"I won't repeat myself," Frank snapped, his usual gentleness replaced by a steely glare. He gritted his teeth. "Have you forgotten why we're here?"
Lucas, his attempt at reconciliation with Noelle a shambles, finally quieted. Xenia, sensing the tension, intervened. "Lucas, my foot hurts. Let's go."
Lucas, offering Xenia a hand, ignored Noelle entirely. Noelle watched, disgusted by the predictable drama.
Frank swallowed hard, addressing Noelle apologetically. "I'm sorry for Lucas. I didn't expect this." His apology faltered as Lucas stubbornly demanded Noelle's apology.
"I don't accept it," Noelle said flatly.
Frank pressed on, his voice pleading. "Noelle, I understand, but please, don't sign with Firestorm. It's a treacherous industry. Starlight will support you. I've failed you, but I won't again."
"It's done," Noelle replied, her tone indifferent.
Frank's face hardened. "You decided this alone? Without the family?"
"It's my decision," she said, turning away. He watched her go, a wave of helplessness washing over him. She’d changed; she was no longer dependent on him.
The banquet continued, oblivious to the family drama. Noelle, the popular streamer, was a hit. Later, a Firestorm manager presented the contract. "Ms. Liddell, let's sign this today."
Noelle nodded. "Alright."
Frank, silently draining his wine, felt a crushing weight of frustration. Noelle, confident and brilliant on stage, was a different person entirely. She was no longer the girl who relied on him.
Later, with Rachel, Noelle laughed. "Xenia's tricks haven't changed."
Michael approached. "Ms. Liddell, may I offer you a ride?"
Before Noelle could refuse, Frank stepped in. "I'll take her home."
Michael raised an eyebrow. "Are you sure she wants that?"
"She's my sister," Frank said firmly, his words laced with an unspoken warning. "Don't get any ideas."
Noelle subtly distanced herself. "I'm fine. I don't need a ride."
Frank insisted, his tone sharper. "Noelle, we need to talk."
"There's nothing to discuss," she replied, her expression unchanged.