Mark's gaze locked with Cecilia's, where an emotional storm seemed to brew.

In a hushed tone, he asserted, "I'll drink it for you."

But as he motioned to take the glass, Cecilia's reflexes kicked in.

Remembering Mark's fragile health, she knew he couldn't afford even a sip.

She gulped down the wine hurriedly.

Her cheeks were a rosy hue post-drink, rendering her even more enchanting.

Roger Medina, the initial instigator, found his sobriety hastening back.

He'd not only toyed with the Fowler patriarch's daughter but had also slighted Mark. Recognizing the gravity of the moment, he was about to say something, but Mark interrupted him. He declared, his voice resonant, “I will fully fund this play myself."

Roger's anxiety surged, mot over potential profit loss, but the realization that he'd crossed Mark, a man renowned for his resilience.

Eager to invest but wary of the terrain, Roger observed Mark's Lack of immediate action. Instead, Mark offered a subdued smile, advising, “Mr. Medina, no need to vie with me this time. Aim for the next project. Simon has an abundance of compelling scripts."

Simon, regaining his wits, hastily concurred.

Roger exhaled in relief, though cold sweat drenched his back.

As Mark engaged Roger in conversation, he effortlessly took control of the situation.

This apparent usurpation irked Cecilia.

In a silent protest, she consumed several more glasses of wine, her assistant's attempts to intervene proving futile.

The assistant's glance darted towards Mark, aware of the history he shared with Cecilia.

Initially, Mark sought to dissuade her, but he soon relented, allowing her to indulge.

The wine, of decent quality, wouldn't induce immediate inebriation.

However, Cecilia consumed half a bottle in the end, sufficient to impair her senses. As they prepared to depart, Mark assured her assistant, "I'll ensure she gets home safely."

The assistant, though hesitant, acquiesced.