Chapter 132

Rain began to fall. Inside the Emperor Hotel, the party atmosphere remained lively, unaffected by the earlier commotion. Tina, looking like a princess, was surrounded by admirers, though most didn't interest her. Only a few distinguished guests were worthy of her conversation.

A butler approached. "Miss, Mr. Williams and Mr. Chapman have arrived."

Tina turned to see two handsome men standing quietly at the entrance: Oliver from Boulderthorn, and his senior, Troy Chapman. Two bodyguards stood behind them.

"Mr. Williams, Mr. Chapman. It's good to see you again," Tina greeted them warmly, smiling.

"Happy birthday, Ms. Hummer," Oliver and Troy offered their gifts.

"Oh, please. It's my honor to have you both. There's no need for presents," Tina grinned.

Oliver smiled. "It's only proper to reciprocate Joshua's kindness. He's always treated us well. A small token of appreciation is nothing."

Had they been from an ordinary wealthy family, Tina wouldn't have given them a second glance. However, her brother, Joshua, was a senior disciple of Boulderthorn, making it necessary for her to be attentive.

"Oh, right, where's my brother today?" Tina asked.

"Joshua is on retreat and unable to leave, so he sent us," Oliver explained.

"I see," Tina nodded, extending her hand. "Please have a seat. Let me know if you need anything."

"Thank you, Ms. Hummer," Oliver replied, sitting down beside Troy.

Tina's warm welcome drew the attention of the surrounding guests. Whispers rippled through the crowd. "Who are they? Why did Tina personally greet them?" "I don't know. They seem unfamiliar; I don't think they're from Swinton." "Perhaps they're important people from Millsburg?"

As the evening progressed, more guests arrived, and the atmosphere grew increasingly lively.

Chapter 132 (Continued)

A black silhouette approached the Emperor Hotel entrance, umbrella in hand. Two guards stopped him.

"Stop! This is Ms. Hummer's birthday. Only invited guests are allowed entry!"

"Step aside!" Dustin declared, immediately heading inside.

"Scoundrel!" The guards grabbed his shoulders. Instantly, they were hurled backward, their cries echoing through the night.

"Quick! Inform Sir Zims!" One guard called for backup. By the time he looked back, Dustin had passed through the gates.

After a brief elevator ride, he entered the ballroom. Surveying the lively crowd, he took a deep breath and shouted, "Which one of you is Tina Hummer?!"

His voice, though not piercing, resonated across the room. The lively chatter instantly ceased. Everyone turned, their expressions displeased. "Who dared to call Ms. Hummer by her name?" they wondered.

"Hm? Who's calling me?" Tina rose slowly, displeasure in her eyes.

Dustin walked forward, all eyes on him. "Hey, isn't that Dahlia's ex-husband? Why is he here?" "I guess he's here to apologize. Stealing from Ms. Hummer isn't a small matter." "Apologizing after his woman got beaten up? How shameful!" Murmurs and mocking laughter arose.

"What? Are you here to apologize for that bitch?" Tina scanned him, a sinister smile curving her lips. "If you're interested in helping your friend, get down on your knees. And if I'm pleased, maybe I'll let her off the hook."

"So, you were the one who injured Dahlia?" Dustin approached her slowly, stopping before her.

"So what if I was? That bitch didn't know her limits. A slut like her deserved a beating!" Tina laughed coldly. "And let me tell you, this matter is far from over. Today was just a warning. I'll pay it back bit by bit! I will be her nightmare for the rest of her life!"

Chapter 132 (Continued)

A sharp sound cut through the room: "Smack!"

Tina flew across the room, tumbling before crashing to the ground with a sickening thud. Blood flowed from her nose; her teeth scattered around her. The room fell silent in stunned disbelief. No one expected Dustin to hit her, let alone slap her in front of such a crowd. Everyone knew she was Edwin Hummer's daughter, Swinton's belle. "Had he lost his mind?! How dare he lay a finger on Miss Hummer? Does he not treasure his life?!" everyone thought.

"You—you dare hit me?" Tina, clutching her burning cheek, stood unsteadily. Shock and confusion filled her face. No one had ever dared disrespect her, let alone slap her.

"Smack!"

He slapped her again, with full force. Blood spurted from her mouth. Her once-pretty face was disfigured, her teeth shattered, her features swollen and reddened. Her hair was a chaotic mess.

"I'll make you pay ten times the pain you inflicted on Dahlia!" Dustin roared. His actions were impulsive and reckless.

"Boom!" The party descended into chaos. The first slap was impulsive; the second, humiliating and provocative. But who in their right mind would provoke the Hummers?