Adam glanced at Nikki. Her hand rested on his; he felt the sharp elegance of his own bones and the cold weight of his luxurious watch. His presence was both intimidating and alluring, making her want to touch him, yet hesitate.

Nikki blushed. "Mr. Alvarez," she said, "I gave myself to you willingly that night. It was my first time. Do you remember what happened between us?"

Benjamin sensed something was amiss and started to speak, but the wealthy heirs nearby restrained him.

"Ben," one whispered, "I think Mr. Alvarez and this young lady have something going on. Whoever he favors could be his future wife."

Benjamin, however, only cared about Carly.

Adam looked at Nikki, who seemed both shy and flirtatious. The truth was, he hadn't thought about that night in a long time. His memories were entirely tied to Celine. He remembered a dreamy, passionate moment with her—Celine beneath him, her softness and warmth a unique pleasure. Then, he realized it wasn't Celine who had given him that pleasure; it was Nikki.

Nikki shyly looked at him and continued, "Mr. Alvarez, I don't need a title. I just want to be by your side. Tonight, we could"

Her words were a clear invitation, but Adam remained silent.

Celine entered and immediately saw the scene: Nikki flirting with Adam, who seemed on the verge of succumbing. He had, in fact, brought Nikki to the bar to spend time with her.

Celine's lips curled into a cold smirk. He hadn't changed at all. From Carly to Nikki, he always gravitated toward women who clung to him, while finding her dull and uninteresting.

The bar manager approached, smiling brightly. "Ladies, how many drinks for you?"

Celine's piercing gaze met his. "I don't drink," she replied.

The manager raised an eyebrow. "You come to a bar and don't drink? What would you like to do instead?"

"I want to dance," Celine said.

"What kind of dance?" the manager frowned.

"Pole dance," Celine replied.

In the VIP booth, Nikki watched Adam with eager eyes. He smirked. "Are you addicted to this? Are you so eager to sell yourself again?"

His words hit Nikki like a bucket of ice water, freezing her in place. He didn't look at her again, simply grabbing a new bottle of wine and taking a long swig.

The bar manager stepped onto the stage. "Ladies and gentlemen, we have a special treat tonight at Club 1996: a little temptress to entertain you with a pole dance!"

The wealthy heirs' attention snapped to the stage. One muttered, "Damn, where did that little temptress come from? She's got a killer body."

Another called out, "Mr. Alvarez, look at the stage!"

Adam lazily lifted his gaze. The temptress stood on stage in a black halter dress that clung to her body, the delicate straps resting elegantly on her smooth shoulders. The form-fitting skirt highlighted her curves, and black stockings enhanced her legs. Her face was veiled, but her eyes shone with a mysterious allure.

The crowd erupted in excitement.