Now, it seemed he had no choice but to make a decision.

"What should we do next? How did this happen? She'll be alright, won't she?"

Xavier fretted as he glanced at Lilah in the hospital bed.

The others shared his concern and were all clustered around her with anxious expressions.

The doctor said she needed an acupuncture specialist for treatment, but they didn't have anyone with that skill.

After a pause, Gerard stood up with determination. "I know a person who can help her," he declared, igniting a spark of hope among them.

"I have to head back home," Gerard insisted, gripping Lilah's hand with a concerned expression, reluctant to leave her. "Please, take good care of her while I'm away these next few days. Make sure no one exploits her vulnerability."

It appeared to be the only choice.

"You can rely on us," Cyrus stated firmly. "We'll do whatever it takes to protect her. Go ahead, we'll handle it."

“Exactly! Devonte exclaimed as he stood up. "You're going to bring Miranda here, right? Hurry up, and we'll keep things under control here."

Gerard departed that very night, leaving Jerrold in Xavier's capable hands. Xavier took no chances, watching over the child and Lilah diligently in her quarters, day and night.

The doctor's medicine only offered temporary relief from her worst symptoms. Her breathing remained irregular, and her complexion showed obvious signs of distress.

“It's despicable, whoever did this. If I ever find out who harmed Lilah, they'll regret it," Kyler declared, visibly disturbed.

Xavier felt uneasy, tentatively suggesting, “Could it have been Bartley? He seems the most suspicious."

“But Lilah hasn't been around him lately, and he didn't have the opportunity," Devonte argued, his brow creased with concern.

"Whoever did it was sly. It might've been a stranger she encountered, or perhaps something was wrong with the food she ate. Sadly, it's too simple to poison someone nowadays," Kyler observed somberly.

“Let's stay focused. Our main concern is protecting her from anyone who means harm," Cyrus added firmly.

Barth overheard their entire conversation from just outside. He dropped the gift he was holding, startling everyone inside.

Xavier was the first to confront him. His tone was laced with anger.

“What are you doing here? Just go away!"

"I came to check on Lilah," Barth explained, his voice carrying a hint of guilt.

"Don't even think about entering. If anything happens to Lilah while you're around, we'll blame you," Devonte threatened as he blocked the door, guarding against the student he had once been proud of.

Barth turned pale.

“Do you truly think so poorly of me?" he questioned, a bitter smile on his lips as tears welled in his eyes.