Revenge is best served cold

Eric turned back at just the right moment. "Of course. I'm definitely better than some people who freeload and make Jane's life more difficult." He ignored Levi's indignant reaction and looked at me. "One of my business partners needs to discuss a project with me. Wait for me here."

I nodded and watched him leave.

Levi scoffed. "Seriously? Did he tell you to wait for him? Who does he think he is?"

I raised a hand and gave him a light pat. "Don't be so hostile toward him. After all, he has helped us."

Levi remained unimpressed. "Jane, trust me, he definitely has an agenda."

I glanced at Eric's retreating figure and, for once, didn't refute him.

An agenda? Maybe.

But wasn't I hiding my own motives too?

Levi waved a hand in front of my face, pulling me from my thoughts. "Jane, want me to take a photo of you?"

I instinctively shook my head. "No, thanks."

Levi had been one of the best photographers since university. Even before LunaGlo, he had already made a name for himself in Caldera. In fact, when LunaGlo was first established, many of the studio's breakout works were shot by him.

But standing in front of a camera made me uneasy. Maybe it was a lingering effect of being married to Jeremiah for years. Somewhere along the way, I had lost my confidence.

Levi noticed my hesitation and pulled up an old photo of me from university.

Back then, we participated in a design competition. Since we didn't have a model, we had to step up ourselves. This photo was taken during that runway show.

Years had passed since then. The confidence and boldness I once had were gradually worn away under Jeremiah's influence.

Levi didn't say anything and just looked at me quietly.

Understanding his silent encouragement, I nodded and pointed toward the garden outside the banquet hall. "Let's take the photos outside. I heard they set up the decorations beautifully."

As we left the banquet hall, I caught a glimpse of a familiar white silhouette.

I knew it—Elsa wouldn't rest until she caused trouble for me tonight.

As expected, the garden was tastefully decorated. The winding pebble path was adorned with small purple- black flowers. All around, signature works from various designers were displayed. They were illuminated under the warm glow of dim golden lights, which gave them an almost divine radiance.

"Jane, stand here by the floral wall. I'll check the angles over there," Levi said.

Levi positioned me in front of the floral wall while he walked a few steps away to adjust the camera.

I stayed put, trying to pose but feeling a bit awkward.

Seeing my hesitation, Levi shook his head. He was just about to walk over when he suddenly stopped in his tracks. Following his gaze, I spotted Elsa approaching with a glass of red wine.

The night had deepened, and the dim outdoor lighting cast long shadows. Levi's spot was especially dark.

Dressed in a deep navy suit, he blended almost seamlessly into the night.

Elsa didn't notice him. Thinking I was alone, she approached with a falsely concerned expression. "Where are your knights in shining armor, Jane? Why are you all alone?"

I glanced at her. "Say what you need to say and get to the point."

Despite my cold tone, her smile remained intact.

She swirled the wine in her glass, speaking in a soft, delicate voice. "Jane, today was my fault. I came to apologize."

Then, she reached up and lightly dabbed at the corners of her eyes. Her voice trembled as if she were on the verge of tears. "I almost embarrassed our family today. Luckily, you were there."

"So?" I remained unmoved. I turned my head away, making no effort to hide the disgust in my eyes. "I've already told you. If you don't want to be thrown out of this banquet, then leave now."

She looked even more pitiful now, but instead of backing away, she took another step closer.