Respect was important.

Before they arrived, Lilah had explained that Danna valued good manners. Jerrold knew he couldn't misbehave. So, he approached Danna politely.

"Hello," he greeted, standing tall with a charming smile. "I wish you happiness every day, and that you always stay as beautiful and kind as you are now!"

Danna burst out laughing, waving him closer. “Come here, Jerrold, give me a hug!"

He readily complied, launching himself into her arms. A faint, unfamiliar scent tickled his nose, making him slightly uncomfortable.

"You may be an ordinary woman, but your kid is a charming Little fellow," Danna remarked indifferently, glancing at Lilah. She then directed the butler to prepare a gift for Jerrold.

Lilah was rendered speechless. It seemed that Danna was still dissatisfied with her.

"Grandma really likes Jerrold," Karol chimed in with an innocent smile. "Can he stay here? I want to play with him too!"

Lilah remained silent.

Dinner commenced shortly.

Jerrold sat between Absolon and Lilah, quietly eating his food and occasionally peering up to listen to the adults’ conversation. He was a picture of perfect manners and innocence.

Despite his good behavior, Lilah couldn't wait to finish the meal and take him home.

After all, the Morris family's coldness was hard to get used to.

Just then, Karol piped up, “Jerrold, try this fish! I removed all the bones for you."

The tranquility shattered with Karol's abrupt comment.

Lilah, momentarily stunned, shot her a wary glance. "He doesn't Like fish," she explained calmly.

"Are you worried I'd give Jerrold something unsafe?" Karol bristled, a hint of grievance in her voice. "I apologized for the previous incidents. Besides, I hold no grudge against a child. Jerrold wouldn't be a target."

Better safe than sorry. Lilah thought to herself.

“You're overthinking it," she countered flatly. “He simply dislikes fish."

She gently ruffled her son's hair.

“Indeed, Aunt Karol," he piped up. "Fish isn't my favorite."

Jerrold, with unwavering trust in his mother, readily agreed, even if it meant a little fib.

"ALL right, Karol. Just serve him something he enjoys," Absolon interjected at the opportune moment, placing a shrimp on Jerrold's plate.

“Jerrold, here, try this," Absolon offered with a warm smile.