Many offices had closed their doors but the nocturnal rhythm of the city's nightlife had just commenced.

After days of relentless work, Lilah answered Effie's call and headed out for a drink.

"Lilah, you're my ultimate inspiration. Your multifaceted talents are truly awe-inspiring. Now, Aurora Jewelers stands as a renowned jewelry brand in Eleywood! Many of my acquaintances are eager to don your exquisite jewelry," exclaimed Effie, reserving a private room with palpable enthusiasm.

Sporting a radiant smile, Lilah basked in the upbeat atmosphere. “I'm delighted you appreciate it. If any of your friends has suggestions or feedback, feel free to relay them to me."

“Certainly! Let's not forget, you must be utterly drained from your recent endeavors. Let's revel in some merriment tonight!" Effie proposed, raising her glass and clinking it with Lilah's.

The two of them drained their glasses.

Inside the private room, the ambiance was a far cry from the cacophony of the outside world. The music enveloped them, creating a serene backdrop.

Lilah reveled in the tranquility of the moment, her spirits high, but too much drink compelled her to venture to the restroom.

Upon her return, she happened to pass by the adjacent room, where an unmistakable voice reached her ears.

The partially open door revealed Adaline's unmistakable tones. "Ruby, I'm doing this for your sake. Listen carefully, I'm going to ensure you marry into the wealthiest family of Eleywood."

Adaline and Ruby?

How on earth were these two connected?

In her state of bewilderment, Lilah overheard Adaline's next words.

"You're the mother of his child. Every son holds a profound affection for his own mother. His rejection of you is not for any other reason but due to the woman who managed to leap ahead of you!"

"You mean?"

“Lilah!"

Adaline clenched her teeth as she uttered Lilah's name. "Don't underestimate her too readily. She hooked up with Gerard soon after she returned from abroad. It's clear she's scheming. Iker's abandonment of her has fueled her desire to elevate herself and have Gerard confront us. The Phillips family is already teetering on the brink! She's willing to frame her own kin, let alone you! If she learns you're the mother of his child, do you think she'd accept you?"

Adaline was fanning the flames of discord once more! Lilah's countenance darkened and her heart raced.

How would Ruby respond?

A heavy silence hung in the room.

Adaline resumed her sinister manipulation of Ruby. “Ruby, hear me out.

Lilah is a bad person!"

Smash!

The shattering of glass reverberated through the room.