Chapter 106

She cleared her throat, trying to get their attention. When Manila finally noticed Alice's presence and didn't move away from Lucas, Alice's palms turned into tight fists. Now she understood the gossip circulating inside the company. Lucas was surprised to see her there, his expression softening into a smile as he stood up to greet her. "Babe, what a pleasant surprise," Lucas said, his eyes brightening with affection. "I didn't expect you here." Of course, he wasn't expecting her. Alice felt angry at him too. If he had created distance, Manila wouldn't have dared to get close to him. It was all his fault. But she couldn't let Manila win, so she put a smile on her face, cursing herself in her mind for forcing Lucas to hire Manila. "I missed you," she said, stepping closer to him. "I wanted to see you," Alice replied, trying to keep her voice steady, but the hurt and disappointment were evident in her eyes. Lucas's smile widened, and he reached out to take her hand. "I'm glad you're here