Yet, Maggie's frown deepened. The mirror didn't lie, and her reflection spelled out a truth no flattery could mask.

Lilah had been the first to try on the dress, resembling a celestial being descended from a realm of fantasy.

However, when Maggie donned it, the result was far from magical.

Fuming, Maggie's body tensed, her stomach protruding as her hands balled into fists. Abruptly, a "snap" resonated through the store.

The dress's waistline had succumbed to the strain, exposing her skin beneath.

A collective gasp echoed around the room.

Humiliated and seething, Maggie's face was a canvas of rage.

Observing this, Lilah couldn't help but release a subtle chuckle before making her exit.

That gentle, scornful laughter had effectively trampled on what was left of Maggie's pride.

The dress she'd so arrogantly claimed was a complete disaster on her.

With her cheeks aflame, Maggie retreated to the fitting room to remove the now-ruined dress. However, her mishap came at a price. She was obliged to purchase the damaged item. The tag read 600, 000 dollars, a figure that nearly sent her reeling.

In the meantime, Lilah visited other shops, selecting appropriate attire for herself and also picking up items for Gerard and Jerrold.

The sight of charming children's clothing melted her heart, compelling her to choose a few for Jerrold.

Clad in these stylish ensembles, Jerrold was a picture of cuteness.

As he tried on various outfits, Lilah's smile broadened. “You're just too cute! Sweetheart, which one do you Like best?" she asked, her smile radiant.

Shyly, Jerrold scampered over to a red ensemble, declaring, "This one!"

Lilah was initially perplexed, but understanding dawned when she realized her outfit was similarly colored. She laughed softly. "Did you choose it because I'm wearing red?"

Jerrold's earnest nod was all the confirmation she needed. Unable to resist, she enveloped him in a warm embrace, peppering his face with affectionate kisses. "I wish I could just whisk you away with me!"

At this, Jerrold's wide, innocent eyes sparkled, a keen anticipation evident in his gaze. Unbeknownst to Lilah, Gerard had entered just in time to catch this exchange. Still oblivious to his presence, she mused aloud, "I wonder when the best time would be to sneak you away.

Perhaps when your dad is out?"

“Why not consider taking me along in your heist?" came Gerard's deep, inviting timbre. Startled, Lilah spun around to find the tall, striking figure of Gerard at the doorway. Her cheeks flamed with a mix of shock and embarrassment. “Wh-when did you get back?" she stuttered.

Amused by her flustered demeanor, Gerard's lips curved into a subtle grin. “I just arrived, Miss Phillips. What are your thoughts on my proposal?"

He was inquiring about her abducting him.

Attempting to regain her composure, Lilah cleared her throat.