Chapter 40
Chapter 40:
Feeling confident in his association with the prestigious Campbell family, Theo felt secure that no one would dare challenge him. But when he realized someone was indeed standing up to him, his rage flared uncontrollably.
“Who do you think you are?” Theo roared, his voice echoing with defiance. “I’m eager to see which fool dares to oppose me! If this proves unrelated to me, you’ll deeply regret challenging a member of the Campbell family. Mark my words, you’ll find it impossible to make a living in Inewood ever again p>
In the midst of Theo’s tirade, a figure of stature and elegance separated from the crowd, causing a murmur of astonishment among the onlookers.
“It’s Professor Ivan Stewart! He’s stepping up for that young man!” someone in the crowd exclaimed in awe.
Theo’s anger turned to shock. The individual offering support was none other than Ivan Stewart, the esteemed music maestro and highlight of the upcoming concert. Ivan was a figure of national renown in the musical world. He was a rare guest at any gathering. His presence at this event was solely because the Campbell family had persuaded him, emphasizing it was a charitable concert.
With Ivan’s distinguished status and considerable influence, he was undeterred by Theo’s intimidation. As Ashton caught sight of Ivan, a smile of recognition and relief spread across his face. He was one of Ivan’s most accomplished students. Ivan looked at Ashton with eyes filled with pride and joy, his smile broadening as he approached.
He warmly embraced Ashton. “It’s been too long, Ashton. What a surprise to find you here,” he remarked. “Fear not. You’re my favorite student, and I am here as your supporter. Should it turn out that Theo is innocent, I am prepared to accept responsibility p>
Ashton’s face brightened with gratitude as he acknowledged his mentor. “Thank you, Professor Stewart, for standing by me p>
The surrounding crowd watched in awe as they interacted closely.
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Incredible! Was this impressive young man truly a student of Ivan, the revered musical maestro?
With the endorsement of Ivan, a figure of such stature in the world of music, the crowd’s skepticism began to wane, increasingly siding with Ashton in his claims. Theo’s complexion lost all color. It was a visible sign of his rising panic. This turn of events was completely unexpected. The support of someone as influential as Ivan sealed Theo’s fate, leaving him with no room to maneuver.
If they decided to test his clothing for traces of the allergen, his involvement would undoubtedly be exposed. Just then, Rosalie, who had been informed of her sister’s allergic reaction, rushed to the scene. Her expression of worry quickly turned to one of cold fury upon spotting Theo.
“I apologize for the disturbance. We’ll address this issue away from the public eye. I hope this hasn’t diminished anyone’s experience of the concert,” Rosalie stated apologetically before gesturing to the nearby security team. The security guards promptly responded, stepping forward to firmly escort Theo away.
Rosalie then guided Ashton, along with their group, toward a secluded lounge backstage. Once behind closed doors and away from the public gaze, Rosalie allowed her controlled anger to surface, ready to confront the underlying issues.
“Theo, you are a Campbell, so I’m giving you one final opportunity to leave. Don’t presume I’m unaware of your schemes. Threaten Selena again, and I will disregard our familial connections p>
The intensity of her threat terrified Theo. Upon being released by the guards, he didn’t hesitate; he dashed out of the room, overwhelmed by fear.
This unexpected display of fury from Rosalie was a first for Ashton to witness. He had never before seen this side of Rosalie, known for her poise and grace. The revelation of her fiery temperament added an intriguing layer to her character.
Being familiar with her sister’s fiery temperament, Selena quickly intervened to diffuse her anger. “Rosalie, I’m okay now. Please, don’t waste your anger on him. He’s not worth it p>
Rosalie’s anger eased a bit when she saw her sister being so thoughtful.
Ashton frowned and said quietly, “Are we really just going to let him go? If I wasn’t here today, Selena could have been seriously hurt p>
Selena’s eyes grew dim, and she looked down without a word.
Rosalie sighed deeply. “We can’t handle this in public. Since you’re involved, I’ll explain. The Campbell family looks grand, but there’s fierce competition inside. Every year, all branches meet to review progress. If our branch fails to meet targets, my father could be ousted as head of the family p>
Rosalie took a moment to ponder on the matter.
“My father is working on a big business deal. If it succeeds, we’ll meet our targets this year. This concert is for charity and to boost our family’s reputation and my father’s position. Theo’s actions today were likely ordered by his elders to distract my father and ruin the event. If I retaliate against him, they’ll use it to hurt my father. So, as much as I hate it, I have to bear it p>
Ashton sighed and decided not to say more.
Selena tried to cheer up the mood. “Ashton, I’m okay now. I’ll be more careful next time, so don’t worry p>
Rosalie looked at Ashton with gratitude. “Thank you, Ashton, for saving Selena again. I owe you so much p>
He smiled slightly and waved his hand. “It’s not my place to judge your family issues. But I’ll do my best to protect both of you p>
The Campbell sisters felt warmth from Ashton’s words. They quickly gathered themselves and smiled.
Noticing the time, the three of them left the lounge to attend the concert.