Brenda's heart softened. She knew Livia wanted to prove herself in the Harris family, so she agreed, saying, “Alright, have someone bring you some clothes to change into."

Livia finally smiled.

Even though Brenda asked Livia to look after her, Lilah and Gerard didn't want to leave her alone.

To make sure nothing like this happened again, Lilah and Gerard talked it over and decided to take turns staying with Brenda at the hospital until she was ready to go home.

That evening, Livia went out to the lakeside of the hospital by herself. When she was sure no one was around, she called someone.

"I've stopped them from getting the marriage license. Now it's your turn," Livia said quietly. Her voice was icy and unsettling.

A harsh voice came from the other end of the line. "Don't worry. I won't let her have an easy life."

"They almost went through with the marriage. If she does, she'll be part of the Harris family for good. I'd like to see how you handle her then," Livia replied, sounding frustrated.

“My grandmother's birthday is this Saturday. She'll definitely be there. That's when I'll make my move."

With that, the person on the other end hung up.

After a long pause, Livia smiled to herself.

She wasn't trying to hurt anyone specifically. But to secure her place in the Harris family, she had to use others to her advantage.

Besides, Lilah wasn't exactly innocent. If it weren't for her, Livia's family would have come back together a long time ago instead of being separated and unable to reunite.

The following day, Lilah got to the hospital early to take over for Gerard. Effie showed up around the same time, looking exhausted, with heavy bags under her eyes.

“Mom, was it Livia who hurt you? I always get a bad feeling about her. We need to watch out," Effie said. She had been in a gloomy mood lately, always expecting the worst whenever something happened.

Brenda sighed and gave Effie a look that told her to keep quiet, knowing Livia would be there any moment.

Effie shot a bitter look outside and whispered to Lilah, "“Lilah, I saw Livia sneaking off to the lake behind the hospital last night. I don't know what she was up to, but it's hard not to be suspicious."

"Don't worry. As long as I'm around, Brenda will be safe," Lilah said, giving Effie a reassuring smile.

Effie thought about Lilah's words for a bit and then stayed silent, but her face showed she was still upset.

“By the way, Danna's birthday is coming up in two days. Should I go? My dad called me about it," Lilah said with a sigh, clearly unsure of what to do.

If she went, it would only upset her. But if she stayed away, Danna might spread lies about her, which would be even worse.

Effie scoffed and said, "Why bother going? That old lady doesn't treat you well and always takes Karol's side. If you show up, you'll just end up in a mess, won't you?"

Lilah agreed with Effie, so she decided to send a gift instead of attending the party.

However, in the following two days, Absolon kept calling her and Gerard, asking them to come.