A voice confirmed, "Indeed."

Seething with rage, Regina debated not paying the hefty sum. However, with countless witnesses that day, she couldn't just ignore it.

Begrudgingly, she transferred the amount, and every digit deepened her resentment toward Adaline. In her mind, she plotted revenge, imagining the day Adaline left the hospital, vulnerable and within her grasp.

At Aurora Jewelers, Lilah's office had undergone a change with new furniture arrivals. As expected, Lilah's account saw the compensation from Regina. Regina had live-streamed the whole ordeal, essentially painting herself into a corner.

Online sentiments seemed unanimous: people were furious with Adaline.

In the public opinion crisis, Helga was determined to shift the narrative. She posted a video, passionately detailing their side of the story. In her narrative, Adaline's actions were sacrifices for the Phillips family. But it was Lilah's actions, according to Helga, that had led to Adaline's tragic condition-infertility. With some digital manipulation, paid commenters began to flood the platform.

“sure, it stings that Adaline's child wasn't Iker's, but how could Lilah, her own sister, play a part in such a tragedy? The CEO of a major company showing such cruelty?"

"Seeing Lilah harm her sister without a shred of remorse? She's lost her humanity."

"“Lilah's actions not only devastated her family but also irreparably harmed her own nephew. Unbelievable!"

These comments struck a chord with compassionate users who began to rally against Lilah, condemning her perceived actions. Calls for boycotting Aurora Jewelers grew louder, casting a shadow over the brand.

Meanwhile, Xavier Jewelers reaped the benefits of Aurora's misfortune.

Many customers diverted their purchases there.

Evelyn, keeping a close eye on the unfolding drama, couldn't suppress a sly smile. She swiftly acted, instructing her assistant to push Helga's video to the forefront of everyone's feeds. “Ensure Helga's video tops the trending charts. Keep it there, whatever the cost."

Evelyn sensed an opportunity, a potential turning point in her favor.

Gerard, worried about the backlash from the Internet that could hurt Lilah, sent her a quick message. "You up for dinner tonight? I'll swing by."

“Sounds good," Lilah replied.

Soon enough, Gerard's sleek car halted in front of her workplace. As she climbed in, a familiar chirp greeted her. “Hey, Mom!"

It was Jerrold, his voice light as a feather. Lilah, feeling the weight of her worries Lift, hugged him close, reveling in the warmth and comfort he offered.

“You miss me, baby?" Lilah asked, her eyes dancing with amusement.

Jerrold raised his head and planted a soft kiss on her cheek.

"Missed you loads!"

The kiss from Jerrold lightened Lilah's spirit. She gently pinched his cheek, feeling a burst of happiness unlike any other.

Today, it was just Gerard at the wheel, and with Jerrold and Lilah, the car was filled with an intimate warmth. They pulled up to an upscale barbecue restaurant, the kind that promised more than just a meal.

Once seated in a secluded room, Gerard was in charge of grilling food. Holding the barbecue tongs and scissors, there was this undeniable allure about him; a seriousness that hinted at the steel beneath. Lilah found herself stealing glances at him, completely captivated.