Nathan's face burned crimson with rage as he lunged toward Amy, but Sebastian moved with effortless grace, intercepting him before he could take another step.

"Even with an entire room watching," Sebastian remarked, his voice deceptively smooth, "Mr. Prescott dared to lay a hand on Celeste. It says everything about his character—and why he believes he can act without consequence."

His gaze flicked to Alexander, lips curving into a knowing smirk.

"It's simple, really. Someone's been enabling him. Tell me, Mr. Blackwood, how far does your favoritism stretch? First your precious Victoria, and now... her allies? What next—her pet? Does this mean anyone connected to Ms. Langley, no matter how insignificant, has the right to humiliate and torment Celeste?"

Alexander's sharp eyes remained unreadable as he stayed silent, finally turning to Amy. "What do you want me to do to resolve this?"

Nathan's expression darkened. "Alex—"

Amy replied coolly, "Since he threw water at me first, he should experience the same—one hundred times over."

Nathan's fists clenched, resentment burning in his glare.

Nearby, Victoria stood frozen, eyes wide with disbelief. She couldn't fathom Amy would make such a demand in front of Alexander.

She opened her mouth to speak. "Alex—"

But Alexander cut her off softly before she could plead.

"Would you prefer to do it yourself, or shall someone else handle it?"

His question was directed solely at Amy.

With serene detachment, Amy answered, "I'm not in peak condition. Let someone else do it. He isn't worth aggravating my injuries over."

Alexander nodded, his gaze inscrutable. "Very well."

Nathan shot Amy a venomous glare before storming out.

Victoria, realizing this wasn't the moment to discuss the car accident, hurried after him.

As the tension dissipated, exhaustion settled over Amy's features.

She had expected Alexander to side with her, and it stirred nothing in her heart. With undeniable proof, if his friend dared harm his wife and he did nothing, what kind of man would that make him?

Besides, this incident didn't involve Victoria. Had she been the one to act, the outcome might have been different.

She closed her eyes. "I'm tired. I'd like to rest. Anything else can wait until tomorrow."

Sebastian and Alexander remained rooted in place.

Sebastian stepped forward. "Celeste, eat something before you sleep."

Remembering his kindness these past few days, Amy opened her eyes and offered him a grateful smile. "Thank you, Mr. Kingsley."

Sebastian's expression softened. "The kitchen prepared your favorites, but given your injuries, I had them omit anything too spicy."

Amy's eyes brightened as she glanced at the tray—every dish was indeed her preference.

Standing nearby, Alexander felt an odd irritation claw at him. The scene before him made Sebastian seem like the one who belonged at Amy's side, while he was merely an intruder.

His lips pressed into a thin line, an inexplicable displeasure rising within him.

"Mr. Kingsley," he interrupted the moment, voice cool, "if there's nothing else, you may leave. I'll take care of things here."

Sebastian paused, surprise flickering across his face. "Mr. Blackwood, your presence seems unnecessary. Perhaps you should check on Ms. Langley instead?"

Alexander's expression remained impassive. "Amy is my wife. My place is here—far more so than yours, Mr. Kingsley."