Carefully, he grabbed it and started eating.

Seeing this, hope bubbled up in Ruby. Maybe, just maybe, he was starting to trust her. A contented smile formed on her face. Kids could be unpredictable but straightforward at times.

When he finished the sandwich, Jerrold's thoughts returned to Lilah.

Why hadn't she visited lately? His eyes brimmed with tears as he remembered their daily encounters. A mixture of sadness and confusion clouded him.

Trying to lift his spirits, Ruby chimed in, “Want something else to eat, honey? Or how about a game?"

Ruby spoke softly, hoping to engage him. But before she knew it, Jerrold was being swept away from his seat. Her heart raced as she recognized Gerard, his imposing figure wrapped in a sleek black suit, looking every bit the formidable man he was.

"Ruby, I already warned you." His voice, deep and captivating, held a note of chilling warning.

She could barely keep the tears at bay, her voice quivering. “He's my son, Mr. Harris. I'd sacrifice everything else, but not him."

Her voice conveyed a mother's unwavering determination.

His eyes, cold and steely, locked onto hers. “If you mean it, then quit the entertainment world. Now."

Stunned, Ruby barely registered his next words, “If that's too much for you, then save your speeches. Jerrold has everything he needs without you."

"No, Jerrold was just happy a moment ago!" Ruby insisted stubbornly; her gaze fixed tenderly on Jerrold. "Sweetie, you also miss Mommy, right?"

Ruby believed that no child could resist their own mother.

However, in the next instant, Jerrold turned his head away, completely ignoring her. Ruby's smile disappeared.

What was wrong with this kid?

How could he be so indifferent to his mother?

"Ruby, did you see that? You'll receive a little punishment as a warning; don't do it ever again, or the consequences will be dire,"

Gerard warned coldly. He then carried Jerrold away. Ruby wanted to catch up but was suddenly accosted by a stranger.

“Are you Ruby? I'm a fan. Can I have an autograph?"

"Get out of my way!" Feeling irritated, Ruby attempted to move past the fan; however, the fan persisted, blocking her path. “I've Liked you for a long time. Please give me an autograph, Ruby!"

His voice was blaring, drawing the attention of many onlookers.

Ruby's latest movie had just hit the screens, catapulting her to newfound fame. In no time, a crowd had gathered around her.

“Oh my gosh, it's really Ruby!"

“I want an autograph too!"