She recognized him from online profiles as a young, notably eligible entrepreneur in his thirties.

The man, anticipating this moment, stopped Alicia.

“Ms. Bennett, this way, please.”

Alicia was taken aback.

“Are you here personally just to greet me?”

“For you, Ms. Bennett, of course.” His look was gentle.

“I hold you in great esteem, Ms. Bennett. Could we perhaps have a private word?”

Alicia paused, smiling.

“If it’s urgent, we can talk here. I need to finalize the payment first. Then I’ll treat you to dinner. Would that be suitable for you?”

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She skillfully shifted the decision back to him, making it seem as though he was leading, while she kept control.

As a gentleman, he had no other option.

A private conversation would have to wait for another day.

But he changed the topic. “There’s no hurry for the payment. It’s only a piece of jewelry. If you like it, Ms. Bennett, I’d be happy to gift it to you.”

Not far away, Caden, who had already settled his bill, exited and watched them with a frosty stare.

He stood casually, one hand in his pocket, his sleeves rolled up to his elbows, showcasing prominent veins.

His face was unreadable.

He silently observed the interaction.

Alicia, maintaining her smile, graciously declined the man’s offer.

His tone was warm and inviting. “I have no ulterior motives in offering you the jewelry, Ms. Bennett. I simply wish to be friends. I understand you spent 200 million dollars today perhaps to get back at Mr. Ward, which really wasn’t necessary or worthwhile.”

Alicia responded, “The gift is too generous, and I must decline it. Furthermore, our business interests don’t align, so I doubt we’ll have much chance to work together in the future.”

The man presented her with his business card.

“I’m currently looking to invest in fine art. Might I have an opportunity, Ms. Bennett?”

Alicia lowered her gaze.

She handled him as she would any client. “You flatter me. Unfortunately, I’m not in a position to offer you that opportunity.”

Seeing an opening, the man extended his hand courteously.