Someone quickly shouted, "Go tell Mr. Lawson Senior!" One of the bodyguards immediately rushed off. While everyone focused on Arnold's departure, Felicia seized the opportunity, kicking off her high heels and darting away, her bright red gown trailing behind her like a flickering flame. The bodyguards yelled in frustration and gave chase.

Meanwhile, the banquet hall buzzed with activity; guests mingled and clinked glasses, eagerly awaiting the appearance of the main couple. But soon, a bodyguard hurried in, whispering to Matthew. A subtle ripple of unrest momentarily disturbed the event's calm surface, then quickly subsided.

On the top floor, Stephan stood by a massive floor-to-ceiling window. His dark eyes calmly surveyed the scene below. The room was dim, lit only by moonlight, casting long, inky shadows. The lights suddenly flickered on.

Mike entered, curious. "Mr. Russell, why were the lights off? What are you looking at?"

Stephan glanced at him. Mike rushed to the window, seeing Arnold speeding away from the parking lot.

"No way! The engagement banquet's started, and he's leaving his fiancée?" Mike exclaimed, his disbelief evident. He knew Matthew's fury would be considerable. Several bodyguards immediately received orders to pursue Arnold.

Stephan said quietly, "Your nephew is quite the handful."

Mike sighed. "Right. I have a feeling the Lawson family is in for quite a spectacle..."

Stephen nodded. "I'm glad you were aware."

Mike, surprised by Stephan's directness, raised an eyebrow. Just then, he spotted a small white porcelain bottle on the table. He picked it up, curious. "Mr. Russell, this doesn't match your usual style. What's this?"

Before Mike could uncork it, Stephan snatched the bottle. "It's just scar-removal ointment. Someone gave it to me."

Mike, narrowing his eyes, pressed, "Who gave it to you?"

"No way. It's from Felicia, right?"

Stephen chuckled lightly, neither confirming nor denying.

"Looks like I guessed right," Mike smirked. "Mr. Russell, she's concerned about your injury and even gave you this ointment. Why don't you lend a hand and help her this time?" His implication regarding Felicia's forced marriage was clear.

Stephen replied coolly, "Do I look like the kind of person who'd do that?"

"Not at all," Mike replied firmly. He added, "Not only are you not a good person, but sometimes you can be downright heartless."

Stephen leaned back on the couch, crossing his legs. His relaxed posture exuded charm, his eyes glinting mischievously. "Besides," he said, "she hasn't asked me for help."