Chapter 12 Meeting the Branch Manager

• "You think you can meet the branch manager? Why aren’t the security guards throwing him out already?" asked Cathlyn.
• "This guy’s brain is broken. Earlier today at Pavilion Mall, he didn’t even have a penny and was trying to buy things."
• Everyone’s expressions turned strange, looking at Stephan as if he were a fool. The female receptionist almost burst out laughing. She had already planned to get rid of him and now gladly took the opportunity, making a gesture toward the door.
• "Sir, please leave immediately."
• Anyone who entered Pinnacle Bank was either wealthy. Even the basic accounts here required a minimum balance of one million dollars, and for regular VIPs, it went up to ten million.
• So, at that moment, everyone in the lobby glanced at Stephan with amused looks. While they were too dignified to mock him openly, they had certainly seen plenty of people who acted like he was.
• Cathlyn, gently rubbing her bandaged hand, had a cold glint in her eyes.
• Humiliating him here was just the beginning. Once he was thrown out of the bank, she would ensure that he spent the rest of his life in a wheelchair. This was the fate awaiting anyone foolish enough to cross her.
• "Did you forget your basic duties as a receptionist? Just because this card doesn’t look like a regular bank card, you’re kicking me out? You didn’t even take a moment to verify it?"
• "Well, at least you’re leaving yourself an out for your snobbish attitude." Stephan addressed the receptionist, then swiftly grabbed the strange bank card from her and walked toward a frosted glass door to the side.
• Everyone in Pinnacle Bank knew that only high-level VIPs, or even higher, could open that door. Their accounts needed to have a fixed deposit of at least one hundred million dollars.
• Seeing this, someone couldn’t help but laugh, certain that Stephan was out of his mind.
• "Stop him!" The female receptionist was stunned for a second, surprised that Stephan seemed so delusional, and quickly called the security guards over.
• "Freeze!" As the security guards rushed toward him, Cathlyn sneered. It looked like the security guards of the bank would deal with Stephan on her behalf.
• Under the watchful eyes of those waiting for a show, Stephan pressed his card against the reader next to the glass door. A moment later, with a soft beep, the door smoothly slid open.
• In an instant, the entire bank lobby fell silent. Everyone stared, slack-jawed. Some of the security guards even rubbed their eyes, thinking they were seeing things.
• It wasn’t until Stephan had stepped through that everyone finally snapped back to reality. Those sitting and waiting for service felt immense relief—thank goodness they hadn’t gotten involved. Otherwise, they’d be in deep trouble now.
• That was a card that required a balance of one hundred million dollars just in spare funds. Someone with a financial empire that massive couldn’t possibly hold a low status in Newbridge.
• The realization hit the receptionist as well, her legs almost giving way beneath her. She nearly collapsed on the spot, overcome with regret.
• Cathlyn’s shock was even more extreme. Her mouth hung open so wide that it could’ve fit an egg. As the person who had crossed paths with Stephan twice now, she was the one who couldn't believe it the most.
• When she finally regained her senses, her expression darkened, then quickly turned conflicted. Moments later, she fled the bank as fast as she could.
• To qualify as a high-level VIP at Pinnacle Bank, a person had to wield more power and influence than she could ever deal with. It was best to leave while Stephan hadn’t decided to pursue the matter further.
• Beyond the glass door, another receptionist was waiting. "Sir, please proceed to VIP Room 1."
• This receptionist, dressed in a form-fitting red outfit, was far more attractive than the ones outside. Her tight pencil skirt was as short as the industry’s standards would allow.
• Anyone who passed through those doors was a true heavyweight. These receptionists, as long as they were single and not married, were hoping to meet a wealthy bachelor. After all, marrying a rich man had nothing to do with age or looks—it was all about money.
• Especially now, with Stephan’s handsome appearance and unique aura, this receptionist was clearly delighted. But her attempts to flirt went unnoticed by him, as if she were invisible.
• If he truly wanted a woman, he could have one at the snap of his fingers.
• When they reached the VIP Room, a balding middle-aged man immediately stood up, leaving the receptionist frozen in place. "Sir, you..."
• That was unbelievable for her. No VIP had ever needed the branch manager to personally attend to them, but today it was happening.
• After closing the door, the balding man bowed respectfully. "Mr. Cullen, it is my honor to serve you. My name is Jason Reeves."
• "Here is my business card. If you ever need anything, please call me directly. You won’t need to come in person."