"Irene, you okay?" Dave quickly wrapped his arms around her as Ethan guided her into the car. Dave's face was filled with concern, yet his eyes flashed with a hint of anger as Ivy's words were like a constant taunt in his head. After his conversation with Ivy-more like an argument-he swiftly hurried to Irene's location to get her out of the situation.

Irene didn't respond; instead, she just relaxed onto the leather seat, her eyes fluttering closed. She took deep breaths, her chest heaving as she fought the urge to break down.

Tears pricked at the corners of her eyes, but she refused to let them fall. The tension...