Lilah's phone buzzed. It was a call from Mirello's head office. The caller had a voice that was irresistibly alluring. "I had a feeling you'd nail it."

“I always aim to live up to your expectations," Lilah responded, her tone earnest.

The man laughed softly, his voice dripping with charm. “Everything?”

“Absolutely.”

“Then, brace yourself. I'm heading to Hualand for you." His voice was like a sweet serenade, utterly captivating.

“Count on me to make Aurora Jewelers the premier jewelry brand in Hualand," Lilah vowed.

A hint of a sigh echoed before the line went dead.

Glancing at the clock, Lilah realized the night had crept on her.

Opting for convenience, she settled into her office for the night.

Suddenly, there was a knock on the door and the assistant came in.

“Why are you still here?" Lilah questioned, a bit taken aback.

The assistant gave a grin. “I was just wrapping up but noticed you received a delivery. It's from the renowned Horizon Hotel, no less."

Upon inspection, Lilah found a card nestled within, bearing a simple "congratulations."

Curious, Lilah reached out to Effie and Ruby for any insights.

It was Ruby who eventually responded, "That's from me. Word got out about Aurora's impressive sales today. Since I couldn't openly endorse you due to my contract, I wanted to show support in another way. Cheers, Lilah."

Touched, Lilah quickly typed back, “Thank you."

Ruby's prompt reply came, “Anytime. If it pleases you, expect more in the future."

Ruby then opened the photo Lilah had shared. The prominent Horizon Hotel logo on the meal box caught her eye, and her smile began to wane.

The Horizon Hotel's dishes were known to be exclusive and top-notch.

Ruby surmised, it must've been Gerard's doing.

Her phone's shrill ring interrupted her thoughts. Her agent was calling. "The sales figures between Aurora and Xavier are out.

Aurora's numbers are extraordinary. I did suggest endorsing Aurora back then, but you were adamant about Xavier. Consequently, Effie now has the upper hand. She's rapidly becoming a gem in the jewelry endorsement arena. Rumor has it, high-end brands are already vying for her as their face."

A tinge of regret laced the agent's voice.

Ruby responded calmly, “This is just the initial round. Trust me, Evelyn won't back down that easily."