Mila decided not to refuse any further. These people were generous with their wealth, and any more polite refusals would only breed dissatisfaction. However, she resolved not to collaborate with them again in the future.
The atmosphere in the place was stifling. The host appeared genteel, yet staying too long in that space made her feel inexplicably pressured, not to mention the faint scent of iron in the air.
It wasn’t fear, exactly, but she certainly didn’t want to linger.
On someone else’s turf, though, she kept her thoughts to herself, responding with nothing more than a polite smile.
Once again blindfolded, Mila was taken down the mountain.
As soon as she reached the bottom, she drove herself into the bustling city for a meal. Miranda called as agreed, but Mila didn’t mention anything about her time on the mountain.
She knew well what should be said and which curiosities were best left unpursued.
Yet, the vaguely familiar face of the man she’d seen lingered in her mind, piquing her curiosity, though she had no intention to delve further.
Not that she needed to. The answer came to her unbidden.
She had barely parked her car in a garage near a lively district and was heading to a restaurant she liked when a vaguely arrogant yet familiar male voice called out to her.
Mila?
She paused, turning to see who it was, her brow already furrowing.
Not far behind her stood a young man dressed in trendy, nonchalant attire. He was undeniably attractive, with an air of carefree charm.
But Mila’s mood soured the moment she saw him.
It was Ryan Lockwood, Lysander’s childhood friend and Giselle’s most devoted admirer.
Ever since they were kids, Ryan had harbored feelings for Giselle. Yet, because Giselle only had eyes for Lysander, and because Lysander was not only his best friend but also so exceptional, Ryan knew he never stood a chance. So, he remained by Giselle’s side, silently admiring her.
She later found out that day had been Giselle’s birthday, and Lysander was out of the country.
After that, Mila stopped trying to be part of Lysander’s world and willingly distanced herself from that circle.
Ryan was simply a madman.
Mila? What are you doing here?
Ryan approached with a scowl, seemingly piecing things together. I know why. You’re stalking Lysander and Giselle, aren’t you? Mila, have some self-respect. You were the one who drove them apart. Now that Giselle’s back, you should step aside gracefully. How dare you show up here and make a scene?
Mila was speechless, mentally labeling him insane, not realizing she said it out loud.
Ryan’s eyes widened in fury as he glared at her. What did you just say?!