A shiver coursed through Matthew as he digested the unfolding scenario, the gravity of it anchoring his thoughts firmly in ce.


    His mind raced as he questioned the need for such extreme actions from Howard just tomission a dress design.


    After being rejected by Ste at the hospital, they had cornered her at the hotel-this Level of involvement was rmingly out of the ordinary.


    Without wasting another moment, Matthew issued amand to Fernando.


    Ramp up our efforts to find Ste.


    Ill be joining you as soon as I can.


    Regaining his bearings, WNatthew turned to Cordell and Neville, his expression clouded with bewilderment.


    What brought you guys to Dorburn so suddenly? Neville scanned the room, noting the people here were all trusted ones, and decided to unveil the full story.


    I got a tip that Den left Lyllmann for Seamarsh and has now vanished from there.


    Concerned he might stir trouble, I made my way here swiftly.


    Matthewsplexion nched as the pieces fell into ce; Den was likely in Dorburn.


    A heavy sense of dread settled over him.


    He attempted to rise, intent on joining the search for Ste, but Cordell pressed him back down.


    Neville chimed in, Matthew, youre barely on your feet. Look after yourself first.


    We have plenty of people out there looking for Ste.


    Your health is just as crucial.


    Taking a deep breath, Matthew reined in his panic and addressed Fernando with a sharp tone.


    Ensure were monitoring everyone connected to this.


    We cant afford to slip up now.


    Ste took her freshly drawn designs to Howards room and handed them to him.


    These are my designs for the suit, Mr.


    Archer.


    Please take a look.


    If nothing needs to be amended, then let my mother and me leave.


    Howard sat in his chair with his back to Ste.


    There was a moment of silence, and then he said, You worked so hard.


    Especially considering you were pregnant. It must have been quite exhausting.


    Stes face paled.


    However, she quickly regained herposure and said, There are many women who work even while pregnant.


    Theres no need to be concerned about that, Mr.


    Archer.


    If you truly care, then just let us leave.


    Howard burst intoughter at this, his voice echoing throughout the room.


    Youve been staying in this castle for a while now.


    Dont you think you should have grown used to it? Castles like this are a rare luxury in Seamarsh.


    I could even gift it to you if you want.


    Ste shook her head and said, I cant ept something I havent earned.


    I dont want it.


    She then frowned thoughtfully and stared intently at the back of Howards head.


    Something felt off about him. He hadnt turned to face her, and his voice sounded rougher than usual.


    However, she didnt dwell too long on it as she thought it was a result of his recent illness.


    Seemingly probing into her life, Howard asked, I heard you lost your father at a young age.


    Do you have any memories of him? Did he ever take you to any special ces? Ste answered each question with a curt I dont know.


    She didnt reveal that she had memory issues.


    Howards interest in her private life suddenly left her feeling wary.


    Howard.


    paused briefly and then continued, I heard Matthews feelings for you seem to have waned.


    There are many men from prominent families who would be happy to have you.


    Youre young and beautiful.


    You really should start nning your future.


    A wave of disgust washed over Ste, and she coldly said, My personal affairs are none of your concern, Mr.


    Archer.


    Now she was certain that there was something certainly strange about Howard.