Donald remained unfazed. He even propped his feet on the desk, completely dismissing the Aickers' presence.

"Mr. Warren, please release Andrew," Francesca demanded coldly.

"Why should I? A fraud belongs in prison." Donald scoffed.

"Where's your evidence?" Francesca snapped.

Donald replied, "The evidence is for the judge, not for you. Now, all you Aickers better leave my office immediately, or you won't be able to handle the consequences of obstructing justice."

"Mr. Warren, Andrew is not a criminal," Cedric said gravely. "Moreover, he knows Mr. Thatcher personally. You'd better not do anything rash."

Donald sneered. "Doctor, don't try to manipulate me. He's just a nobody—even if he's met the mayor once, does that count as knowing him?"

"Donald, do you really want this to escalate to the mayor's office?" Cedric pressed. "If it comes to that, no one will be able to protect you."

"Cedric, you're being ridiculous," Donald mocked. "As the chief commissioner of Jayrodale's po