M''s eyes were fixed on the elderly woman approaching,pletely missing Rnd''s question.


    The elderly woman, exuding a strong presence, had also noticed themotion on M''s side.


    She paused, whispered a few words to someone beside her, and soon the throng of journalists was gently restrained by her staff, preventing any further


    photography.


    Though puzzled, the crowd respected the elderly woman''s status and dared not approach.


    Breaking free from the crowd, the woman strode purposefully towards M.


    M hurried to meet her, her eyes shining with a mix of excitement and a touch of nervousness, as if near home but hesitant to call out.


    The woman came closer, gently removed her sunsses, and studied her grand- niece intently. After a long moment, she frowned slightly, reached out, and tousled M''s hair with a mixture of disapproval and subtle affection.


    "Why are you so thin? How has he been taking care of you?"


    Feeling the warmth of a long-missed touch, M''s eyes stung with unshed tears. She fought to keep herposure as she choked out, "Aunt Jade."


    Just those two words, and she couldn''t say more.


    She feared that if she spoke again, she might break down right there. It had been so long since shest saw Aunt Jade, and the overwhelming emotions and longing choked her with a bittersweet ache.


    Aunt Jade understood her grand-niece all too well.


    Seeing M like this, she knew the past years hadn''t been kind to her. With a sigh, she patted M''s head, "Let''s talk in the car."


    M nodded, ready to leave with her aunt, when Rnd approached.


    Masking his surprise, he extended a courteous hand to the woman, "Mrs. Suthend, it''s an honor. I''m Rnd, the eldest of the Lockwood family. My parents often speak of you. I returned from abroad earlier this year and haven''t found the opportunity to visit you yet."


    Jade Suthend''s demeanor turned cooler with strangers. She gave Rnd a brief nod, "I know of you. An impressive young talent. You''ve been quite active overseas. Why the sudden return?"


    Rnd smiled, deflecting the question, "The environment here needs me more."


    After a few polite exchanges, Rnd stepped aside, "I won''t keep you, Mrs. Suthend. I hope to visit you soon."


    Jade offered no response, simply guiding M away.


    Rnd watched the aunt and niece depart, his gaze thoughtful. He was well aware of the elderly woman''s identity.


    Jade Suthend was a legend in elite circles.


    Not only was she an internationally renowned fashion designer, her creations coveted by the elite, but she was also the founder of Splendid, one of the world''s top luxury brands, with immense resources and an illustrious background.


    Her influence abroad was considerable, with connections among the upper echelons and royalty, and a reputation for her formidable skills.


    The Lockwood family''s overseas enterprises often required the very connections Jademanded.


    Rnd had tried multiple times to arrange a meeting while abroad, only to be declined. Unexpectedly crossing paths today, and discovering her link to M, was indeed an unexpected delight.


    Rnd chuckled softly, "Things just got interesting."


    "Aunt Jade, where to?"


    Once in the car, M settled into the driver''s seat, cautiously ncing at the


    woman beside her in the passenger seat.