A bitter ache welled up in Jenna's chest.

The truth was crystal clear now—in Ethan's eyes, she was no different from those escort girls.

Just as Jenna was about to speak, Gavin stood up abruptly.

His eyes burned with fury as he glared at Jack. "Jack, I don't care how you play around outside, but tonight is my gathering. If you harass Jenna again, get the hell out right now."

Jack turned to Gavin with a mocking smirk. "Gavin, why so protective? Got a thing for her? Fine, if you like her, I'll back off."

Jack's family ran a small business, nothing compared to the Valentines or the Durants.

With his petty wealth, he acted like a big shot, always making passes at pretty women.

Gavin usually ignored his antics.

But tonight, this fool had crossed the line by targeting someone under Ethan's protection.

What infuriated Gavin even more was Jack's audacity to suggest Jenna provide escort services?

Was he asking for death?

What surprised Gavin most was Ethan's silence throughout the ordeal.

Jenna was his friend. Shouldn't he have stepped in when she was being harassed?

Since Ethan wouldn't act, Gavin had to intervene.

He feared Ethan might hold him accountable later.

"Jenna, you should leave," Gavin said firmly.

"Okay." Jenna nodded, casting one last glance at Ethan before walking away.

This time, Jack didn't stop her.

After Jenna left, Calvin spoke up. "Bro, it's not like he wasn't going to pay her. Why make a big deal out of it?"

Brian chimed in, "You're not actually falling for her, are you?"

Gavin's face darkened with rage.

"Enough!" he snapped. "Jenna is off-limits. Show her respect from now on. If any of you dare lay a finger on her, don't blame me for what happens next."

Jack clicked his tongue. "Just admit you like her. Say the word, and I'll back off."

Gavin's voice turned icy. "I stopped you because your behavior disgusts me, not because of any feelings."

Jack scoffed. "What's the problem? If she's an escort, paying for her services is fair game. It's all consensual. We're here to have fun. Is she really worth ruining our friendship over?"

"That kind of woman"?

So Jack truly believed Jenna was an escort.

Ethan, who had remained silent, lit a cigarette and pulled out his phone.

"I don't see why Cardenas Enterprises needs to stay in business," he said calmly into the phone. "You have one hour. I want news of their bankruptcy."

Jack's face drained of color as he stared at Ethan in disbelief.