"Mr. Lewis, keen on a public spectacle today?" Lilah's voice was frigid, slicing through the air.

Iker halted, and then exhaled a sigh. “Lilah, you're still upset about what happened before, I see."

“Upset? No, that's where you're wrong. I'm not upset. Your presence just revolts me," Lilah retorted.

"That's just because you've still got feelings for me!" Iker asserted with unwavering confidence. "You sent that recording because you wanted me to end things with Adaline, didn't you? Well, you got your wish. I'm no longer with her. How about we give it another shot?"

Lilah's icy stare swept over him. "The only reason you're not wearing your drink is out of respect for the birthday celebration. Next time, I won't be so considerate."

Iker was about to respond when a friendly voice chimed in, “Lilah, there you are! I've been searching everywhere for you!"

Brenda, having made her way over, greeted Lilah with warmth and looped her arm through hers. “Come with me, dear. I have someone I'd like you to meet."

And with that, she whisked Lilah away.

As they navigated the hall, Brenda inquired, “Was that man troubling you?"

Lilah responded with a truthful nod.

Anger flitted across Brenda's face. "The audacity of young men these days! They lack the chivalry and decency that my son exemplifies.

Come, let me introduce you to him."

Though innocent in many ways, Lilah grasped Brenda's underlying plan.

“I have to apologize, Brenda, but I'm already committed to someone,"

Lilah confessed gently.

A shadow of sorrow, tinged with disappointment, crossed Brenda's features. “Is that so?"

As Lilah nodded, she felt a pang of guilt for the sadness in Brenda's eyes.

Nevertheless, Brenda recovered with a robust laugh. “Well, introductions are harmless, right? No harm in just meeting my son."

Reluctantly, Lilah allowed herself to be guided to a secluded corner.

She was determined not to inflict more pain on Brenda and reasoned she could clarify everything to Brenda's son later.

Midway, Brenda paused. "Go ahead, dear. I'll leave you two to talk.

There are still guests I must attend to."

Lilah proceeded alone. Ahead, a luxurious sofa cradled a man whose striking profile was turned away from her.

As she drew closer, she initiated, "Hello, are you Brenda's son? I apologize, but I'm already involved with..."