A suffocating darkness descended upon Maggie, and she succumbed to unconsciousness once more.

When she regained her senses, she was in the familiar surroundings of the Lewis family home, with Regina, her mother, at her bedside, tears streaming down her face.

"Mom," Maggie managed in a raspy whisper, struggling to speak. "The photos...

Understanding immediately, Regina grasped her hand tightly.

“Sweetheart, don't fret. I'm here. We'll get through this together."

“Lilah orchestrated this. She's scheming against me!" Maggie declared, her eyes ablaze with intense loathing. She had never felt such profound detestation for anyone before.

Regina harbored a similar animosity, her gaze dark and icy. "Rest assured. I will seek retribution on your behalf. Focus on your recovery and leave the online chaos to us."

Comforted slightly, Maggie exhaled, resolving to rest a bit before attempting to eat.

The household was steeped in a somber mood. Servants stole furtive, curious glances at Maggie, hastily looking away whenever she caught them.

After a silent breakfast, Maggie felt a semblance of composure returning. Regina counseled her, "I've devised a strategy concerning Lilah. Stay indoors for the coming days and avoid your phone."

"Understood," Maggie responded, a flicker of life returning to her previously listless eyes. She gazed at her mother with newfound excitement. "Mom, you're incredible! What's the plan?"

“Lilah cheated on your brother, resulting in an illegitimate child, remember? We'll leverage this to divert attention from your predicament while revealing her involvement with Gerard."

Maggie thought it was a good idea. If they painted Lilah as unfaithful and unsuitable for Gerard, public scrutiny would shift from her. The strategy seemed flawless! Maggie was elated, anticipating the moment Lilah would face public scorn.

However, an unexpected voice echoed from the entrance.

“Mr. Harris, welcome! We would've prepared a suitable meal had we known of your visit," Alden greeted with unmistakable deference.

“I'm not here for a meal," responded a cool, authoritative male voice.

Maggie's heart skipped a beat. Had Gerard arrived?

Regina's expression tightened, and she motioned for Maggie to stay silent. Proceeding to welcome their visitor, she offered, “Mr. Harris, what brings you here? Might you be interested in some refreshment?"

Gerard, disregarding her entirely, strode directly to a sofa. His commanding aura filled the room, and a hushed tension fell over everyone present. No one dared even to draw a breath audibly.

Alden offered him a cup of coffee. "Mr. Harris, what crucial matter brings you to our home?"

Gerard spoke, his tone icy and foreboding. “Your daughter displayed remarkable boldness last night."

Those words sent a palpable shock through the trio.

So, Gerard had come for this!

Alden dabbed at his forehead where cold sweat had gathered. “Mr. Harris, my daughter indeed caused a scene at the banquet, but it was not her intention. She was ensnared in someone else's scheme!"