Arabe''s audition had finally wrapped up, but the reaction was far from what she''d anticipated. Instead of the roaring apuse she expected, the room was filled with a few scattered ps that quickly faded into awkward silence.


    The director''s expression was less than pleased, which didn''t go unnoticed by the likes of Miranda and Theo.


    Miranda had only caught a glimpse of Arabe''s performance. Arabe was supposed to be ying a no- nonsense doctor, yet she appeared in full m makeup with ab coat tailored to emphasize her figure. Her appearance screamed "I''m gorgeous". It was more like watching cosy of an adult film actress rather than a professional doctor.


    The director, visibly annoyed,mented, "Too many unnecessary gestures, and honestly, would a real doctor wear some specially tailored coat? Do you think the audience is blind?"


    Arabe flushed red at the critique, though her eyes shed with defiance. Her assistant quickly leaned in, whispering, "Director, Ms. Hawk is from the investors. Both the Hawke family and the ckwell family are backing this project."


    The director''s expression soured further, but the assistant turned to Arabe with a smile. "Ms. Hawk, why don''t you take a break? We''ll call you when we''re ready."


    Arabe nodded, confident that the role was hers and in no rush. As she turned, she spotted Miranda and Theo together. Her expression shifted, and she promptly approached them.


    "Theo, what happened to your face?" she asked, surprised.


    Theo shot a cold nce at Miranda. Arabe looked incredulous. "Are you insane?"


    Miranda simply smiled and said, "Mr. ckwell tried to get handsy, and I just defended myself."


    Theo''s face looked livid. "What nonsense are you spouting?!"


    Miranda raised her hand, feigning innocence, and softened her voice deliberately. "See, Mr. ckwell just left a mark on my hand. Everyone here saw it."


    The onlookers began to gather, drawn in by the drama. Arabe was amused as if she heard some joke. "He tried to make a move on you? Are you dreaming? I know you like Theo, but using these tactics is just low."


    The crowd knew that the Hawkes and ckwells had announced an engagement for their children the previous year, making this gossip particrly juicy.


    Just then, a man strode confidently towards them. Arabe was momentarily stunned by his striking appearance and presence. But without a word, the mannded a punch on Theo!


    Theo staggered back, eventually losing his footing and falling t on the floor. The sudden turn of events elicited gasps from the crowd. Miranda turned to see who had thrown the punch.


    The man had the physique of a Greek statue, broad shoulders tapering to a narrow waist, and stood there like a wless exhibit. He seemed oddly familiar.


    Arabe blinked, "You''re Elian?"


    She had seen Elian from a distance at an auction once. There was little to no online presence about him, but plenty of rumors circted.


    As Theo struggled to his feet, ready to retaliate, his original sinister expression changed upon recognizing Elian. "Mr. Ashcroft?" he said, bewildered.


    Elian calmly adjusted his sleeve. "I just witnessed Theo harassing thisdy with my own eyes. My sense of justice got the better of me.


    Everyone was speechless, including Miranda.


    "I''m just someone with a strong sense of justice," he added, turning to Miranda with a slight, mischievous smile.


    Those in the know recognized Elian and couldn''t help but twitch their lips. Did he really believe what he was saying?


    Elian was known as a formidable figure in elite circles, and no one would dare punch Theo like he did. Oh, and also thisdy.