A week later, Claire was gearing up for Venus AMD's press release and exhibition. She and Matthew were in the back seat of her car, her fingers drumming a light rhythm on the seat, eyes glinting with a mix of mischief and curiosity.

"So," Matthew asked, raising an eyebrow, "what are you expecting from today's show?"

Claire's lips curled into a smirk. "Honestly? I'm curious to see what Frank has cooked up this time. He's been going on and on about how Venus AMD is better than Metacortex."

Matthew chuckled, shaking his head. "You mean, he's been talking at everyone who'll listen. The guy's got an ego the size of this city. Think he will live up to his own hype?"

Claire let out a light laugh, looking amused. "Knowing Frank, he's either going to pull off something impressive... or crash and burn spectacularly."

"Wouldn't that be something?" Matthew grinned. "At least if he fails, his press release can join the list of disastrous PR events."

"And I am not the only one who's press release got ruin."

The two shared a chuckle, already imagining the possible mishaps waiting to unfold.

Meanwhile, at the venue, Frank was pacing backstage, exuding confidence-or, at least, trying to. He inspected the scene, eyes darting around to make sure everything was in order. His pride and joy-a state-of-the-art robot designed to make everyone forget about Metacortex-stood tall at center stage, surrounded by the tech team making last-minute tweaks. One of the techies nudged his colleague. "Think it'll hold up?"

The other tech shrugged, keeping his voice low. "Who knows? We've done our best, but that thing's about as stable as a deck of cards in a windstorm."

A third tech, overhearing, muttered under his breath, "Honestly, who cares? Frank's the worst CEO I've ever worked for. If it flops, maybe he'll take the hint."

Before they could go further, their team leader walked up, catching sight of Frank's intense gaze. With a forced smile, he approached Frank.

"Everything's set, sir," he said, with a hint of hesitation. "We're just... you know, doing some final touch-ups. Making sure there won't be any, uh... glitches."

Frank nodded, patting the leader on the back with a firm, almost crushing grip. "Good. Because if this goes well, there's a bonus in it for you," he said, his tone cool. "But if it doesn't? Kiss your career goodbye."

The leader's face paled slightly, but he forced a smile and nodded. "Yes, sir. We'll make sure it goes perfectly."

Frank finally released him, and as he walked away, the leader took a deep breath. "Perfectly, he says," he whispered to himself, exchanging a look of mild dread with his team.

Outside the venue, a buzz of excitement filled the air as cameras flashed and journalists crowded around, eager for a glimpse of the guests arriving. The doors opened, and Claire stepped out of the car, dressed in a sharp black suit that radiated confidence, power, and authority. The cameras flashed furiously as she gave the crowd a brief but graceful smile, acknowledging them with a slight nod.

Matthew exited behind her, keeping a watchful eye, ready to handle any unwelcome surprises. As they moved toward the entrance, a journalist pushed forward, eager for a quick quote.noveldrama

"Claire! What are your expectations for tonight's press release?" the reporter called, managing to capture Claire's attention.

Claire chuckled lightly. "Oh, I'm just here to see what Frank's come up with. Wishing him the best, of course," she said, her eyes glinting with amusement.

Another journalist shouted, "Do you think Venus AMD can actually compete with Metacortex?"

Claire smirked, giving the reporter a sideways look. "Let's just say Frank certainly seems to think so."

The crowd laughed, but before she could slip away, another question came from the back, catching her off guard. "Claire, is it true you were called into the police station yesterday?" Claire's face grew colder, though she kept her expression neutral. "I was, yes," she replied smoothly.

Another reporter immediately jumped in. "Why do you always seem to get caught up in these situations, Claire? Care to comment?"

Claire took a breath, keeping her composure, though there was a flicker of irritation in her gaze. "Sometimes things just happen, and I follow the proper protocols. Now, if you'll excuse me." She turned away, ending the conversation, though the journalists were clearly eager to ask more.

Matthew stepped in beside her as they moved toward the venue doors. "Handled that well," he murmured.

She gave him a slight nod, the hint of a smirk returning. "They'll dig as much as I let them. Now, let's go see Frank's masterpiece."

Inside, Frank stood near the stage,

hands clasped behind his back as he

scanned the crowd. Seeing Claire

enter, he tried to suppress a frown keeping his focus on the stage. This was his day, and he wasn't going to let anything distract him. He gestured to his assistant, who hurried over, practically stumbling in their eagerness.

"Are we ready?" Frank asked, his voice low but sharp.

The assistant nodded nervously. "Yes, sir. The robot is all set, and the tech team is just giving it a final once-over."

"Good. Just remember," Frank said, giving a small, satisfied smile, "if this goes well, you're all in for a treat. But if anything goes wrong... well, let's hope it doesn't."

The assistant gulped, nodding a little too eagerly. "Understood, sir."

Frank watched the assistant scurry off, a smug grin forming on his face. Everything was under control. Or so he thought.

Claire and Matthew found their seats among the guests, with an unobstructed view of the stage. She leaned over to Matthew, her eyes twinkling mischievously. "So, how much are we betting that this thing malfunctions within the first ten minutes?" Matthew grinned, tapping his chin thoughtfully. "I'd give it five, tops. Frank's ego might be overcompensating for something. Let's see if his team can keep up."

A hush fell over the crowd as the

lights dimmed, and Frank stepped up to the podium. He beamed, clearly refishing every second as he introduced Venus AMD's latest marvel the robot standing proudly behind him. The audience watched as the curtains lifted, revealing the gleaming machine.

"Ladies and gentlemen, I present to you the pinnacle of Venus AMD's innovation!" Frank announced, voice booming with confidence. "This robot is designed to surpass any technology Metacortex has produced, revolutionizing the industry and changing lives!" Claire raised an eyebrow at Matthew, who snorted quietly. "Did he just say, 'changing lives'?" Matthew whispered.

"He did. You know how Frank is. He loves to exaggerate things." Claire replied, a slight smile tugging at her lips. "High stakes for a glorified gadget."

"Before I present to you all, what Venus AMD robot can do, I will explain to you what our robot can really do and it's better than all of you thought it would be," Frank says proudly as he speaks with much confidence.

Claire leaned towards Matthew and whispered. "This is going to be fun."

Matthew chuckled lightly. "Imagine him 'glorifying' his robot but it didn't end well."

"It will look good on the tabloids tomorrow." She smiled as she stared at the stage.

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