Before Matthew could respond, Lindsay quickly interjected, Matthew, you should stay with Ste.


    Im already at the hospital and can handle the examination myself.


    Lindsays proactive suggestion stirred suspicion in Ste, who couldnt shake the feeling that Lindsay had ulterior motives.


    Sensing Stes scrutinizing gaze, Lindsay grew uneasy.


    Earlier that morning, she had deliberately tried to dy the examination, hoping to avoid it altogether.


    However, her efforts had only annoyed Matthew, leaving her no choice but toe to the hospital.


    Ste, unconvinced by Lindsays sudden disy of consideration, shook her head.


    Its fine.


    Let Matthew stay.


    Ive already been examined, she said calmly.


    Hearing this, Lindsay grew anxious, suspecting that Ste was intentionally opposing her.


    Ste, in turn, noted Lindsays slight nervousness, further reinforcing her belief that something wasnt right. There was an unmistakable sense of mischief Lurking beneath the surface.


    Matthew, who had been quietly observing, now appeared visibly displeased.


    He had long noticed Lindsays staunch resistance to the examination-a stark contrast to her demeanor before arriving at Dorburn.


    Coupled with previous suspicions about Lindsays various behaviors, Matthew made a decision in his heart.


    He wanted to stay and find out what was really going on.


    Lindsay opened her mouth as if to say something more, but upon meeting Matthews resolute gaze, she immediately fell silent.


    While Ste was equally curious about Lindsays sudden change in demeanor, her primary concern was the risk of exposing her pregnancy if she lingered at the hospital.


    Deciding it was safer to leave, she turned toward the exit.


    However, before she could take another step, a group of bodyguards appeared at the hospital entrance, swiftly blocking her path.


    Leading them was a middle-aged man with a refined and elegant air.


    He approached Ste with measured steps and spoke politely.


    Maam, a pleasure to meet you. I am Mr.


    Archers secretary.


    Both Matthew and Ste frowned at the unexpected encounter.


    Out of courtesy, Ste managed a polite greeting, though her body instinctively retreated a step.


    Matthew, almost reflexively, moved closer to Ste, positioning himself protectively at her side.


    The secretary, unfazed by their defensive posture, continued, Mr.


    Archer would like you to design a tuxedo for his sixtieth birthday banquet.


    2 Ste offered a small, respectful bow as she declined gracefully.


    Please extend my gratitude to Mr.


    Archer for his appreciation of my work.


    However, I am scheduled to return home in a few days and, unfortunately, wont have the time.


    The secretary, seemingly prepared for her refusal, remained persistent. Mr.


    Archer greatly admires your talent and wishes to express his sincerest apologies for the unpleasant experience you had at the design event.


    Although the mans demeanor was humble and polite, Ste keenly detected an undertone of authority in his voice.


    Ste offered a faint smile and gently shook her head.


    I truly didnt take it to heart.


    Mr.


    Archer has no reason to feel sorry about it.


    Its just that I really dont have the time to take on this design project.


    The secretary studied her intently, his sharp gaze as if trying to read her thoughts.


    After a moment, he relented, waving his hand to signal his men before turning to leave with them in tow.


    As soon as they disappeared, Stes body visibly rxed, her tense shoutders softening.