"Why are you still standing there? Get lost!" Felix said.

Not daring to stay any longer, Jared bowed respectfully and retreated. He knew that staying would only lead to more humiliation.

"That slap made me like you even more," said Deborah, a smile spreading across her face. The more she looked at Felix, the more satisfied she felt. That decisive slap earlier had truly earned her favor.

To her, his actions were akin to alchemy. He knew exactly what to do at every step, acting with precision instead of hesitation. Without such quick thinking and composure, one could never hope to master the art of alchemy at its highest level.

Since she had already intervened, the initial two slaps clearly signaled that neither Jared nor his family were worth her time. With that assurance, Felix had no reason to fear or worry anymore.

"Thank you for coming, Madam Goddard. Please, come inside. I have something I'd like to discuss with you."

Felix was well aware that Jared wouldn't let this go easil