“Miss Morris, it seems you have a particular disdain for my fiancée," Gerard interjected coolly, wrapping an arm around Lilah, drawing her close.

His intervention displayed their closeness, which only fueled Karol's animosity further.

"It doesn't matter who invited me, but I understand that you've staked a lot on this competition. Imagine if you were to lose to me. That would be quite embarrassing for you, wouldn't it?" Lilah asked.

Karol scoffed, her voice thick with scorn. "You think too highly of yourself.

It's impossible for me to lose to you. But since you're so confident, remember, if you lose, don't run to Gerard for comfort."

Lilah, stung by the barb but undeterred, shot back with equal measure. "You speak of comfort as if you have someone waiting to console you. Why bring that up?"

Karol's remark had struck a nerve, but Lilah wasn't one to shy away from confrontation. She knew relationships weren't built on shows of strength or public displays. However, Karol's direct challenge left her no choice but to stand her ground and respond in kind.

"You're talking the talk. Let's see if you can walk the walk," Karol snapped.

When she turned her gaze to Gerard, her expression softened. "Gerard, the perfume I'm using for this contest isn't on the market yet. Would you like to try it?"

She giggled, her voice tinged with pride. “I'm offering this privilege just to you."

"I'm not interested in perfume," Gerard replied coldly. "I only use the perfumes my fiancée likes. If she likes your perfume, then I might consider trying it."

He found conversations with Karol tedious. Her ambition was palpable, and she often got ahead of herself. A sharp retort from him usually bought a period of peace.

Frustrated and unable to come up with a comeback, Karol made an excuse and walked away in dismay.

Once she was gone, Gerard turned to Lilah. “Are you heading backstage?"

"Yes. Since when have I become your fiancée?" Lilah quipped.

Raising an eyebrow, Gerard asked, "Do you plan to marry someone else?"

"I didn't say that," Lilah teased. "But if you don't put in the effort, maybe I will."

"I dare you!" Gerard challenged.

"No, no. I'm not that bold," Lilah replied with a chuckle, skilled at flirting then fleeing. Patting him on the shoulder, she added, "I need to go backstage. You'll see the surprise when I win the prize."

"You're that confident of winning, huh?"

"Don't you believe it?"

"I believe you will." Gerard nodded. “I've already arranged a celebration party for you."

"I won't let your plans fall through."

With a wave, Lilah bid him goodbye and headed backstage. As soon as she settled into her seat, the Lounge door swung open. She turned to see a woman in her 30s, her hair elegantly coiled atop her head, wearing a dress that accentuated her curves.