Anthony had already grasped the general situation from Meggie's account. "Nydia, if you break something, you have to compensate for it. Since the boss has already itemized the damages, pay the money first."
In the Austi family, Nydia was afraid of no one except Anthony. Seeing his displeased expression, Nydia didn't dare say anything more and quickly handed over the money.
After confirming the payment, Meggie looked at Nydia and said, "And about the elderly gentleman inside, if Miss Wagner doesn't handle it, I'll call an ambulance."
When Anthony heard the words "elderly gentleman," his expression grew even darker.
Nydia dared not breathe heavily, nor did she dare to speak casually.
"Why haven't you called the ambulance?" Anthony said sternly, addressing Nydia.
Nydia felt embarrassed for a moment but eventually called for an ambulance.
After receiving the money, Meggie didn't linger. She greeted the staff in the restaurant and went straight upstairs.
After watching Meggie leave, Anthony turned to Jesse and Nydia and said in a low voice, "Both of you, come with me."
Nydia glanced at Jesse's face and followed Anthony out of the door.
Jesse followed behind them.
As they exited the private restaurant, Anthony raised his hand and slapped Nydia across the face.
This slap was much heavier than the one Yanis had given Nydia earlier.
Jesse had initially intended to explain the situation, but Anthony's sudden slap left him bewildered, unsure of how to react.
Having been with Nydia for so long, Jesse knew well about Anthony's position in the Austi family and the fear he instilled in Nydia.
"Nydia, you've really outdone yourself! You've tarnished the reputation of the Austi family single-handedly!" Anthony's decision to forgo another slap was already giving Nydia face.
Nydia never expected Anthony would actually lay hands on her.
But when she thought about what she had done, Nydia didn't dare to argue. She simply covered her face, tears streaming down.
After admonishing Nydia, Anthony turned to Jesse, who was standing on the side.
Jesse had been with Nydia for several years, and both sides' parents had met.
Although Nydia was willful, the Austi family members were reasonable and didn't discriminate based on social status. They didn't look down on Jesse just because of his background.
Moreover, when Nydia brought Jesse back to the Austi family, Anthony happened to be away, so he didn't object, thinking Jesse was suitable.
During their time together, Anthony had witnessed Jesse's treatment of Nydia, always accommodating her every need. The Pascalls treated Nydia as if she were Jesse's wife. It could be said that both Jesse and the Pascalls treated Nydia well.
But now Nydia had done something that Anthony never expected.
If Nydia had fallen in love with someone else, that would have been one thing. However, it was Meggie's mention of the "elderly gentleman" that angered Anthony.
The Austi family was not short on money, and they had never denied Nydia anything she wanted. Almost everything she desired was provided for her.
Additionally, Nydia was the youngest and most favored member of the Austi family. So, most of the things she wanted were usually fulfilled.
But now she had done such a thing, truly disappointing everyone.
After locking eyes with Jesse, Anthony took the initiative to take some responsibility. "Mr. Anthony, it's my fault too. I neglected Nydia because of work, and that's why..."
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