“Lilah, we messed up," Devonte mumbled, offering a weak smile. "We just... wanted the best for you. We can offer you our most prized healing remedy. He'll be good as new."

Only then did a flicker of warmth return to Lilah's eyes. "Fine. Do it."

Cyrus produced a vial filled with strange, dark pills, their fragrance filling the room.

Lilah took one, gently placing it on Gerard's tongue.

The doctor had confirmed a relapse in Gerard's internal wound, demanding complete rest.

He lay pale and listless, his lips a colorless line.

Lilah's heart ached with guilt and regret.

"I'm so sorry," she mumbled, taking his hand. "I should have warned them. I didn't think this would happen."

Gerard offered a weak smile. "It's not your fault, or theirs. It's on me. Don't be mad at them, okay?"

Lilah nodded silently.

She understood their intentions, but Gerard was the one suffering.

Suddenly, a mischievous glint appeared in Cyrus’ eye. “Turns out, this fellow's not so bad after all. A good match for our Lilah, wouldn't you say, Kyler?"

Kyler rubbed his hands together, glancing nervously at Lilah. "I suppose so. Handsome, strong... If I had suffered the same, I probably would've fainted long ago."

Devonte cleared his throat. "Lilah, we have no objections anymore. Consider this a wedding gift for your future husband."

He gestured toward the remaining vial of pills.

Gerard accepted it graciously. "Thank you."

"We apologize, Lilah," Devonte said, approaching her with a hopeful smile. "Forgive us, for we acted with the best intentions."

Lilah couldn't stay truly angry with them.

"Alright," she sighed, crossing her arms. "But let's talk about your attempted escape. You've managed to come here with some tricks. Now, leaving without a word? Unacceptable!"

The memory reignited her anger.

These old men, just like the ones at home, were both family and a source of constant frustration.

The three men, predictably, retreated back into feigned silence.

Lilah felt a rising tide of exasperation, teetering on the edge of an outburst. But Gerard's voice, soft and firm, stopped her.

"Let me handle this, Lilah. Why don't you wait outside?"