Indeed, the double standards are glaring. She could be cast aside, but Virginia was untouchable. After voicing this, Addison immediately regretted it. What was she compared to Virginia, anyway? Virginia was the cherished one in Lance's heart; her own existence seemed just a shadow in comparison. Perhaps she was misunderstanding the whole situation. When Lance heard her words, he seemed eager to clarify, but Addison did not allow him the opportunity. "Let's not dwell on this matter." She swiftly changed the subject. "My condition is simple: bring me a signed divorce agreement in exchange for Mr. Steven's life." Addison was direct, cutting straight to the heart of the matter."Make sure it's signed." She stressed the word "signed." Last time, Lance had not signed the documents; instead, he had tricked her. Lance was taken aback by her demand. Did she genuinely desire the divorce this much? Unexpectedly, a sense of loss swept through him, its origin unclear. This unfamiliar emotion cast a shadow over him, pressing down with an intensity that distorted his usually composed features into a frown of displeasure. Lance's expression turned grave, but he strived to maintain his composure, not wanting Addison to perceive the hint of loss that flickered across his face. He composed himself quickly, masking his emotions and adopting an air of indifference to the condition Addison had set. "Well, do you need more time to think about it?" Addison asked, her tone cool as she sat poised in her chair, tilting her head slightly in a gesture that underscored her confidence. She believed that Lance would ultimately agree.While it felt somewhat harsh to use Steven's life as leverage, Addison considered it necessary under the circumstances. Given Lance's personality, nothing else seemed substantial enough to influence him—only the well-being of his family carried enough weight. So, she could only do this. As Addison spoke, her delicate eyebrows knit together slightly, and her clear, beautiful eyes blinked, adding a playful note to her otherwise serious demeanor. This playful expression was new to Lance; he had never seen it directed at him before, and it unnerved yet intrigued him. He felt a tug at his heartstrings. He could not bring himself to say yes. He did not want to agree to Addison's terms—internally, he resisted the idea. Yet, the reality of his grandfather's precarious health loomed large. Life, he knew, was more precious than any personal conflict or pride. "Okay, I agree." Lance finally conceded, his voice steady, his face set into an expression of calm indifference as if he was merely agreeing to a trivial business deal. However, beneath that calm exterior, a storm raged within him. He was tumultuously unsettled, though none of it showed on his composed facade. As Lance agreed, almost as if on cue, Addison's tea also reached its end. Everything seemed to fall into place quietly. "I didn't expect you to agree so quickly; then it's settled." Addison placed her teacup down with a hint of cheerfulness in her voice. "I hope you can prepare the divorce agreement for signing ahead of time. "If you don't have time to prepare, I can prepare another one for you; I don't mind." As long as Lance was willing to sign, that was all that mattered. Lance managed a nod, mustering a smile. "Sure. "I'll ensure the divorce agreement is ready on time. Don't worry." He maintained his composure with effort. "Okay, I feel reassured hearing that." Addison nodded with satisfaction. "Then I'll be leaving first." She picked up her bag, stood up, and walked out the door without lingering, her departure starkly contrasting the mood on Lance's side. As soon as she left, Lance's composed demeanor faltered, and a shadow crossed his face. Partway out, Addison paused as if remembering something. She turned back. "Oh, by the way, I've already paid the bill." Caught off-guard, Lance quickly adjusted back to an indifferent expression. Addison caught a brief glimpse of emotion on his face but did not see it clearly. It did not matter, as long as the divorce agreement was signed. "If you're still hungry, just order more. Put it on my tab," she offered sincerely, before continuing on her way out. After her parting words, Addison opened the door and left. Lance sat back, mulling over what she had just said, his expression growing increasingly somber.Put it on her tab? What was Addison implying with that comment?