Milly, intrigued despite herself, said, “Alright, let's hear it."

Tess outlined her plot, needing Milly's involvement to set it in motion.

“Once you're in, I can handle the rest."

Milly chuckled dryly. “Are you sure this will work?"

“Absolutely. It's more than just banishing Effie from the industry. Lilah needs to pay a heavy price as well."

“Lilah, huh?" Milly probed.

"Yeah, she's the reason my son got hurt. She's not getting away with it." Tess seethed with anger at the mention of Lilah.

A sly smile crept across Milly's face. "Fine, Tess. But this is it. No more games."

With a grateful "Thank you," Tess ended the call.

The following day, sunlight streamed through the window, bathing the room in a warm glow.

Lilah stretched, reaching for Gerard beside her only to find an empty space.

She walked out of the bedroom and glanced around, spotting a note on the kitchen table. She picked it up and read Gerard's message: “Lilah, had to step out on an errand. Breakfast is in the kitchen. Don't skip it."

Lilah smiled, crumpled the note, and retrieved her breakfast. Just then, her phone buzzed. It was Effie.

“Hey Lilah, we're wrapping up the shoot. Saul's treating us tonight, and he mentioned his friend's new show next month. He wants to recommend me!" Effie's voice brimmed with excitement.

Lilah, sipping her porridge, replied, “Sounds amazing, Effie! Thank Saul for the offer."

Effie giggled. "Did that! Guess what? He asked if you'd be interested in acting! Even getting you in the industry!"

Lilah laughed lightly. “Tell him acting's not quite my scene."

"Got it. Oh, there's this concert tonight. Do you want to come? Don't want to go alone.”

“A concert?" Lilah's interest was piqued.

“Yeah, it'll be a blast together. Let's do it!"

“Alright.”

Later that night, after work, Effie and Lilah headed to the concert.

As they waited in line, a nearby woman noticed Effie. "Isn't that the famous actress? Decided music's your new thing?"

Effie stiffened and turned to the woman, her eyes flashing with anger.