"I've been in the restroom all this while. You simply didn't notice me," Adaline said with a smirk. She had never anticipated stumbling upon such an exhilarating spectacle.

Adaline then continued, "Ruby, now you grasp the reality, don't you?

Lilah isn't a trustworthy friend. If it weren't for her, you'd already be Mrs. Harris, a distinguished socialite in Eleywood, and nobody would dare oppose you."

A shade of darkness veiled Ruby's eyes.

"Undoubtedly, it's not too late now. I can assist you. What's your decision?"

"What are you after?" Ruby inquired.

"The influence of your fanbase is substantial and there are fervent online allies who can't abide Lilah, just like me."

Adaline gently patted Ruby on the shoulder.

Ruby's gaze turned icy, yet she didn't refuse; she just silently made her exit.

Adaline watched Ruby's retreating form and couldn't suppress a smile, retrieving her phone which she had used to record these few minutes dialogue.

"Lilah, you've harmed me. Just await my retaliation! In Eleywood, there shall be no sanctuary for you!"

After their meal, Lilah presumed they would be driving back but Gerard disclosed, “Our chauffeur has other obligations today.”

"Shall we summon a taxi?"

"This place is not too distant from Starlight Mansion. Let's take a leisurely stroll back."

Not far? In actuality, it was a half-hour's journey on foot! Lilah found herself puzzled by his proposition but, given her recent whirlwind of commitments, she concurred.

The trio strolled down the avenue. Gerard, with his towering stature and striking handsomeness, Lilah, exuding remarkable beauty with her extraordinary features, and little Jerrold, adorably sandwiched between them, clutching both of their hands-it was a mesmerizing tableau.

Passersby couldn't resist reaching for their phones to capture the captivating scene.

“My, oh my, this trio is a feast for the eyes."

"This Little one seems to have inherited all the best qualities from his parents! Just look at him, he's still so young, yet his nose is as chiseled as his father's and his eyes rival his mother's in beauty!" one passerby marveled.

Their remarks resonated with Lilah and Gerard, prompting them to unconsciously fix their gaze on Jerrold. They had to acknowledge that the passerby was spot-on!

Jerrold indeed appeared to be a harmonious blend of them both.

Lilah shook her head. She must be losing her mind!

Out of the blue, a strong arm encircled her waist and, in the blink of an eye, Lilah found herself enveloped in Gerard's protective embrace, nestled against his robust chest. It took her by surprise for a moment and then she raised her head, casting him a mildly irritated Look.

Swish!