Chapter 42

"Huh?" Dakota stared at the battered Caspian, clearly surprised and still processing the events.

"Do you want to forgive him, Dakota?" Cameron asked.

Timothy shuddered. His fate rested entirely with Ms. Jennings. He quickly apologized. "Ms. Jennings, I'm truly sorry. I failed to properly discipline my subordinate. I will do so immediately!"

Sweat soaked his shirt. He avoided Cameron's gaze, fearing his wrath and a subsequent banishment from Yrando. He vividly remembered the terror of the Midlands battlefield ten years prior. He couldn't comprehend the Dark Lord's presence in Yrando and dared not inquire further.

The unfolding scene astonished the onlookers, including Madison and her friends. Timothy's henchmen were equally baffled by their boss's uncharacteristic behavior. When had their usually domineering boss become so… righteous?

Dakota, recovering from her surprise, replied, "It's okay, Mr. Dashner." She hadn't expected a personal apology.

Timothy anxiously awaited Cameron's response. Seeing Dakota's forgiveness, Cameron let the matter drop.

Relief washed over Timothy. He quickly kicked Caspian aside—the man was in the way. He surveyed the room, littered with bottles and cake. Knowing the Dark Lord's friend was celebrating a birthday, he hastily attempted damage control.

"My apologies, everyone. I apologize on behalf of my subordinate for the inconvenience." He continued, "To make amends, I'll cover your expenses today. As compensation, I'll arrange another birthday banquet for you tomorrow at the Caesar Hotel, Room 8008. Caspian and I will personally attend."

"Really, Mr. Dashner?" Madison exclaimed, her voice filled with excited disbelief. This was unexpected.

Timothy asked, "Who are you?"

"I'm Madison, Mr. Dashner. It's my birthday," she replied.

"Ah, Ms. Parker," Timothy said, more politely, assuming she was a friend of Cameron's.

"Mr. Dashner, are you really going to celebrate my birthday tomorrow?"

"Of course, it's the least I can do."

"Thank you, Mr. Dashner."

"Don't mention it, Ms. Parker."

"Well, I have some urgent matters to attend to. I'll take my leave."

"No problem, Mr. Dashner. Please go ahead."

"Alright."

Timothy nodded, adjusted his oversized suit, and authoritatively addressed his subordinates: "Let's go."

He slowly exited the private room, inwardly panicking, fearing he might urinate himself. Out of sight, he quickly disappeared down the corridor, as if fearing the Dark Lord's change of heart.

Once Timothy and his men were gone, the girls recovered from their shock. They stared at each other, incredulous. Not only had Timothy apologized, but he'd also promised a birthday banquet at the Caesar Hotel—and his personal attendance.

What had happened? Could it have been Dakota's boyfriend? The girls exchanged knowing glances at Cameron.

(Note: I removed the repeated promotional text.)