Chapter 342

Lillian had reserved an open-air barbecue spot on the edge of Elepdon, quiet and tucked away from the bustle of the city.

By the time she and Eleanor arrived, most of Lillian's friends were already there.

A cluster of stylishly dressed girls stood together,chatting with excitement. The moment they spotted Lillian and Eleanor, they hurried over in delight.

"Lillian, finally! You're here!"

One of the girls suddenly froze, her gaze locked on Eleanor. Her eyes widened as though she had uncovered a treasure. With a squeal, she cried, "Oh my gosh, it's Enigma! Enigma is here!"

Her shout made everyone turn at once.

The other girls swarmed closer, studying Eleanor's face before bursting into thrilled screams.

"Wow, it really is Enigma!"

"Alive and dazzling in person! Lillian, how did you even manage this?"

"Enigma, please sign something for me! My birthday's coming up-design me a dress! I'lI pay whatever you ask!"

"And me too!"

In a heartbeat, Eleanor was surrounded, dozens of eager eyes fixed on her like she was a star who had fallen into their midst.

Lillian quickly stepped forward, throwing her arms out in front of Eleanor protectively.

"Alright, alright, calm down," she said firmly, her expression serious. "This is a party, not a fan meet."

The girls, knowing Lillian well, pulled back with good humor and let things settle down.

Soon,the barbecue began.

Eleanor picked up a few skewers and placed them neatly on the grill.

She lowered her gaze, her movements steady and practiced as she flipped the skewers and sprinkled seasoning with graceful ease.

Not far away, a group of young men watched with wide eyes. Was this really the mysterious designer Enigma?

The media always painted her as cold and unreachable.

But here she was, standing by the firelight, a quiet beauty with an easy, languid charm that stirred something in their chests.

They were captivated.

But everyone knew she belonged to Nolan.Admiration was one thing, but stepping beyond that was dangerous.

Lillian noticed their stares and strolled over with a glass of juice in hand.

She nudged one of the guys with her elbow. "What are you looking at so seriously?"

The man nearly jumped, snapping his head back toward the grill. "Uh... Nothing. Just making sure the skewers don't burn."

"Yeah, the fire's too strong," another chimed in quickly.

Lillian chuckled, lowering her voice. "Don't think I don't see what's going through your heads. Here'sa tip for free-Eleanor just broke up with Nolan. If you like her, you might have a chance."Their eyes widened in shock.

But when they thought of Nolan-cold, untouchable Nolan-their courage withered instantly. Even if he was out of the picture, they didn't dare purse his ex.

While the others hesitated, the youngest among them suddenly stood.

He was dressed head to toe in designer brands, his ash -blond hair catching the light. His features were sharp yet boyish,carrying a confident, playful air.

With nerves hidden under bravado, he walked up to Eleanor,his ears faintly red. "Eleanor, can l... Can I add you on Facebook? I'm studying fashion design.You're my idol."

Eleanor glanced at him, and noticed that he was much younger than her.

Not giving it too much thought, she nodded lightly."Alright."

Maverick Cohen, the man, felt his pulse hammer in his ears.

He had added Enigma. His idol. And she was single now.

Excited beyond words, he made a silent vow. He would persuade his father to bring their family's business back home, just to have a real chance at winning her heart.

Lillian sidled up to Eleanor with a mischievous grin,nudging her shoulder. "See? You're a magnet."

In reality, what her words meant was, "Don't waste time mourning a jerk-there are plenty of men who'd kill for a chance with you."

Eleanor gave her a resigned look. "He's younger than me."

Lillian arched her brows slyly. "You know, younger men come with their own advantages. Especially in bed,like-"

Before she could finish, Eleanor shoved a freshly grilled chicken wing into her mouth.

Lillian's words died on her tongue as she melted into bliss, chewing happily and forgetting everything else.

As the night wore on, the gathering drew to a close.

Maverick suddenly jumped up. "Let's take a group photo!"

Everyone agreed at once.

He wasted no time slipping in beside Eleanor, subtly claiming the spot next to her. After the shot, he turned to her, eyes shining.

"Can I post this on Facebook? A lot of my classmates are crazy about you."

Eleanor saw no harm and gave a small nod."Go ahead."

At her word, the whole group lit up, phones in hand as they eagerly prepared to share the moment with the world.