She moved to join them, sitting down just as a chill ran up her spine.


    Turning slightly, she caught sight of Matthew behind her, Lindsay settled at his side.


    Stes smile faded almost instantly, her expression growing distant.


    Bet noticed the shift, his brow furrowing as he leaned closer to her, his voice dropping to a low murmur.


    Did something happen between you and Matthew? On such an important day, he didnt show up with you, but brought another woman instead? Remembering the gossip he had overheard earlier stirred a flicker of disapproval in Bet.


    His eyes darkened slightly, betraying his growing dissatisfaction with Matthews behavior.


    Stes voice was soft but firm as she replied, Shes Matthews adopted sister.


    Bet still wore a frown, his expression one of clear disapproval.


    Even if shes his adopted sister, its not exactly fitting for an asion like today.


    Not wanting to let the conversation continue in front of everyone, Ste looked at Bet earnestly and said, The most important thing today is that the new productunch event goes smoothly.


    Nothing else matters.


    .. s ...


    Hearing Stes words, Bets expression softened, and a proud smile crept onto his face.


    Dont worry.


    This is the most perfectunch event Ive ever seen.


    Your brand will definitely make waves throughout Seamarsh.


    Ste returned the smile with a quiet nod, her gaze once again fixed on the stage.


    Though the venue was buzzing with noise, Lindsay, seated close by, had overheard the entire conversation between Ste and Bet.


    She subtly tugged on Matthews sleeve, catching his attention.


    Matthew, I need to go to the restroom.


    Matthew, his mind preupied with the event, nodded absentmindedly, barely noticing the request.


    The servant then wheeled Lindsay away.


    As Ste continued her lively conversation with the two elders of the Lowell family, her gaze inadvertently fell on Lindsay.


    She narrowed her eyes, a flicker of understanding crossing her face. From the moment Lindsay had entered, Ste had felt uneasy, her nerves on edge.


    With everything riding on the sess of the productunch, she couldnt afford any distractions or mistakes.


    Ste stood up gracefully, smoothing the fabric of her skirt as she leaned in toward Bet, whispering, Im going to the restroom.


    Bet gave her a quick nod, his voice low but firm.


    Alright, but hurry back.


    The event is about to begin.


    Ste nodded in agreement, and then turned to leave.


    Sanford, watching Ste walk away, allowed a small, knowing smile to tug at his lips.


    Leaning toward Bet, he whispered with a hint of amusement, You know, I really like Ste.


    As he spoke, his gaze casually flicked over to Matthew, aplex look clouding his features.


    Bets smile vanished, reced by a deep frown.


    He leaned in closer, his voice dropping to a scolding whisper. Sanford, are you out of your mind? Ste is already married.


    Dont do anything stupid.


    Sanford, however, remained unfazed, a knowing smile tugging at his lips as he toyed with Bets nerves.


    After a brief pause, he spoke softly.


    When I say I like her, I dont mean it in a romantic way.


    Its more like a brothers affection for his sister.


    Dont you care for Ste too? Havent you always treated her like your own sister? Bet, visibly relieved, let out a long breath, his posture rxing as he patted his chest.


    You had me worried there for a second.


    Dont joke Like that.


    With the tension eased, Bets gaze flickered toward Matthew, a slight frown creasing his brow as his tone grew more serious.


    Even if the woman you came with is your sister, Matthew, you should be more careful, especially on asions like today.


    Just look at the rumors flying around.


    Can you imagine how Ste would feel if she heard them?