The atmosphere at the dinner gathering remained as somber as ever. Conversations were cautious and subdued, as everyone feared incurring the wrath of the imposing figure in the room.

Liam, on the sidelines, could only watch anxiously as Mr. Palmer continued to down drink after drink. Every attempt to intervene was met with a sharp glare.

"What?!" Michael's expression darkened as he received a phone call. He shot up from his chair, causing a screeching noise that made everyone flinch.

Without giving anyone time to react, he swiftly left the room, leaving only a fleeting shadow behind.

Liam, momentarily stunned, hurriedly followed him out, apologizing profusely to those left in...