The doctor had cautioned that Roscoe's memory loss was temporary and unpredictable and Roscoe could regain his memories at any moment, though it could also take years, or even decades.

Miguel hadn't anticipated signs of Roscoe's memory returning so soon.

It had been such a brief time. He stroked his beard and lied, "Why would I deceive you? Remember, you were the one who chased after Doreen. Now you're the one claiming she's not good enough? You've tarnished her reputation. Who will marry her now?"

Roscoe remained skeptical. "I believe I have better judgment. I wouldn't fancy someone known for cruelty."

Miguel was at a loss for words. He demanded that Roscoe apologize to Doreen, but Roscoe stood his ground. "I've done nothing wrong. I won't apologize."

Enraged, Miguel swung his cane at Roscoe, who dodged swiftly, causing Miguel to fall and subsequently be hospitalized.

Seeing Miguel in a weakened state later, Roscoe relented somewhat, agreeing to make an effort to get along with Doreen.

This birthday party marked Roscoe's first meeting with Doreen since that tumultuous argument.

Doreen, sensing Roscoe's aloofness, clenched her teeth tightly. She had noticed Roscoe's attention fixed on Nicole earlier, sparking jealousy and rage. Her plan had been to show Roscoe the demeaning nature of Nicole's job.

However, Roscoe's actual presence and the way he looked at Nicole only fueled Doreen's jealousy and anger.

Despite Nicole's modest uniform, Doreen viewed her with disdain, convinced Nicole always appeared seductive regardless of attire.

Trying to mask her frustration with flirtation, Doreen said, “Roscoe, we're all waiting for you to blow out the candles."

The couch was a three-seater. With Vicki and Jarrod occupying one end, Roscoe had no choice but to sit beside Doreen.

As Nicole approached with a long lighter to ignite the candles, Doreen interrupted sharply, her tone harsh as she commanded, "Give me the lighter."

Nicole meekly passed the lighter to Doreen, who dismissively gestured with her hand and snapped, "Move aside!"

To Doreen, this was her moment, her birthday wish, and she was not going to let Nicole spoil it.

Acknowledging the command, Nicole stepped back to the corner. Despite her retreat, she could feel the weight of many eyes on her.

Nicole bowed her head, her eyes fixed on the floor. There were those among the crowd who wished her harm. Their stares burned into her, intense and unwavering.

Doreen made her birthday wish and grabbed Roscoe's hand, cheerfully suggesting, "Roscoe, let's blow out the candles together, okay?"

Roscoe's response was a tense hand. Doreen felt the stiffness but didn't release her grip. Instead, she held on tighter. She understood the dynamics at play. Roscoe wouldn't dare let go of her hand in front of Jarrod, for fear of repercussions from Jarrod.