Chapter 485

Police Arrive

Brielle’s jaw nearly hit the floor. “Seriously, how do people like that even walk among us?”

“It’s a big world out there–all kinds of characters,” Arabella replied, keeping her tone even. “Just stay cool.”

“That’s just it–weirdos like that usually come in pairs, and you managed to run into both of them!” Brielle shook her head in disbelief. “What are the odds?”

Arabella shrugged innocently. “Wasn’t by choice.”

“Arabella, you still have the nerve to stand there and act smug? Apologize to Harper right now!” Dylan snapped, his voice sharp.

Brielle just let out a short laugh. “You know what, since they clearly don’t get it… why don’t we just let the law handle them?”

Catching the determined glint in Brielle’s eyes, Arabella nodded slowly. “Alright. Let’s do it your way.”

“Call the police,” Brielle said, turning toward security. Her expression turned stern. “Keep an eye on them -don’t let anyone leave.”

“You can’t just have us arrested!” Harper shot back, her voice rising.

Brielle’s smile was icy. “You might want to think about how much trouble you’re in–defamation, slander, attempted assault… it adds up.”

Done with the back–and–forth, Brielle looped her arm through Arabella’s and brightened instantly. “Come on, let’s grab dessert. The pastries here are amazing–way better than dealing with this mess.”

“Sure.” Arabella found herself genuinely warming to Brielle’s energy.

The two made their way toward the refreshment tables, leaving the scene behind.

“Arabella! Get back here! You don’t just walk away–explain yourself!” Harper shouted, furious.

“No need to rush.” Ethan’s calm voice cut through the tension, sending a chill through the air. “You’ll have plenty of time to explain everything to the police.”

“Mr. Ethan, we’ve already notified the authorities. Security can manage here—would you like to wait somewhere more comfortable?” the event coordinator asked carefully, visibly stressed.

Ethan didn’t budge. “I’ll stay. I want to see this through.”

Hearing that, the coordinator didn’t push further. He turned toward Matthew. “Mr. Stewart, perhaps you’d like to take a seat while we wait?”

Matthew’s reply was cool and clipped. “The police will be here shortly.”

“Right… yes, any minute now.” Internally, the coordinator was counting the seconds until they arrived.

He glanced toward the main entrance, hoping to see flashing lights any moment.

“What a mess,” someone nearby murmured.

“I can’t believe they tried to call out Mr. Ethan. He could ruin them without lifting a finger.

“Exactly. Cross the wrong person, and you face the consequences.”

Whispers and stares circled the small group.

Harper’s cheeks burned with humiliation. She’d never felt so exposed.

“Uncle, they’re all taking Arabella’s side–what do we do now?” she muttered under her breath.

Calvin shot her a weary look. “Your mother always did coddle you too much.”

He sighed quietly. She really hadn’t learned a thing.

“Why is this suddenly my fault?” Harper snapped.

“Can we not do this right now?” Dylan cut in, irritated.

“Hmph.” Calvin shook his head. “What exactly do you want me to say?”

It was too late for damage control. The whole evening had been wasted.

“Fine, don’t help then,” Dylan said, pulling out his phone. “Mom, send someone to get us. We’re being targeted here… Yeah, hurry up.”

He hung up and reassured Harper, “Don’t worry. My parents are on their way.”

“Fools,” Calvin muttered, turning to leave. “I’m not sticking around for this embarrassment.”

“Stay where you are.” A security guard stepped in his path.

“Look, I admit I misjudged the situation. What they did has nothing to do with me–can’t I just walk away?” Calvin pleaded, desperate to distance himself.

He’d realized the girl’s brother was someone with real influence. No sense dragging everyone down together.

“I’m afraid not. Everyone stays until the police arrive.”

Calvin’s face fell. He was growing more anxious by the minute.

Just as the tension peaked, sirens sounded outside, and soon officers entered the hall.

“Finally,” the coordinator breathed out in relief, moving quickly to meet them.

He walked the officers over, summarizing the situation in low, urgent tones.

2/3

Chapter 485 Police Arrive

“So these are the individuals involved? one officer asked, scanning the group.

“No–they’re the ones who scammed everyone! I was trying to expose them, but people are lying and covering for them. You have to hear my side!” Harper insisted, her voice trembling

“We’ll sort it out down at the station. For now, you’ll all need to come with us, the officer replied evenly.

“You can’t just take us without hearing the facts!” Harper protested, panicking

The coordinator interjected, “We have an event to continue here. Let’s not delay any further.”

“Why only us? This isn’t fair!” Harper cried.

“I’ll accompany them to provide a statement and assist with the investigation,” the coordinator said firmly already tired of the drama.

They’d caused the scene–now they could face the consequences.