However, Hector, a business associate of the Clifford family from their overseas dealings, was a notable exception among the guests.

Noticing Raegan's unease, Stefan offered a reassuring touch, gently patting the back of her hand. “Stay close to me."

Fortunately, the toasting ceremony soon drew to a close.

Stefan seized on Raegan's exhaustion as a pretext to usher her away for a much-needed rest.

As they approached the exit, a low voice unexpectedly resonated. “The bride departs so soon?"

Raegan's gaze met the man's, his slicked-back hair revealing a mature face with strong, earnest features that exuded a steady, reassuring presence. Despite his middle-aged appearance, he carried himself with a refined, sophisticated air that commanded attention.

Resplendent in a vivid red velvet suit, the luxurious fabric shimmered strikingly under the light, yet he wore it with a quiet confidence that belied any hint of ostentation or impropriety, as if he were born to wear such vibrant splendor.

The man's gaze met Raegan's, holding her eyes for a moment.

Raegan's mind reeled, and she instinctively took a step back.

Luckily, Stefan was quick to react, catching Raegan by the elbow and steadying her before she could stumble.

However, the brief disturbance didn't go unnoticed by the man standing before them.

The man's lips curled into a subtle, enigmatic smile as he asked, "Miss Foster, do you recall who I am?"

His tone was calm, yet it exerted a palpable pressure, like a gentle yet insistent probing that demanded a response.

Raegan's body shook with a subtle tremor, her face instantly draining of color, leaving her pale and clammy. A creeping sense of dread washed over her.

But recognizing her reaction was disproportionate, she swiftly composed herself, taking a deep breath before speaking. “Sir, I don't actually know you. I must have twisted my ankle just now."

However, the man's piercing gaze lingered, his deep voice asking, "Miss Foster, why do you look so afraid?"

His piercing, icy gaze seemed to bore into her, its intensity laced with a subtle, unsettling menace.

Raegan's heart raced wildly, her panic surging as she struggled to withstand the intensity of his piercing gaze.

Stefan interjected smoothly, "Davey, Raegan's unease stems not from fear of you, but from the harsh climate of Aurora, to which she's unaccustomed. Her homeland, Ambrosia, boasts a far more temperate environment."

"Really?" Davey's skepticism shone through in his tone, yet he chose to let the matter rest, forgoing further interrogation.