Dobbs donned white gloves, accepted the box from Lilah, and inspected the ring closely with a magnifying glass.

The shift in his expression made everyone reconsider their thoughts.

Initially stern, Dobbs rotated the ring several times, scrutinizing every detail. His face transformed with astonishment upon spotting a tiny mark inside the band.

“Miss Phillips, might I inquire if you acquired this ring at an antique auction last year?" Dobbs' query left both Danna and Karol astonished.

Lilah was surprised. "How do you know?"

Regret etched across his countenance, Dobbs confessed, "Honestly, I was also present during the auction and took part in the bidding. However, such treasures typically fall into the hands of the highest bidder. With insufficient funds, all I could do was lament inwardly."

Dobbs handed the box to Lilah, yet his sharp gaze remained fixed on the exquisite ring, seemingly unwilling to let it go for quite some time.

Danna's visage underwent a drastic transformation. She grasped her garments' edge, attempting to contain the shock within.

Karol mirrored Danna's astonishment. Disbelief washed over her as Lilah's acquisition sank in.

She surmised that this woman must have acquired the treasure through unethical methods. Given Lilah's nature, it seemed entirely plausible!

Their expressions bordered on the comical, though Lilah avoided their gaze. Noting Dobbs' admiration for the ring, she remarked, "Take your time to appreciate it, and then return it to me."

She couldn't simply part with the ring, valued at several million, without a second thought.

Even so, Dobbs was still so excited.

Taking it hastily, fearing Lilah might retract her offer, he said, "Thank you, Miss Phillips. I'll ensure its safekeeping and return it to you in three days.”

He hurriedly departed without a farewell.

ALL the people remained silent.

"Mom, Lilah has prepared a gift for you. Shouldn't you reciprocate?"

Absolon suddenly said, breaking the silence.

His expression darkened; he was clearly siding with Lilah.

“Dad, but she didn't give anything to Grandma," Karol expressed with dissatisfaction.

"She did, but you failed to appreciate it!" Absolon retorted, his tone icy with anger.

Danna was at a loss for words. Having prepared no gift herself, she was unsure how to respond.

She contemplated making an excuse, promising Lilah a gift next time, but Absolon just stared at her.

Reluctantly, she removed a jade bracelet from her wrist and uttered, "Accept it."