Chapter 6 Gerard Arrives

The surrounding crowd struggled to stifle their laughter.

Why hadn't Iker procured the genuine piece earlier if his intentions were sincere?

As Iker's face drained of color, Adaline's embarrassment became palpable. Her eyes darted to the brooch on Lilah's chest, seizing it as an opportunity to shift the narrative. "So, Lilah, you joined Aurora Jewelers immediately upon returning? Are you still harboring resentment for the past and your pregnancy out of wedlock?"

The murmured phrase "pregnancy out of wedlock" shifted the mood in the room.

Iker snapped back to attention, his voice sharpening with anger. "Lilah, reconsider your decisions. As a Phillips, how can you associate with our competitor?"

"You once pledged your love to me, yet you betrayed me with Adaline." Lilah's voice was laced with sarcasm, her eyes narrowing with veiled contempt.

The crowd's attention pivoted to Iker and Adaline, the air thick with tension. Many couldn't reconcile the angelic facade Adaline presented with the private improprieties Lilah hinted at.

Flushing furiously, Adaline retorted, "How dare you slander me, Lilah? You carried another man's child and refused to end the pregnancy. It left Iker no option but to end your engagement!"

She cast a desperate glance at Iker, seeking affirmation.

Meeting Lilah's unwavering gaze, Iker hesitated momentarily before confirming, "That's correct."

Lilah wasn't surprised. She had been too naive back then. Any lingering sentiment she held for him evaporated.

Five youthful years, gone, all based on deceit.

The attending elite, sensing the rising tension, swiftly distanced themselves from the scene to avoid further entanglement in the unfolding drama.

Amid the escalating tension, a wealthy young man approached Lilah. Drawn to her captivating beauty and figure, he presumptuously attempted to encircle her waist.

"Sweetheart, there's no need for sorrow. In my opinion, your figure is superior to Adaline's. It's hard to believe you've had a child. I have a business proposal for you."

His forward advance was cut short as Lilah swiftly seized his wrist. The force of her grip sent a sharp pain shooting up his arm, making him wince.

Meeting his gaze, her eyes glinted with a frosty determination. "Your self-esteem might be high, but your manners are lacking."

The man grimaced, retorting, "Enough with the pretense! Everyone's aware of your fallen status. I'm extending you a business opportunity as a favor. Show some gratitude."

Lilah responded with icy composure, "Perhaps you should offer your 'favor' elsewhere. I'm not interested."

With that, she turned to leave.

Incensed by her rebuke, he lunged forward, intent on restraining her.

"Miss Phillips."

A commanding voice sliced through the tension.

All eyes pivoted to the newcomer. Dressed immaculately in black, his presence emanated an indomitable aura.

It was Gerard.

Whispers spread like wildfire as attendees recognized the influential figure gracing the event with his presence.

To the astonishment of many, his stride took him toward Adaline.

Speculation bubbled amongst the attendees. Was he here to strike a deal with Adaline?

Green with envy, many watched as Adaline's face lit up with evident awe and excitement. It was clear she felt elated by his attention.

Adaline had assumed her allure and skills had captivated Gerard enough to seek her out. Her heart raced with anticipation, and she could barely contain her enthusiasm.

When he neared, she endeavored to present her most captivating smile, greeting, "Mr. Harris, it's a pleasure."

Yet, without so much as an acknowledgment, Gerard sidestepped Adaline, halting before Lilah.

"I hope I'm not intruding. I have a business proposition for you, should you be interested." His voice resonated with a depth and timbre reminiscent of a finely-tuned instrument, compelling and soothing.

Adaline was visibly stunned, her rosy hue draining away as she processed the unfolding scene.

Equally taken aback, Lilah simply nodded in acknowledgment, choosing a nearby sofa to settle into.

A palpable tension enveloped the room. The audacious young man who had brazenly approached Lilah earlier now stood trembling, riddled with regret. He didn't expect that Lilah and Gerard shared some form of acquaintance.