Since her entrance, Karol had kept her gaze fixed on Gerard, determined to showcase her radiant beauty.

However, he didn't even spare her a glance.

Karol felt a mixture of anxiety and anger. She clattered down the stairs in her stilettos. As she neared Gerard, she deliberately stumbled.

Just as it seemed she'd fall into his arms, he abruptly stood.

"Lilah, would you like some milk?"

Caught off guard, Karol tripped over the chair back, landing with a gasp. Her elbow throbbed, turning a sickly blue.

Lilah, unable to contain herself, burst into laughter.

"This competition seems really important to you," Lilah said, taking a sip of the milk Gerard offered. "But you have to change clothes before we go in, right? Isn't that a bit of a hassle?"

The sweetness was perfect, and it complemented the toast nicely.

“Think of it as a war pep talk. Besides, a girl should take care of herself. It's not about being lazy or skipping makeup every day, you know?" Karol replied with a forced smile.

It was clear she was taking a jab at Lilah's casual style and unromantic demeanor.

Lilah nodded in agreement. "True enough."

She lowered her head and kept eating. The ceremony promised to be lengthy; she had to fuel up.

Karol felt a surge of victory. She finally won a round!

With Gerard present, she maintained her perfect image by picking at her breakfast. She barely took a few bites.

When it was time to leave, Karol originally planned to drive herself.

But with Gerard there, she insisted they share a ride.

It made sense after all, since they were both headed to the venue.

Upon arrival, Briseis, dressed in unisex attire, greeted them with her usual outgoing personality. Around Lilah, she was even more unrestrained.

As soon as Lilah stepped out of the car, Briseis rushed over and engulfed her in a hug before Gerard could even react.

“Let go of her," Gerard growled, his expression hardening as he took in Briseis' unconventional appearance.

Briseis, taken aback, looked to Lilah for help.

“It's okay, Gerard. This is Briseis, a friend I met abroad," Lilah said with a smile. “Briseis, this is Gerard, a friend too."

She introduced him but left the details out.