Cyrus's face contorted, his bravado replaced by a flicker of fear.

The onlookers murmured nervously, cowed by the threat.

Maggie frowned, confused by Karl's sudden claim of being her boyfriend.

Their eyes met, and Karl offered a reassuring smile, subtly shaking his head to silence her.

Maggie clenched her fists. While she wanted to clear things up, she knew exposing their lie could backfire. These people wouldn't hesitate to hurt them both. With a sigh, she gave up.

Helena was pleased by Karl's defense of Maggie. “Is he truly your boyfriend, dear?"

Before Maggie could answer, Karl took the initiative. "Mrs. Shear, it's a pleasure. I'm Karl Kingston."

Helena reciprocated with a satisfied nod. "Nice to meet you."

His good looks definitely earned her approval.

"Are you here with Maggie?"

"No, actually. I'm here with my technician to maintain the factory's computer system."

“A company owner, then?"

"Something like that."

Helena and Karl continued their conversation as the factory director Vinson dispersed the crowd. "Miss Shear," he addressed Maggie, "shall we discuss work first?"

Maggie nodded, then turned to Karl. "Go ahead and get started, Karl."

“Sure. Let me know when you're finished. I'll wait for you."

Maggie offered a smile and a subtle nod.

Helena interjected, “Maggie, I'll call your father and invite Karl for lunch, We should get to know him better."

The implication was clear: they were treating Karl as a potential son-in-law.

Maggie furrowed her brow, on the verge of protest, but hesitated.