Adaline understood what Lilah meant, but she paid no mind to it as she was preoccupied with thoughts of Gerard. “Lilah, what do you mean?

I've always adored jewelry," she said, her eyes flicking toward the door.

It wasn't lost on Lilah what her family was orchestrating. They aimed not merely to meet Gerard but likely hoped Adaline could ensnare him.

Yet, their schemes were destined for futility.

Disappointment gnawed at Lilah. Her sister, once tender and unspoiled, had sunk to new depths.

"Where's Grandpa's letter?" Lilah demanded, cutting to the chase.

“After dinner," Matthew countered swiftly. "When is Mr. Harris expected?"

"I've extended the invitation, but his presence isn't guaranteed."

Matthew's face soured. “If Mr. Harris cares for you, a sincere invitation should be all it takes. Try again!"

A chill overtook Lilah's demeanor. "If your aim today was to ensure Gerard's attendance, I'm afraid you'll be disappointed."

She pivoted to depart when Matthew, flustered, called out, “Lilah, why the rush? It's just a family gathering. Having Mr. Harris, your boyfriend, would make it merrier, right?"

Lilah scoffed inwardly. Matthew's cordial tone barely masked his eagerness to have Gerard in attendance. She felt thoroughly repelled by their antics.

As Matthew scrambled for a way to persuade Lilah, his attention snapped toward a surprising sight.

"Mr. Harris’

A sleek black Rolls-Royce halted before the house, and a distinguished figure alighted.

Though Matthew had never met Gerard, the man's commanding presence was unmistakable. Tension gripped Helga and Adaline.

“Mr. Harris! Please, come in. We've been eagerly awaiting your arrival," Matthew exclaimed, his expression adopting an obsequious grin.

Gerard's indifferent "Hmm" betrayed nothing. He maintained a detached, cool aura, his frosty demeanor thawing only when his eyes met Lilah's.

But she didn't seem thrilled. She had never wished for Gerard's presence, knowing this family was always scheming.

As Gerard brushed past her, he murmured, “Don't worry, I've got this."

The depth and conviction in his voice lifted the weight clenching Lilah's heart, coaxing a smile onto her face.

Helga and Adaline hastened to welcome the esteemed guest. With a beaming smile, Helga remarked, "Mr. Harris, your exceptional talents precede you. It's a pleasure to finally meet you! And this is Lilah's sister, Adaline. People often say she and Lilah are strikingly similar."

Adaline's cheeks flushed; she dipped her head in a feigned display of shyness. “We've crossed paths at a banquet previously, Mr. Harris.

Welcome," she murmured demurely.