However, with only thirty minutes left for the show to start, Trudy was informed of Claudia's withdrawal. Trudy naturally speculated Claudia's intentions.

But there was no reason for Claudia to do so. Though she maintained a low profile at home, her international reputation was excellent. She had no intention of going back on her word.

The more Trudy pondered, the more dubious it seemed. She instructed her assistant to halt all tasks and head backstage to investigate further.

Meanwhile, Claudia and Joann ran into Bennett, who was just exiting his car.

Claudia, previously assertive and proud, wilted at his sight.

She had excitedly informed Bennett about her charity performance a few days prior and asked if he could attend.

However, upon his arrival, she had been kicked out. The situation was embarrassing.

Joann, who was meeting Bennett for the first time, was at a loss for words at his commanding presence.

Bennett's gaze narrowed as he moved towards Claudia, Lightly brushing her hair.

“Weren't you supposed to be performing today?"

A flustered Claudia met Bennett's gaze. "I... I won't be performing."

“why ?"*

His calm voice contrasted his intense stare.

Claudia fiddled with her fingers and said, "They have sufficient performers."

She couldn't bring herself to tell him she'd been kicked out.

“That's not true!" Joann blurted out, interrupting their conversation. Afterward, she tentatively told Bennett, "Mr. Dreskin, Claudia was mistreated today."

When Bennett heard this, a glint of coldness and cruelty flickered in his dark eyes. However, when he gazed at Claudia, his eyes returned to their usual state. "My wife was mistreated?"

Claudia's cheeks reddened in embarrassment upon hearing this. Truthfully, she wished Bennett to remain uninvolved in this issue. However, Joann had already narrated the entire incident, fuelled by a sense of righteous indignation, before Claudia could utter a word.

Bennett took a moment to observe Claudia before responding, “Understood. When is this event due to start?"

Sensing that Bennett was preparing to defend Claudia, Joann quickly answered, "It starts in half an hour."

"I need to make a call," Bennett informed Claudia.

Then he took out his phone and walked aside.

Uncertainty gripped Joann about Bennett's intentions. However, her heart fluttered when she learned that Bennett intended to call someone.

“Claudia, it seems Mr. Dreskin is stepping in on your behalf. Maybe we don't need to leave after all.”