Marlene, in an attempt to console Laura, offered her reassurance, saying, “Laura, don't dwell on this. Lilah's made a foolish move and she'll inevitably pay the price for it. Besides, there's word that the government plans to relocate near the plot number three. When that happens, the value of our land will double and we'll reap substantial profits."

Laura responded with a nod, her smile returning.

Initially, Laura had harbored some resentment toward Marlene for the sizable investment in land acquisition.

Nevertheless, if the government indeed relocated to the area, their foresight would be vindicated and they'd earn accolades for their vision.

Amidst the discussions of the businessmen, Lilah remained a mostly attentive but silent observer, savoring the sumptuous dishes before her.

Someone swiveled the table and Lilah watched as her beloved crayfish dish edged farther from her grasp.

In a surprising twist, a slender finger deftly halted the crayfish's retreat, turning it back toward Lilah.

Marlene took note of this and remarked, "Mr. Harris, your thoughtfulness is truly remarkable. How did you know that Laura had a craving for crayfish? Laura, look, Mr. Harris cares deeply for you."

Laura too was taken aback by Gerard's gesture. Her eyes sparkled with a subtle smile as she gazed at him sweetly and expressed her gratitude. “Thank you, Gerard."

Others present couldn't help but glance over, concluding that Gerard's attentiveness to Laura made Lilah's presence superfluous.

Having only known each other for a few months, they naturally lacked the familiarity that Laura and Gerard, who had been acquaintances for years, shared.

As Laura reached out to claim the crayfish, she was surprised to find it still in motion.

“Enjoy it," Gerard whispered to Lilah in a hushed tone.

Lilah's countenance brightened with a sweet smile as she delicately placed some crayfish on her plate.

In an abrupt shift, a hushed stillness descended over the room.

It turned out Gerard had harbored the intention of ensuring Lilah could relish the crayfish.

Laura's actions had the effect of a stinging slap in her face, leaving her feeling acutely embarrassed.

Laura clamped her lower lip tightly between her teeth, as though suppressing an urge to shed tears.

Marlene, too, found herself in a rather uncomfortable position. She hadn't anticipated Gerard's benevolent act was on Lilah's behalf.

What were people thinking about she'd just said?

“Laura, why aren't you eating? You like crayfish, too, right?"

A female voice suddenly broke the silence. Lilah wore a gentle smile as she selected a crayfish and offered it to Laura, saying, “Here.”

With a forced smile, Laura responded, "Thank you."

"You're most welcome. Given your health, what would you like to eat?