rumors powerless.

After tidying up the lunch box, Raegan told Judd, “Make sure you finish eating before you join me. I'll head out ahead."

With her head raised, Raegan strode past the nearby dining table.

Those seated nearby were taken aback, having not realized the focus of their gossip was within earshot. A wave of embarrassment swept over them. If Raegan had been Leveraging connections for her success, she wouldn't be dining in the public Lounge instead of a private one, away from prying eyes.

One of the main instigators of the gossip couldn't help but scoff.

"She's just putting on a show, trying to make it seem like she's not involved with our CEO..."

Her words were cut short as several individuals stood up from a nearby table, their attention shifting in unison. "Hello, Mr. Frazier!"

Devonte, clad in a crisp black suit, commanded the room with an authoritative presence, even without a smile.

The lounge fell silent, the atmosphere charged with tension.

The gossip, caught in her disparagement, stood up hastily, only to lose her balance and collapse back to the floor. She hurriedly stammered apologies, "I'm sorry... Mr. Frazier..."

Devonte, observing Raegan's retreating figure, concealed his frustration behind a stoic facade. Internally, he lamented the situation. Mitchel had been bombarding him daily with calls, eager to know Raegan's condition. If Mitchel caught wind of Raegan being slandered, the fallout would be immediate.

Devonte knew all too well the recklessness of those who indulge in baseless rumors today, only to pivot to the company's artists tomorrow.

Without offering a second glance to the woman crumpled on the floor, Devonte issued a command, his tone devoid of warmth, “Clean up this area."