Gabriel walks up to Meridia, who is standing beside the car.
"Put your hand in mine," Gabriel says softly, guiding her, "and say, 'Hello, how are you? It's nice to meet you.'"
Meridia does exactly as he instructs, her fingers sliding naturally into his.
"Very good," Gabriel smiles. "Now, if anyone asks who we are to each other?"
Meridia takes his hand again, looks up at him with confidence, and replies, "We're committed."
"Amazing," Gabriel says.
They get into the car and soon arrive at the event. Stepping out together, they enter hand in hand, looking effortless and united. After a while, they separate briefly to speak with different people.
Gabriel stands alone for a moment when suddenly, his ex appears.
" You blocked me everywhere," Briar says, her voice tight. "I knew I'd find you here today."
"Leave," Gabriel replies coldly. "Don't waste my time."
Briar ignores his tone and reaches for his hand. "Come on. Take my hand. Let's represent your company together—beautifully, like we used to."
At that moment, Meridia returns.
Briar turns sharply. "And who is this?"
Meridia slips her hand into Gabriel's and kisses his cheek without hesitation. "We're committed," she says calmly. "We've been dating for quite some time—and we'll be getting married soon."
Briar lifts the drink in her hand and takes a slow sip, as if swallowing her anger along with it. Then she looks at them both, forces a smile, and says nothing.