Iker stood beside Adaline, his face a mix of shock and relief.

"Lilah? You're... still alive?"

His gaze lingered on Lilah, searching her face.

She had vanished five years prior, leaving a void that Iker had guiltily assumed was permanent. However, her return revealed a more poised and alluring Lilah, her allure almost magnetic.

Adaline's eyes narrowed, detecting Iker's prolonged gaze.

That woman! Barely back and already ensnaring Iker's attention!

Fueled by jealousy, Adaline's mind began plotting.

Feigning exuberance, Adaline clasped Lilah's hand. "It's wonderful to have you back, Lilah. We've missed you. What kept you away for so long?"

Lilah, visibly irritated, retracted her hand. But before she could respond, Adaline, in a theatrical move, tumbled to the floor, tears brimming in her eyes. “Do you still resent me, Lilah? I was hopelessly in love with Iker. If you wish, I'd leave and give Iker back to you."

Such a display would undoubtedly tug at many a heartstring.

Iker's expression hardened. Offering Adaline a helping hand, he turned to Lilah. "I hoped you had matured, Lilah. Why are you still so rude? Adaline's dedication to the company in your absence was unwavering. Instead of gratitude, you resort to such pettiness and violence? Apologize."

"Violence?" Lilah smirked, abruptly yanking Adaline by the collar.

With a nudge and a kick, Adaline toppled over, grimacing in pain.

“Now, that's violence," Lilah stated coldly. "Adaline, holding up the company is commendable. But this man..." She gestured at Iker. “He still isn't trained well, I see. And you're offering this trash to me? Am I a charity?"

Iker's face contorted with rage. "Who are you calling trash, Lilah?"

Lilah raised an eyebrow. "If the shoe fits. Do you need a mirror to recognize yourself? Tragic."

Iker retorted, "You've certainly changed, haven't you? A few years away, and you return with an even sharper tongue."

Lilah shot back, “I've evolved, unlike some. Problem?"

Iker was left speechless.

Adaline, realizing Iker hadn't assisted her, pulled herself up, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears. "Lilah, please spare Iker. Your animosity toward us... It's evident it's rooted in your feelings for him."

Iker, piecing things together, believed Lilah's demeanor was a tactic for his attention.

Exhaling, he said, "Your games won't work on me, Lilah. While you were away, Adaline has been making strides. She's now partnering with L.P, a true prodigy in jewelry design. And you? You may have been a standout in jewelry design once, but now? I doubt you could even compete."

Adaline lifted her chin, masking her pride with faux modesty. "I might not be extraordinary, but my collaboration with L.P has drawn attention across Eleywood. Lilah, I know you'd like to be part of tonight's event. Why don't you accompany me as my assistant?"

"She's offering you a lifeline," Iker said with a sneer. "This event is exclusive. Not just anyone can attend."