Apple remained seated, smiling as she said, “Mr. York, are you really angry? I was just joking.”

Dylan's expression was icy. “You insult the woman I love right in front of me, and you expect me to thank you with a smile? Ms. Pine, you weren’t joking. In your heart, you truly believe Jen is inferior to you in every way.

“But in reality, you’re the one who falls short of Jen in every aspect. That’s why you’re jealous, why you resent her, and why you seize every chance to belittle her.

“I’m not joking with you.”

“Ms. Pine, whatever your true purpose is today, I have no interest in you. Aside from Jen, no other woman holds any appeal for me. Please leave now.

“If you don’t go, I’ll have security escort you out.

“That would be quite embarrassing for you, Ms. Pine.”

Apple’s smile slowly fell as she stared at Dylan.

Dylan met her gaze with a cold glare.

The disdain in his eyes was unmistakable.

Apple’s pride was wounded by his obvious disgust.

She was, after all, the heiress of the