“Three.”

Kaden started the countdown.

"Two."

Time seemed to come to a standstill, and the tension in the air was palpable.

"One."

At the last possible moment, Lilah kept her gaze locked on Kaden's hand. Only when he shoved Miranda toward her did she let go of Karol's neck and pushed Karol away roughly.

Then, she grabbed Miranda and bolted.

“Catch them!" Kaden barked.

The men in black immediately surged toward the two women, their intent to kill clear.

Miranda was injured and barely able to stand. Lilah shoved her into a corner and handed her a knife for protection.

Lilah then plunged into a fierce battle with the attackers.

Meanwhile, outside, things were also shifting.

When Gerard discovered Lilah was missing, he quickly dispatched a group of men to search for her. But Lilah was nowhere to be found at the Morris family's villa.

Feeling uneasy, Gerard sent out additional people to search for Karol and Kaden, only to find they were also gone.

He quickly grasped the situation and ordered his men to seal off the entire villa, prohibiting anyone from entering or leaving.

When Danna learned about the situation, she was furious.

She summoned Gerard and demanded to know his plan.

With many guests present, Danna's actions were effectively putting Gerard on the spot in front of everyone.

It was her birthday party, and she had the power to accuse Gerard of disrespecting her.

"I'm sorry, Mrs. Morris. Someone's gone missing, and I need to locate her," Gerard said, cutting straight to the point and ignoring formalities.

“Who's missing? Make it clear to everyone. Don't think you can play me or the Morris family for fools!"

Danna, who had long harbored a grudge against Gerard, seized the chance to confront him.