Unaware of Lilah's inner turmoil, Phoebe leaned forward, her curiosity piqued. “What's your take? Do they make a power couple?"

“They... they do seem like a fitting pair," Lilah responded, her voice muted, betraying the tumult in her heart.

So, it was real. Ruby and Gerard were an item, and marriage seemed a logical next step. Perhaps, for the child's sake, Gerard would indeed welcome Ruby into his life.

A pang of sorrow struck Lilah, prompting her to take a hasty mouthful of her noodles.

After her meal, she plunged back into work.

She toiled away, the night stretching on, and only made it back late at night.

Before entering her apartment, she cast an involuntary glance at Gerard's door. It felt all too closed, silent, and impenetrable.

Her eyes dropped to her doorstep, where they caught sight of an envelope. Picking it up, Lilah discovered it was a note from Jerrold.

“Lilah, are you feeling down, or is work just keeping you super busy?

Please, look after yourself! I earned a gold star in kindergarten today and I wanted you to have it!"

Enclosed was a tiny brooch, shaped like a gold star.

A sad smile tugged at Lilah's lips, her eyes brimming with unshed tears.

With Ruby poised to reclaim her role as Jerrold's mother, this note would likely be the last from him. Lilah resolved to treasure it.

She left early the next day, managing to avoid any encounter with them.

Days passed without a single encounter, despite their proximity.

Lilah devoted herself to crafting new designs, under constant pressure from Joseph to hasten the process.

Nevaeh, post-suspension, was back and noticeably subdued. She offered Lilah a courteous greeting, which Lilah received with scant interest, her mind occupied by her tasks.

A week later, with her designs completed and handed over for further discussion, Lilah, spent and weary, stretched her tired limbs and exited her office.

In her wake, a shadowy figure stealthily slipped into the space she'd just vacated.

A sense of amazement flashed in the intruder's eyes as they scanned the design sketches on Lilah's computer. Yet, it was quickly clouded by a surge of anger and jealousy.

There was no denying that the woman had talent, but as the intruder stood there, a smug smirk crossed their lips. They were certain that her days at the company were numbered.

As the designers wrapped up their new creations, Joseph convened a meeting to appraise the designs.

The expansive rectangular table in the conference room was adorned with a plethora of striking designs, and the designers sequentially showcased their contributions.

Joseph maintained a composed demeanor and internally conceded that Lilah's flair was undeniable. In just a month and a half, she had significantly elevated the designers’ prowess.