Hailey's cheerful face appeared on the screen. "Boy, was it last night with Mr. Alvarez?" she asked, wiggling her eyebrows mischievously.

Celme smiled lightly. "Hailey, why aren't you back yet?"

"I didn't want to disturb you and Mr. Alvarez. I don't want to be a third wheel," Hailey replied. She added, "Celine, Mr. Alvarez was so decisive with Nikki this time. I think he likes you. You two have… become a real couple. I really hope you both live a peaceful and happy life together."

Celine didn't know how to respond. She unwrapped a piece of candy and popped it into her mouth. As the sweetness spread, she said with a faint smile, "I understand, Hailey. Come back soon."

After ending the video call, Celine sat on her bed and took out the emerald necklace hidden under her pillow. She traced its edges with her delicate fingers. A soft, melodic ringtone interrupted her thoughts. It was Adam calling. She lowered her eyelashes slightly before answering. His deep, magnetic voice came through the receiver.

"Do you have time now?" he asked.

"Yes," she replied softly.

"I'm waiting for you outside the school gate."

His car had already arrived. He was waiting for her.

"Alright," she said.

After hanging up, Celine took something from the table, placed it in her bag, and left her dorm. Outside, the Rolls-Royce Phantom was still parked in the same spot. She opened the passenger door and got in.

"How is Carly?" she asked.

Adam's long, slender fingers rested on the steering wheel. His features were refined and cold. "Her emotions are still unstable, and with her heart condition acting up recently, the situation isn't looking good."

She said nothing. He turned his head, his gaze falling on her delicate profile. "Celine, let's get a divorce."

The sentence echoed in her mind. She wasn't surprised. She curled her lips faintly. She would inevitably lose whenever Carly cried. Between her and Carly, he had chosen Carly without hesitation. She had known his decision back at the hospital. Their marriage should have ended long ago. Today, it was finally time.

She nodded. "Okay."

Adam tightened his grip on the steering wheel. "You can ask for anything you want in the divorce settlement."

"No need," she interrupted. "What you've already given me is enough. I don't need anything else."

He took out a black card embossed with gold and handed it to her. "This is for you. Take it. It's what you deserve."

A large hand was gripping her heart tightly, painfully. She had given him her body, a compensation in return. No matter how passionate their relationship seemed, it was just a transaction to him. It was something that could be settled.

Her clear, almond-shaped eyes fixed on his handsome face as she finally voiced the question she had been suppressing: "Adam, have you ever liked me?"