Joseph’s face fell at her rejection; his tone became insistent. “I think you’ve misunderstood my intentions. I don’t mean that kind of friendship.”

Roxanne frowned, confused.

Joseph smirked mysteriously. “One night should be enough for us to get acquainted.”

His intentions were clear.

Roxanne was momentarily stunned, but quickly grasped his meaning. Her expression turned frosty. “I’m not interested. Please leave me alone; I need some time to myself.” Joseph scowled at her second refusal.

The crowded banquet hall prevented any immediate action. He straightened, lifting his wineglass. With a threatening tone, he said, “If that’s the case, surely you won’t refuse this toast?”

Roxanne appeared hesitant. Joseph’s reputation as a notorious playboy made her wary.

Sensing her apprehension, he mocked, “Relax. There are plenty of people here. I wouldn’t do anything to you. I don’t force women.”

Roxanne, still frowning, clinked glasses with him, taking a sip out of politeness.

Joseph shot her a dangerous glance before returning to the crowd. Roxanne breathed a secret sigh of relief as he left.

He was immediately surrounded by a group of playboys. “Aw, there are still women who resist Mr. Cadman’s charms, eh? Who is she? Why so arrogant?”

Joseph glared.

Someone interjected, “I heard she came with Mr. Farwell of Horington. We’d better not mess with her.”

Joseph smacked the speaker’s head. “Mr. Farwell is engaged. Why would he be with her? Besides, even if they arrived together, Mr. Ziegler brought her to socialize. That proves she has nothing special with Mr. Farwell.”

The speaker hesitated, then nodded.

“What are you planning then? She’s ignored you,” someone asked.

Joseph downed his drink. “She’d better not leave this banquet hall. I, Joseph Cadman, never let my target escape so easily.” The others nodded in agreement.

Unaware of the impending danger, Roxanne, feeling the effects of earlier drinks with Jasper, stood to use the washroom.

Seeing her leave, Joseph and the other playboys followed discreetly.

Roxanne, oblivious, entered the washroom. Upon exiting, she was blocked by several playboys.

Slightly taken aback, she found Joseph striding toward her, smiling casually. “What a coincidence, Ms. Jarvis.”

Roxanne frowned, eyeing them warily. “Mr. Cadman, I’m Mr. Ziegler’s guest. Please be mindful of your actions.”

Joseph raised an eyebrow. “I know, but so what? Mr. Ziegler isn’t here. I dare you to get him. He’ll be here if you do.” Roxanne, unable to summon Mr. Ziegler, silently stepped back, trying to create distance.