As their displeasure grew, I maintained my composure. "What's wrong? Did I say something inappropriate?"

Martin’s face darkened. He was quite unpredictable.

Jeremiah felt compelled to intervene. "Ms. Chloe, this is Bourdamun, not Foswood. Don't—"

Before he could finish, Martin slammed the table. He yelled at Jeremiah, "Who do you think you are? Do you have the right to speak here? Don't pretend to be something you're not!"

I shivered at his sudden outburst and involuntarily looked at Martin. I could tell that his words were actually aimed at me. Martin was quite arrogant.

The room fell silent. The other three dared not breathe, and my heart raced.

I chuckled, breaking the tension. Leaning back in my chair, I glanced casually at Martin and remarked, "Looks like you have quite the temper, Mr. Martin."

He raised an eyebrow and looked at me. "Sorry, I didn't mean to startle you. He’s short-tempered."

I forced a strained smile. "It seems dinner isn't coming."

The unidentified man