The sudden ringtone shattered the silence.

He struggled to rise from the couch, only to collapse back onto it. Gritting his teeth, he finally grabbed the phone.

Gavin Valentine's name flashed on the screen.

He answered the call.

......

Jenna Roland had just reached the stairwell when she nearly collided with Stella Laurent ascending the steps.

"Jenna?" Stella's eyes widened in surprise. "What are you doing here?"

Jenna quickly schooled her expression, forcing a smile. "Just passing through. Don't mind me."

Stella immediately noticed her bloodshot eyes and trembling voice.

"What happened?" Stella reached for her hand.

Jenna pulled away. "Not now."

As she turned, she spotted Ethan Roscente and Gavin descending the stairs.

The chandelier light illuminated Ethan's face with cruel clarity. That intimate nickname echoed in her ears again.

"I'll call you tomorrow." Jenna shook off Stella's grip and fled down the stairs without looking back.

Stella stared after her retreating figure, brow furrowed.

Ethan leaned heavily against Gavin, clearly intoxicated.

"What did she say?" Gavin's voice was dark.

Stella shook her head. "She wouldn't tell me."

Gavin didn't press further, guiding Ethan away.

Stella climbed the stairs and pushed open the door to VIP Room 308.

Lucien Valois lounged at the center of the leather sofa, his pink silk shirt unbuttoned at the collar.

Three black-suited bodyguards stood sentry around the room.

"Mr. Valois." Stella stopped at a respectful distance.

Lucien swirled his whiskey, sharp eyes assessing her. "I thought you and Jenna were close friends."

Stella instantly understood his implication.

"We... haven't spoken recently." Her voice was barely above a whisper.

Lucien chuckled and downed the remaining liquor in one swallow.