With the situation so clearly defined, Richard's continued self-absorption could only further humiliate him. His dignity had already been shattered when Wyatt and Simon simultaneously declared their absence from his apprenticeship ceremony. Richard remained silent, but his trembling hands betrayed his turmoil and anger.

The crowd watched as Richard, furious yet maintaining a strained smile, stood beside a visibly embarrassed Winona, unsure of how to react. Whispers rippled through the onlookers: "If these important figures aren't here for Winona's ceremony, what could it be? Could it possibly be for Ms. Zeller's welcome home party? That would be absurd!"

Simon, unconcerned with Richard's display, sought only one person. His gaze swept the garden until he found Yvette, enjoying dessert in a secluded corner with another girl.

Wyatt, too, spotted Yvette, a flicker of admiration in his eyes. He recalled their brief encounter at a steakhouse; her beauty, cold demeanor, and rebellious spirit, so unlike other society women, had captivated him. He thought, No wonder Jeremiah treats her so differently. Such stunning beauty—unmatched among Betrico's nobility.

Having found his target, Simon dispensed with pleasantries, briefly acknowledging Wyatt and Zachary before approaching Yvette.

Winona, who had remained silent, saw Simon departing. A sudden idea striking her, she stepped forward, her voice pleading, "We've prepared seats for you and the mayor at the head table. Please, join me."

Zachary frowned subtly, but Wyatt remained silent, his expression darkening. He muttered, "Winona's playing a game, trying to publicly guilt Simon."

Simon paused, glancing at the dejected Winona. His voice, old and cold, responded, "Congratulations, Winona. But I won't be sitting at the head table." He brushed past her, leaving her flushed with embarrassment, and approached Yvette. "Finally found you."

Yvette languidly raised her head, her casual demeanor belying the gleam in her beautiful eyes. Her rebellious air remained, unconcealed even by her gown. "Hello," she replied politely.

Simon, cheerfully ignoring the curious stares, sat beside Yvette, engaging her in conversation. The scene was shocking; yet, the pair seemed oblivious to its impropriety. Murmurs filled the air: "Is this the same serious Simon of Argrol University? Unbelievable!"

Winona ground her teeth, her expression hardening. Enduring the curious glances, she turned to Wyatt. "Mr. Langford, would you like to…"

Before she could finish, Wyatt interrupted, anticipating her request. "Ms. Chambers, I'm here for Ms. Zeller. I won't steal the spotlight. Please, allow Mr. Griffin the head seat."

Again, shock rippled through the crowd. "Are both these men here for Ms. Zeller?" The garden buzzed with excitement.

Overwhelmed, Winona stumbled back, her hands trembling. Wyatt addressed Yvette with respect, his tone, attitude, and kind expression placing her on an equal footing: "How have you been, Ms. Zeller?"

Wyatt, unaware of the speculation, would have said, if he knew their thoughts, You're overthinking it. Why would I consider myself on par with the woman Jeremiah desires?

Yvette responded with the same casual indifference she’d shown Simon. The contrasting treatment was stark. Wow, she really is something! I wish I could be so nonchalant!

Wyatt, seemingly unperturbed, sat near Yvette, transforming the previously empty corner into the garden's focal point. He appeared distracted. Is he coming or not?

Zachary sighed, realizing he needed to intervene. Nellie invited Richard to the head table and, noticing the thinning crowd, led Winona aside, followed by Victor. Sienna, curious, chose not to inquire. It's not surprising who the boss knows!

From a distance, Robert observed Yvette, his expression dark and suspicious. Turning to a stunned Yulia, he asked, "Did Yvette make a fuss when you called off the engagement?"

Yulia, watching Yvette converse with Simon and Wyatt, shook her head. "No, she… she was very straightforward. And… she didn't seem upset at all. I think Yvette…" She hesitated.

Glancing at Robert's grim face, she continued cautiously, "Yvette didn't seem to care about the engagement with Victor."

Robert clenched his teeth. Maybe Yvette just accidentally got close to them. Otherwise, what a reckless decision I made!

Meanwhile, Wyatt, restless, checked his phone. The ringtone broke the silence; he answered immediately. The person I've been waiting for has arrived. He stood and left.

His abrupt departure drew attention. Why is he leaving so suddenly?

Exiting, Wyatt saw his secretary ushering in Jeremiah. Jeremiah, in a black shirt, possessed sharp brows, starry eyes, and a prominent Adam's apple. His dark, cold eyes narrowed, his calm demeanor terrifying. He moved with casual authority.

Wyatt approached him, bowing respectfully. "Master Jeremiah."

The single word "Master" revealed Jeremiah's formidable status. What power compels Mr. Langford to address him as "Master"?

Jeremiah nodded curtly. "Yes." A collective gasp arose. Who is this powerful man?

Jeremiah scanned the crowd, his gaze settling on Yvette. A smile, captivating in its intensity, spread across his lips.