Bexley, hearing that, blew up. "Dad, there's no way I'm going back!"

Going back meant being miles apart from Gerard. She might not even ever see him again!

Jason erupted at this. "You're coming back with me. What are you playing at? Are you trying to make me look bad?"

Unable to sway her father, Bexley tugged her mom's sleeve. “Mom, don't make me go. I have something else to do!"

Kassidy pondered. "Bexley, you go back with us first. When you recover, I will allow you to come back."

"Seriously, Mom?"

Bexley did not want to be far from Gerard.

Her mother nodded.

Bexley finally agreed to leave.

Jason said to Richard, "Richard, in that case, we'll be off now."

Richard said, "Give me a shout if you need anything."

“Okay.”

After they left, Brenda grinned at Lilah. “You handled that smooth. I knew you could do it."

Lilah grinned back. “Do you trust me?"

Brenda's eyes twinkled as she replied, "I sure do."

Brenda glanced at Lilah, finding increasing contentment in her presence.

Only Lilah's poised demeanor and clever mind could support her son in securing the Harris family legacy.

“Lilah, take a seat. Let's get someone to cook!" Brenda suggested cheerfully.

“No, thanks," Lilah said, her smile unwavering.

It was still early, and she and Gerard planned to enjoy a meal together.

"Got anything on your plate, Lilah?" Brenda asked.

Lilah simply smiled. "Not really."

Brenda persisted. “Since you're free, why not stay and eat with us?"

Hesitation flickered in Lilah's eyes under Brenda's insistence.