Tristan Ashcroft's gaze turned icy as he stared at Jenna Roland. His slender fingers tapped rhythmically against the desk, producing a dull thud.

"Why didn't you inform me immediately when trouble arose?"

If not for Stella Laurent's message, he wouldn't have known someone dared to cause a scene in his territory.

Jenna bit her lower lip, her fingers unconsciously twisting the hem of her blouse.

"Boss, I thought I could handle it myself. I didn't expect them to be so persistent... I'm sorry for the inconvenience."

Tristan stood, looking down at her with an unreadable expression.

"Inconvenience? My primary concern is the safety of our guests—and yours."

A cold sweat formed on his back. This was Ethan Roscente's wife. If anything happened to her here, the consequences would be disastrous.

Jenna bowed deeply. "I sincerely apologize."

"Go." Tristan waved dismissively. "Take your brother back to the private room. Don't disturb the other guests."

Nodding, Jenna quickly pulled Sean Roland away.

The moment the door closed behind them, Jenna's face paled. She leaned against the door, her chest heaving.

"Big brother... he knows. He'll spread rumors everywhere."

Her voice trembled as her fingers clenched the fabric of her clothes.

Sean frowned. "Maybe you should quit? Once gossip like this starts circulating—"

"No!" Jenna's head snapped up. "Milo's surgery still needs over a million. There are follow-up treatments too. If I quit now..."

Her voice cracked, eyes glistening with unshed tears.

Sean raked a hand through his hair in frustration. The money in his account wasn't even enough to cover a fraction.

"Quit first. We'll figure out the money somehow."

Jenna shook her head, tears threatening to spill.

"We can't wait... The doctor said Milo's condition can't be delayed any longer."

Didn't she know this job would invite malicious gossip? But for her brother's sake, she had no other choice.

Sean exhaled heavily. 1.3 million—an astronomical sum for people like them.

"Maybe we could—"

Before he could finish, a sharp knock sounded at the door.