Celine had been married before, but was now divorced. "Of course, I'm going to pursue her," Randall said confidently.

"It seems you have strong feelings for Celine," the senior teased.

"Celine is special. She's unlike any other girl I've ever met," Randall replied.

The two walked away. Celine had overheard everything. She knew about Randall's feelings and had purposely mentioned her past marriage at the barbecue to discourage him.

Just then, a sharp pain shot through her delicate chin. Adam tightened his grip.

Celine frowned. "You're hurting me."

Adam smirked. "I didn't expect you to be so charming." He'd seen many men pursue her; Randall was among the most prominent, yet he remained captivated, even knowing about her past marriage. Celine snatched back her phone. "No matter how charming I am, I still can't win you over, can I?"

She turned to leave, but a strong arm wrapped around her waist, pulling her back against his chest. Her body was pressed tightly against his, separated only by thin fabric.

Celine struggled. "Mr. Alvarez, what are you doing? If you don't stop, I'll scream!"

"Wait, Celine. Have we met before?" Adam asked suddenly.

Celine froze. Adam produced a photograph—one of her standing in a shop window, her reflection visible. Her eyes widened. How had he obtained this photo?

"Celine, have we met before?" he repeated.

Her mind raced. She hadn't expected him to have this picture. How should she respond? Did he truly not remember what happened in the cave? She hesitated, torn between revealing their past and keeping it secret. However, he was with Carly now, and he loved Carly.

Celine pushed against his chest, struggling. "Does this question really matter?"

As she twisted, her movements stirred something in Adam. His breathing grew heavier, his hand gripping her waist tightly.

His voice was hoarse. "Celine, I want to know how long you've liked me."

Celine wondered if he was mocking her, but refused to give him the chance. She stood on tiptoe and bit his lip.

Adam hissed in pain. Blood seeped from the corner of his mouth. He swallowed hard, murmuring, "Don't bite me here. Someone might see."

It had been a long time since Celine had heard that tone from him—soft, indulgent, and laced with desire.

She released him and stepped back. Adam's gaze burned into her. "You've become quite fierce, haven't you?"

Celine glared. "I've always been fierce. I only toned it down to accommodate you, to match your blandness." Her eyes held a mix of grievance and flirtation. Adam lowered his head and kissed her.

Celine's mind went blank. Since their divorce, she hadn't been this close to him. She tried to pull away, but his hand held the back of her head, his presence overwhelming her. His lips parted hers, drawing her in. Since he hadn't eaten much at the barbecue, Celine could taste his familiar, clean, and refined flavor.

The final numerical sequence appears to be unrelated to the text and has been omitted.