“I couldn't imagine missing it for the world!"

The gathering burst in cheers again, but Karol's heart felt cold.

Had her entire attempt just served to ensure Lilah got married to Gerard?

Absolon, brimming with happiness, led Lilah around the room, introducing her to relatives and business associates.

Karol used to fill this role. Now, she felt like an old doll, tossed aside now that Absolon no longer had use for her.

"Don't be downhearted," Kaden said, offering words of comfort.

"You're not losing anything. Lilah might be back, but she won't easily replace you. With Grandma's support, you're still a valued member of the Morris family."

“Thanks, " Karol murmured, her emotions swirling. "I feel a bit overwhelmed. I need some air."

"Okay."

Kaden nodded understandingly and stayed back, signaling to the two women nearby; they got the hint and quickly followed Karol outside.

As they caught up, one of them said to her, "Karol, just like Kaden said, Lilah isn't going to change your place here!"

"Yes, whose daughter could she possibly be? I heard Absolon only ever had one lover, right?"

"I heard that woman was quite fickle. After her affair was discovered, she ran off with another man and never returned. It's uncertain whether she's even still alive!"

“Absolon has remained unmarried all these years out of sheer anger. Therefore, even if Lilah turns up, your dad is bound to shun her because of her mother."

Would Absolon really shun Lilah? Upon hearing this, Karol's spirits lifted.

She recalled the scandal involving Joselyn. Even her grandmother had harbored resentment toward her, and Absolon had been quite furious as well.

Such a flighty woman, fortunate enough to bear Absolon's child. Could Lilah truly surpass her?

Karol believed only she could uphold the Morris family's honor.

With a smug expression, Karol remarked, “Don't worry. She's not worth my anger. Let's head back after some fresh air."

In the banquet hall, Gerard approached Lilah and slipped his arms around her waist, drawing her close.

“Have you handled them?"

Lowering his voice, Gerard whispered into Lilah's ear, his words unnoticed by the gathering except for their intimate proximity.

“Miss Phillips and Mr. Harris look so devoted. Mr. Morris, you are fortunate to have such a son-in-law."

"Yes, when is the wedding scheduled? I can hardly picture how lavish it will be with the Morris and Harris families involved."