"Lilah, do you genuinely believe our grandfather bestowed the company upon you?"

Adaline's gaze flitted toward Lilah, a taunting glimmer in her eyes.

“Without tangible proof, your assertions shall remain shrouded in skepticism."

Lilah had received a solemn promise from her grandfather, assuring her that upon his passing, he would bequeath to her all the shares of their cherished company.

However, with the somber news of her grandfather's departure, an enigmatic occurrence transpired-the lawyer entrusted with his final wishes mysteriously vanished, leaving behind no trace of a will.

In accordance with the laws of Hualand, the company's mantle was thrust upon the shoulders of Matthew. He harbored a distrustful vigilance against her and his reluctance to offer her any position within the company was unmistakable.

Yet, there existed a rationale behind her grandfather's reluctance to place the company in Matthew's care. Matthew's ineptitude in the realm of commerce was no secret; the Phillips Group had endured a relentless descent over the years. Matthew's intent to bestow the company upon Adaline was driven by a singular motive. Should the company find itself teetering on the brink, requiring the Lifebuoy of the Lewis Group's assistance, the Phillips Group would inevitably become a subsidiary under their dominion.

Consequently, the Phillips family would forfeit their managerial authority, relegated to mere recipients of dividends.

Lilah couldn't fathom the squandering of her grandfather's years of labor and dedication.

How dare they!

Meeting Lilah's reproachful gaze, Adaline exuded an air of self-satisfaction.

Merely a short while ago, Lilah had been riding the waves of success.

Her jewelry line enjoyed substantial acclaim and Gerard had been her devoted companion.

Now, despite Lilah's prior achievements, the company remained beyond her grasp and it appeared that Gerard's devotion had waned.

Meanwhile, Adaline maintained her independent enterprise and Iker's affections were a constant source of warmth and care.

"Lilah, were I in your shoes, I might contemplate shedding that air of arrogance and imperiousness. Such a demeanor is not one that endears men," Adaline opined, her words laced with a condescending tone. “Even if Mr. Harris lingers by your side for a time, he shall eventually tire of your disposition."

"My preferences lean toward women of this particular type," Gerard casually cut in.

As Gerard graced the shop with his striking presence, the patrons' was drawn to as the establishment gaze immediately him, though itself had received a benediction.

Even when standing beside Iker, a man of undeniable handsomeness, Gerard managed to eclipse his appeal.

“My apologies for my tardiness," Gerard softly uttered.

His gentle gaze fixed upon Lilah as he inquired, "Have you chosen the pair of shoes that has captured your fancy?"

"Yes, I intend to try these," Lilah replied as she delicately lifted a pair of white high-heeled shoes, their design adorned with a playful and sensuous bowknot at the back.

"Very well, please, have a seat," Gerard offered.

Adaline, observing Gerard's tenderness toward Lilah, was filled with such intense animosity toward Lilah that she clenched her teeth. Yet, upon reflection, she recognized that regardless of how gentle a man from an affluent family might appear, he still occupied a position of privilege. Nevertheless, Iker's considerate nature was a solace to her.