The Almighty Dominance

Chapter 71

Chapter 71

Sophia stood at the centre of the banquet hall, her eyes fixed on Alex, who lingered unobtrusively in the corner.

Words caught in her throat as confusion and disbelief swirled within her.

How had Alex managed to make Peter Smith, of all people, tremble with fear? Even the powerful Lancaster family couldn't command such a reaction from him. Watching Peter's desperate pleas, she was certain Alex must have tricked him somehow-probably with his usual swagger and exaggerated tales.

He was, after all, the king of braggarts.

At least she hadn't been gullible enough to fall for his antics like poor Peter had.

"Peter, please stand up. People are watching," Sophia urged softly, a flush of embarrassment creeping up her neck

Peter remained kneeling, his head bowed low.

"Miss Sophia, I beg you-promise me you'll help secure Mr. Alex's forgiveness. Only then will I rise."

"Fine, fine," she relented, hoping to end the spectacle. "Just get up."

Nearby, Malvin, Mike, Amelia, and other members of the Lancaster family watched in stunned silence.

Peter, who moments ago had been raging and even struck them, was now meekly beseeching Sophia, as docile as a chastened child.

Mike, still smarting from the earlier confrontation, saw an opportunity to assert himself. He strode up to Peter with a scowl.

"What on earth are you doing, Peter?"

Without warning, Peter swung his hand, delivering a sharp slap to Mike's face.

"I'm putting you in your place!" he snapped. "Who are you to disrespect Mr. Alex? Stay out of my sight, or you'll regret it every time we cross paths!"

Mike stumbled back, shock and humiliation evident on his face.

He quickly retreated, not daring to provoke Peter further.

"Mr. Smith, please refrain from striking my family," Sophia interjected firmly.

Peter immediately lowered his head. "Yes, Miss Sophia. I apologize. It won't happen again."

Sophia shook her head, exasperated, and turned toward Alex, who stood watching the scene unfold with an inscrutable expression.

Peter trailed closely behind her, his demeanor a mix of fear and deference.

Grabbing Alex's arm, she whispered urgently, "Alex, what on earth did you do to him?"

"I didn't do anything. He approached me, claiming he was engaged to you."

"That's not happening!" she snapped, irritation flaring.

exactly what I told him," Alex

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Chapter 71

evident. "Then why is he so

lightly. "I have no

narrowed her eyes. "You must have tricked

his lips. "But I am

tales, but you don't fool me. Whatever you've done,

deserve a bit of humbling?"

and despite herself, she felt a flicker of

feeling a bit vindicated seeing Peter hit them, especially after her family had tried forcing an unwanted

she couldn't let

admit you're pleased," he teased

up," she muttered, trying to mask her grin with a stern

pulling

glancing back at Peter. "Good performance, I've forgiven you." Peter's face flooded

Alex. I will never forget this kindness! If you ever need anything, just call me- I'll do

Alex replied, waving dismissively. "You and your family are

in disbelief. How

as he bowed again. "I'm sorry if our family isn't worthy in your

Kingston had to follow Alex's command-so who were the Smiths in

feeling lucky just to be granted

"I'll take my

Sophia turned to Alex, her eyes searching. "How on earth does he believe all your... b Alex gave

ing?"

salvage the evening, Amelia instructed the Master of Ceremonies to proceed

seats, the atmosphere shifting

of the Lancaster Group,

the shadow that

"Do you want

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Chapter 71

She nodded silently.

out, then," he suggested gently. "There's a cozy café

can grab

her lips.

the grand hall, leaving behind the glittering

the kindest act is simply to walk beside someone in their quiet

inside, the Master of Ceremonies continued, "Please welcome

woman ascended the stage,

Jasmine Kingston, who couldn't be here tonight.

applause rippled through the

was well-known as Jasmine's representative, often stepping in

to Jasmine's health issues.

a message," Kelly continued, her gaze sharp as

address a matter of