Ruby returned to her room, but her mind remained on Nicolas. She stared at her reflection in the mirror, catching her emotional breath. "I won't give up," she muttered softly, reassuring herself. "I'll make Nico see me as more than just a formality."

Meanwhile, elsewhere, Celine sat in her office with a serious expression. Devano, who was sitting in front of her, handed her some files that he had collected. "This is the latest data I got about William's company, Celine. Their biggest weakness is in the investment line. I'm sure we can work our way into this situation."

Celine listened carefully to every word Devano said. Her eyes narrowed,...