Lilah merely arched an eyebrow, clearly unimpressed by Adaline's attempted subterfuge.

In Lilah's eyes, Adaline was merely overthinking things. She and Gerard were not in the same league, and even if Adaline tried to damage her reputation in front of him, he wouldn't care.

"Miss Phillips, it seems your sister revels in tarnishing your reputation," Gerard remarked, his voice chilly, his distaste for deceit palpable.

The sheer unexpectedness of having someone stand up for her left Lilah momentarily speechless.

Seeking to regain some semblance of control, Adaline tried a different tack. "Mr. Harris, I merely wanted to ensure you weren't being misled. It's well known that my sister's past actions were, to put it kindly, indiscreet."

Gerard's eyes, deep and inscrutable, shifted to Lilah as he replied with a hint of amusement, "It's interesting you mention indiscretions.

I too have a child out of wedlock. Seems Miss Phillips and I share similar experiences."

Adaline's facade crumbled, her surprise evident. Any remaining composure evaporated, leaving her floundering.

Seeing no point in prolonging the uncomfortable situation, she made a hasty exit.

Lilah, a twinkle in her eye, remarked, "Mr. Harris, I never anticipated that you possessed such a sharp wit."

He responded with a subtle smirk, clearly enjoying the evening's turn of events. Lifting his cup, he seemed lost in thought, captivated by the bright smile on Lilah's face.

After a brief pause, he added, “Your sister is full of schemes."

“Sure, not many guys notice that. I didn't think you had such a keen eye for deceptive women," said Lilah.

Gerard responded, “Guys can be quite perceptive, you know."

Lilah got the message. Some men really did enjoy it when women tried to use tricks to win them over.

After her chat with Gerard, Lilah decided to freshen up. As she washed her face and looked up, an unexpected face stared back at her in the mirror.

"Lilah." Iker, with fury evident in his eyes, reached out to grab her. But she sidestepped, giving him a disdainful look. “Hands off.

Adaline's still out there. Aren't you worried about her feelings?"

Iker paused, taken aback. Trying to sound tough, he said, “How do you even know Mr. Harris?"

“Why should you care? It's none of your business."

Lilah's icy response made Iker even more uneasy. “Don't think you can attract my attention in this way. You've changed, Lilah, and not for the better."

Confused, Lilah asked, "What's gotten into you?"

Keeping her composure, she added, "Being self-obsessed isn't healthy.

One of my relatives works in a psychiatric hospital. I can get you some help."