As the clock struck 8 AM, the resort began to stir with life.

    Guests who had stayed overnight emerged from their villas, stretching and shaking off the remnants of sleep.

    The ones who had purchased regular tickets had been given access to the standard villa rooms, which, while luxurious, resembled high-end hotel suites.

    Meanwhile, the VIP guests had received special treatment, housed in exclusive, private accommodations designed for utmost comfort and luxury.

    Now, as the morning sun bathed Atlas in a golden glow, the guests began making their way back into the main resort.

    Some walked leisurely, chatting amongst themselves, while others, particularly first-time visitors, looked around in awe, eager to experience what the resort had to offer.

    At the front gates, a fresh wave of guests arrived — some were new customers who had heard of Atlas through social media, and others were returning visitors, thrilled by their experience the previous day.

    The guards remained professional but welcoming, greeting each person with polite nods as they checked their virtual tickets and verified their entry.

    Among the crowd making their way into the resort, a familiar group approached the entrance.

    The Grey family.

    Zack''s sharp eyes caught the sight of them before anyone else.

    A smirk tugged at the corners of his lips as he lowered his phone and stepped forward. Ethan''s father, Harold Grey, walked in his usual confident stride, his authoritative presence as unwavering as ever.

    Dressed in an expensive yet casual outfit, he exuded the aura of a man who had seen and conquered much in life.

    Beside him was Ethan''s mother, Margaret, whose elegance was as effortless as ever. She had a kind yet firm expression, her gaze moving over the resort with quiet approval.

    Claire, Ethan''s eighteen-year-old sister, was walking with her arms crossed, her piercing gaze scanning the area as if assessing whether it met her standards.

    Despite her composed demeanor, there was a glimmer of interest in her eyes.

    And then there was Julia, the youngest of the family, just seven years old. Unlike her older siblings, she showed no restraint in expressing her excitement.

    Her eyes sparkled as she clutched onto her mother''s hand, bouncing on her feet.

    Zack stepped forward, waving at them with a bright smile. "Welcome to Atlas, Mr. and Mrs. Grey. I see you brought the whole family today."

    Harold gave a slight nod of acknowledgment. "Had to see what all the fuss was about." His voice was deep and commanding, though not unfriendly.

    His sharp gaze scanned the entrance, taking in the resort''s grandeur. "Ethan''s been working hard on this, so it was about time we paid a visit."

    His phone buzzed again, another message from Zack.

    [Hurry up, man. You''ll regret making them wait.]

    Frowning, Ethan pulled his feet off the table, stretched his arms, and stood up. With a few quick strides, he left the office and headed toward the main resort.

    As he walked through the halls, he nodded at the staff members, acknowledging their hard work.

    As soon as he stepped into the VIP section, his steps faltered.

    His family sat there.

    For a brief moment, he just stared.

    Julia was the first to notice him. Her face lit up as she jumped out of her seat and ran straight toward him.

    "Big brother!"

    Ethan barely had time to react before his youngest sister leaped into his arms. He instinctively caught her, a chuckle escaping him.

    "Whoa there, Jules." He held her up effortlessly. "Didn''t expect to see you here."

    Julia grinned. "Surprise!"

    Claire, arms crossed, smirked. "You look shocked."

    Ethan finally composed himself, setting Julia down. His gaze shifted to his parents, who were watching him with expectant expressions.

    Margaret was the first to speak. "We thought it was time we saw what you''ve built."

    Harold added, "And we have to admit — it''s impressive."

    For a moment, Ethan didn''t know what to say.

    Seeing them here, acknowledging his hard work... it meant something.

    Finally, he scoffed and crossed his arms. "Well, you better enjoy it. Atlas is just getting started."

    Harold gave a rare smile. "That''s what I like to hear."

    Zack, watching the scene unfold, leaned against a nearby railing with satisfaction.

    ''Mission accomplished.''