Aline entertained the notion of approaching Rena, but the four vigilant bodyguards promptly intervened, obstructing her path

Her actions drew the attention of onlookers.

Flushed with embarrassment, Aline clenched her teeth and muttered, “Rena, let's wait and see!" With those words, she turned on her heel and left.

Meanwhile, Rena resumed her reading, seemingly unperturbed.

Outside, Aline contacted Joseph, demanding, “Where are you?"

Due to Aline's interference, Joseph had ended his relationship with Vera. He responded indignantly, “It is none of your business! Aline, I've made myself clear."

Aline lowered her gaze and adopted a seductive smile.

"Let's meet." Joseph hesitated, eventually agreeing to rendezvous at a five-star hotel.

Afterward, following two encounters, Joseph emerged from a shower, draped in a bathrobe, and sat anxiously on the sofa, smoking.

Aline sneered inwardly

She was well aware of his inner turmoil. He yearned to win back Vera's forgiveness, yet couldn't resist the temptation of Aline's body.

From the depths of her heart, she held Joseph in contempt. Nonetheless, she had a favor to ask of him. She draped herself in a bath towel and pressed her body against his shoulder, saying, “There's a piano performance scheduled for the school's anniversary. It's a rare chance to make such an appearance."

Joseph smoked in silence.

Unsure whether he would be cooperative or not, Aline had no other option but to seek his help.

After a protracted silence, Joseph stubbed out his cigarette and offered a faint smile.

“For your efforts today, I'll assist you.” However, he continued, “Aline, you still don't grasp the intricacies of the upper echelons in Duefron. Our status is worlds apart. You can't fathom the influence of the Fowler family. Do you really want me to compete with Waylen? Do you think I have an easy Life?"

Aline dismissed his concerns as exaggeration. Joseph stood up, discarding his bathrobe and beginning to don his clothes.

In the midst of dressing, he spoke casually.

“Put differently, no one from our generation dares to challenge Waylen.”

As Joseph contemplated the subtle changes in Waylen's demeanor, he patted Aline's cheek and left behind a wad of money.

Infuriated and humiliated, Aline tossed the money back at him.

She couldn't accept this!