When Andrew finally let Stuart go, a week had already passed.
The day Stuart got his freedom back, Robin threw a party for him at the club with their friends.
Most of them had grown up together, and even if they hadn't, they were all from good families.
Stuart was the top dog among them.
He was young but already managing his family's business, unlike others who still relied on their parents' money.
Newcomers often thought Stuart was as old as their parents because of his maturity.
Stuart was calm and reserved, with a noble and aloof vibe, making him stand out from the more flashy guys.
He was always the center of attention.
His good looks and confidence made him very attractive.
Women couldn't take their eyes off him, and even men were envious.
When guys hang out, it's usually about smoking, drinking, and talking about women.
No matter the social class, some things never change.
Someone who had heard some gossip asked Stuart, "Hey, I heard you're planning to remarry?"
Stuart, lounging with his legs crossed, barely reacted and just hummed in response.
"Honestly, Stuart, you're pretty chill. After you and Josephine divorced, the Kalmien family's business didn't suffer at all. She didn't give you any face during the divorce. Bet she regrets it now."
Even though Stuart knew it wasn't true, it still felt good to hear.
Men had their pride.
Even if he had begged Josephine for forgiveness, he had to keep his dignity in front of others.
"Couples fight, you know," he said casually. "They make up quickly after."
Someone laughed. "That's right. Stuart is so talented and amazing. Even men are envious, let alone women who wouldn't want to leave!"
Another guy chimed in, "How is Stuart amazing? Do you know?"
"Get out!" the first guy laughed. "As if you haven't peed with him before! Feeling inferior?"
"Get out!"
Everyone laughed. Stuart smiled, looking pleased.
Robin clinked glasses with him and asked, "When are you going to find Josephine?"
Stuart said, "No rush. If I'm too eager, she'll have the upper hand."
Robin nodded. "True. Women are good at playing games. Ignoring her is a good strategy."
Stuart glanced at him. "Jair's never been in a relationship, so his advice is useless. You've had many, but none lasted. So, don't give me any advice."
"That's not fair," Robin said.
"Besides," Stuart cut him off, "Every time you give advice, it either backfires or is useless."
Robin looked guilty. "I..."
"Enough," Stuart added, "I've told you before, no matter what happened in the past, respect her in the future. If you upset her again, don't expect me to overlook it."
"Seriously?" Robin looked hurt. "I didn't say anything. If that's how it is, I'll just keep my mouth shut from now on."
"Fine," Stuart said, "That's very considerate of you."
Robin smiled helplessly. "I was joking."
Stuart said, "I'm not. If she doesn't forgive you, avoid these gatherings in the future."
Robin couldn't help but say, "You should get her back first!"
Stuart frowned, his gaze icy, but said nothing.
Robin shivered, feeling a wave of tension. He quickly said, "I get it! I won't get in your way anymore."
Hearing that Stuart was free, Jair called. "When you go find Josephine, watch your attitude, okay?"
Stuart said, "I know, no need to remind me. Besides, you don't even have a girlfriend, so don't try to advise me."
"Fine." Jair gritted his teeth. "I won't interfere. You better handle it quickly."
"No rush," Stuart said, "I haven't been to the company for a few days. I'll handle work first, then everything else."
"You're not in a hurry?" Jair asked incredulously, "If you don't go after her, you'll lose her!"
Stuart snorted. "You underestimate me."
Jair shot back, "Shouldn't I ? You even thought of imprisoning Josephine. Hurry up and apologize; you're still here being leisurely?"
Stuart, hit where it hurt, got angry. "None of your business!" He quickly hung up.
But after that, his frustration bubbled up.
The more he drank, the more agitated he became.
The panic he had suppressed now spread through his body.
Stuart suddenly stood up.
The people around him, who were drinking happily, were startled.
Robin looked up. "What's wrong?"
"Keep drinking," Stuart said. His face no longer had the composure from before.
Now, his expression was cold, and he seemed surrounded by an almost tangible chill.
Everyone felt a heavy tension, making it hard to breathe.
Although they hung out with Stuart, they weren't on the same level as him.
Stuart's authority was overwhelming.
But why did he suddenly change his mood?
No one dared to speak, watching Stuart leave with a cold aura. They looked at Robin.
Robin shrugged. "Who knows what's gotten into him. Never mind, keep eating and drinking, it's all on his tab anyway."
Stuart walked outside, and the night breeze cleared his mind a bit.
He cursed himself. He was clearly anxious, so why pretend to be calm?
He took out his phone, and in his haste, his hand slipped.