The theater owner's face contorted with disdain as he spoke to Brendan. "Mr. Brighthall, pay no attention to this nobody's words. I've never met this gentleman before, so why would I let him call the shots in my theater?"

The owner's displeasure was evident, as he valued his reputation and wouldn't tolerate anyone trying to take advantage of him.

"Is that so?" Brendan pretended to be unaware, fully aware of the truth. "So, everything he said about you bowing down to his commands was a lie?"

The owner's gaze turned sharp instantly, his neck turning as red as a beet, a mix of fear and dread.

"No... No..." The man's voice trembled with fear. "I never said such things!"

"Oh?" Brendan raised an eyebrow. "Are you accusing me of defaming you?"

The man's legs gave way in an instant, and despair consumed him.

"No... I didn't... It's..."

Realizing his mistake, he forcefully slapped himself in the face, disregarding the bewildered onlookers. The slaps echoed loudly, leaving red marks on h