Chapter 10

Sally stared at Sandy in disbelief, unable to understand his agreement. “Did he not care about me at all?” she wondered.

Mr. Bennett Sr. was pleased with Sandy's demeanor, deeming him suitable for Lauren. Smiling, he said, "Take care of Lauren during the dance."

Sandy shed his playboy persona, presenting himself as a responsible adult before Mr. Bennett Sr. He smiled, then gestured to Lauren to join him for the dance.

Lauren was indifferent to her dance partner. Her sole purpose that day was to please her grandfather; afterward, she intended to leave the Bennett family and pursue more pressing matters.

Lauren raised her hand, but before she could touch Sandy's palm, he left. He immediately strode to Sally, who stood behind Mrs. Bennett, and anxiously asked, "Are you alright?"

Sandy's behavior was a stark contrast to his previous attitude. Lauren sensed this was Sandy's true nature—he genuinely worried about Sally.

"Hold on. I'll take you to the hospital now," Sandy said, lifting Sally and heading for the door. He passed Lauren without acknowledging her. Mr. Bennett Sr., Mrs. Bennett, and Darren followed.

Lauren, the supposed star of the evening, was ignored. Half the Bennett family departed, leaving a silent gathering. The remaining guests hesitated, unsure whether to attend to Sally or remain at the party. They watched Mr. Bennett Sr., trying to gauge his priorities.

Mr. Bennett Sr. remained silent, his expression unreadable. A seasoned business tycoon, he didn't readily reveal his emotions. However, the housekeeper, a long-time Bennett family employee, recognized his anger.

The situation was precarious. If Mr. Bennett Sr. remained for Lauren's sake, it might imply she was paramount, yet also suggest her indifference. Canceling the party, however, could damage Lauren's reputation. The dinner was her debut into Bennett family social circles; canceling it would suggest her unimportance. It was a dilemma, even for Mr. Bennett Sr.

The guests watched Mr. Bennett Sr. and subtly observed Lauren, anticipating her reaction. A typical young woman might have been distraught, but Lauren remained calm, showing no emotion regarding Sally or the departures.

Mr. Bennett Sr. was surprised by her composure. He expected anger, at least some displeasure, but she was remarkably placid.

"Lauren," Mr. Bennett Sr. began, intending to inquire about her thoughts, but was interrupted. "Why are you so indifferent? Your sister is in the hospital, and you show no reaction? You're cold-blooded!" The speaker, Sally's suitor, was angered by Lauren's lack of visible emotion.

Lauren turned, looking coldly at the man. Unaffected by his words, she asked, "What do you expect me to do?"

He replied, "Show some sympathy! Sally is in terrible pain!"

Lauren frowned, her composure finally breaking. "It's mild neurological stomach pain, easily treated with medication," she retorted. "Would you cry if your friend had hair loss?"

The man was speechless.