But Den didnt give him the chance.


    He leaned slightly forward and continued, his tone unhurried yet sharp, Ste is pregnant.


    Did you know that? The revtion struck Sanford like a thunderbolt.


    For a moment, shock rippled through him, but years of enduring countless trials had honed his ability to mask his emotions.


    He quickly regained hisposure, forcing a calm tone.


    Whether Ste is pregnant or not is none of my concern.


    Taking Ste away like this will only rm Bet.


    Have you thought about the consequences? Dens enigmatic smile deepened.


    He rose from his seat with an air of unshakable authority, his steps slow and deliberate as he walked past Sanford.


    As he passed, he whispered, his voice Low and weighted with warning, Sanford, Im old now, and you are the sessor Ive chosen. Dont disappoint me by acting foolishly over a woman.


    Sanford remained rooted in ce, his gaze following Den as_ he disappeared from sight.


    Neville and Mileys ne glided to a smooth stop at Dorburn Airport.


    Ovee with nerves, they grabbed their bags in a flurry and made a beeline for the hospital to check on Matthew.


    They entered the hospital room to find Matthew resting silently in his bed, yet to awaken.


    Before they could dig into the details, Bet and Doreen burst through the door, their faces etched with urgency.


    Ste is missing! Those chilling words hung in the air, leaving everyone dumbstruck.


    Bets brow furrowed deeply as he continued, I had barely stepped back into the hotel when the manager rang up.


    He told me that Last night, Howards crew whisked Ste and Be away.


    Ive got people on it, trying to sniff them out, but Howards hiding out somewhere off the map, and they didnt leave a breadcrumb trail. Mileys heart skipped a beat when she suddenly recalled Stes pregnancy.


    The thought of her friend in danger sent shivers down her spine.


    She grabbed Nevilles arm, urgencycing her voice.


    Neville, we need to get someone on this-now! Every second counts! Seeing Miley so worked up, Neville wasted no time.


    He whipped out his phone and began orchestrating a search for Ste.


    Fernando immediately tapped into hiswork in Dorburn, rallying a group of people to hunt for Ste.


    The weight of the situation pressed down on everyone, filling the room with a heavy, tense silence.


    By the time evening rolled around, Ste received a polite invitation from the secretary to meet with Howard in his study.


    Howard= weed her with open arms and a grin that could light up a room.


    Yet, despite his warmth, Ste remained on guard. She cut straight to the chase.


    Mr.


    Archer, what exactly do you want from me? Lets skip the formalities.


    Howards reply was earnest.


    Absolutely, its about the clothing design.


    My secretary mentioned that youd need my measurements.


    I hope Im not imposing by asking you here, especially as Im not feeling my best.


    Ste nodded, picking up the measuring tape to begin her work.


    While measuring, she maintained a careful distance and ventured, Mr.


    Archer, once the outfit is designed, may I leave?