But the man accompanying Adaline wasn't Iker.

Lilah narrowed her eyes. Adaline was truly a woman full of surprises.

Lilah was reminded of the ongoing situation at the Phillips Group.

Once dinner was over and they got back, Jerrold was already fast asleep. Lilah retreated to her own home and dialed Matthew's number.

“Lilah, it's been a while since you called," Matthew remarked.

“Are you planning to use the Phillips Group as Adaline's wedding gift?"

Lilah asked directly.

“Where did you hear that?"

"Adaline herself," Lilah responded, her voice firm. "You should know that the company isn't yours."

Matthew's irritation was evident. “Firstly, the company is under my management. And I'm doing this for the good of the Phillips Group.

Our profits have been dismal this year. Without support from the Lewis Group, we're at risk of decline."

“If that's the case, then hand the company over to me."

"You reach out after so long only to demand the company?" Matthew's anger flared. “Dream on!"

With that, he disconnected the call.

However, despite hanging up, Matthew remained perturbed. To him, Lilah's tone was more akin to that of a debt collector than a daughter.

“Did Lilah call again?" Helga inquired, noting her husband's displeasure.

"Yes, and as usual, she wants to take over the company," Matthew grumbled. "She may be young, but she's always so eager to manage the business."

Helga sighed, "Both you and your father used to indulge her too much.

That's why she acts so entitled. Moreover, she doesn't realize how tough it is to run a business. Without the Lewis Group, our company might falter."

Matthew nodded in agreement. "She's so out of touch. I won't let her near the company, especially since no witnesses were left after what happened to Dad's lawyer. I had originally intended to give her a share of the profits once the Lewis Group stepped in. But now, she'll get nothing from me."

"You've made the right call, dear," Helga affirmed.

As the night deepened, word spread about the impending alliance between the Phillips and Lewis families through marriage.

With rumors suggesting the young couple had been together for a few years, many extended their blessings.

Soon, candid shots from the shoe store surfaced on social media, showcasing the affection between Iker and Adaline.