"Your actions warrant such admonishment. At your age, meddling in the affairs of the youth is unbecoming. Get out of my sight!" Brenda ordered.

"Fine, I'm leaving!"

Without warning, the door swung open, a sudden occurrence that startled Lilah, leaving her face-to-face with a man.

This gentleman, seemingly in his fifties, wore a suit with an air of vitality and a trace of the handsome countenance of his prime. His features bore a striking resemblance to Gerard, leading one to surmise that he was, in all likelihood, Gerard's father, Richard Harris.

Lilah hesitated about whether to offer her greetings.

In contrast, Richard bestowed upon her a frigid glance, accompanied by a derisive snort, before making his departure.

Within the confines of the living room, Lilah's presence did not go unnoticed.

Brenda promptly approached with a cheerful countenance, declaring, “Ah, Lilah, you've arrived! Come inside right away; we've all eagerly anticipated your arrival."

Observing Richard's gradual retreat, Lilah remarked in hushed tones, “Well... Is Mr. Harris not accompanying us, I wonder?"

Brenda responded with a disdainful eye roll, remarking, “Pay him no heed!"

Subsequently, she ushered Lilah inside and promptly sealed the door.

Curiously, Lilah found herself mildly amused.

She had anticipated Richard to possess a steely demeanor, yet it appeared his standing within the family was less formidable than she had first surmised.

Jerrold had been eagerly anticipating Lilah's arrival and the moment he laid eyes upon her, he rushed toward her exclaiming, “Lilah!"

“Happy birthday, my dear! I have brought you a present.”

Lilah embraced Jerrold, presenting him with a toy race car.

In truth, Jerrold had long outgrown the age for indulging in such juvenile playthings. Nevertheless, at this moment, he beamed with joy, clutching the toy as if it were a priceless treasure bestowed by Lilah.

“Lilah, thank you. I've truly missed you," Jerrold uttered in his gentle, sincere voice.

"I've missed you too."

Lilah affectionately ruffled his hair, thoroughly enchanted by his undeniable charm.

Brenda observed the scene, her grin unwavering. As the years advanced, her greatest delight stemmed from witnessing the happiness and unity within her family. Lilah's presence had rekindled Jerrold's childlike side, rendering him more open and communicative.

However, while she observed the scene unfolding before her, Brenda couldn't dispel the unsettling notion that something was awry.

Their resemblance was uncannily reminiscent of a mother and her son!

“Supper is ready."