Noelle's words hung in the air, leaving everyone with a complicated expression. She met Cedric's gaze, her courage hard-won. His lips were thin, pressed together, his hand clenching slowly at his side – a flicker of hesitation. He’d never feared anything, yet her meaning eluded him.

Frank exploded. "Noelle, what do you mean, 'no need'? I think it's very necessary! I don't want you involved with Cedric." He glared at Cedric, ready to confront him if he sensed ulterior motives.

Noelle remained calm. "Frank, stop matchmaking. You weren't this nosy before. Someone as accomplished as Mr. Greene doesn't need your introductions."

Frank mumbled, "Alright. I was just concerned, he's your friend." Alfred scoffed inwardly; it was clearly a test. Cedric, however, played along. It suited his purposes.

Frank returned to his seat. "Noelle and I had a disagreement. I'm grateful you looked after her, Mr. Greene."

"You're welcome," Cedric replied, pouring himself a drink. He rarely drank, but he needed it now. His gaze drifted to Noelle, her pale skin and calm demeanor oddly unsettling. He quickly looked away, a restless energy prickling him.

The dinner proceeded in near silence. Only the main group dared to speak, the rest relegated to drinking as instructed.

Noelle left the private room, her thoughts a whirlwind. Frank trailed behind, falling into step with Cedric. "My treat," he announced smoothly, "and thank you again for helping Noelle."

Cedric walked with a deliberate ease. "If she's important to you, don't hurt her."

"Noelle's my sister! I'd never hurt her."

Cedric’s gaze was icy. "Yet you're the one most likely to. You know that."

Frank bristled. "But you have no right! Who do you think you are?"

Cedric's throat tightened. "A friend."

Noelle heard him, forcing a smile that didn't reach her eyes. A friend. She quickened her pace down the stairs, her mind in turmoil. The wind outside was a welcome shock.

"Noelle, come home with me," Frank pleaded, his eyes earnest. "I promise, I'll change."

From the corner of her eye, she saw Cedric approaching – tall, steady, his presence filling the night. Her heart pounded.

Alfred’s car door opened. "Nelly, get in. Let's go."

Noelle turned, walked towards the car. Frank watched, a silent plea in his eyes. "Noelle..."