Marlene regained her composure and implored, “Absolutely not. Mr. Harris, please take us to the hospital."

Casting a profound look at Laura nestled in Marlene's arms, Gerard nodded and extended his hand to Lilah. "Let's go."

"Okay."

Subsequently, they made their way to the hospital.

Upon reaching the medical facility, the doctor began examining Laura.

In the corridor, Gerard and his companions lingered, until a sudden ring pierced the air from Gerard's mobile device.

“Gerard, is there something amiss with Laura?" Tracy bellowed in a heightened tone through the phone.

“Yes, she has sustained an injury. The doctor is currently assessing her condition," Gerard responded calmly.

“Gerard, you and Laura grew up together. You're aware of her delicate condition. She cannot endure further harm. Alert me promptly when you identify the one responsible for Laura's suffering," Tracy asserted in an icy tone.

“Okay.”

Upon hearing this, Marlene suppressed the urge to speak and, immediately after the call concluded, she bit her lip, addressing Gerard. "As you witnessed, Laura was utterly terrified upon seeing Lilah earlier. If Lilah hadn't inflicted harm upon her..

“Marlene, it appears that the Dillon Group has inflated your sense of self-importance." Gerard suddenly pierced Marlene with his cold, inscrutable eyes. “Who granted you the audacity to cast aspersions on my girlfriend with such malice?"

Silenced, as if a stranglehold had been placed on her, Marlene nursed her smoldering resentment for Gerard deep within her heart.

Gerard had unwavering faith in Lilah now, yet what would occur when he finally realized that Lilah was the sole suspect?

After some time, the doctor concluded the examination on Laura. Her body bore visible bruises and she had fainted due to the trauma. It was anticipated that she would regain consciousness shortly.

Marlene volunteered to stay by Laura's side, while the Rhodes family's maid was en route.

Gerard and Lilah returned to the Starlight Mansion.

"I truly heard nothing at all. I entered and emerged shortly thereafter." Lilah furrowed her brow and expressed her impatience, saying, "Next thing I knew, Laura emerged, bearing a multitude of wounds.

“Don't worry. I know you're innocent," Gerard consoled her, gently stroking Lilah's head. “I've dispatched someone to investigate. The truth behind all this will come to light soon."

Lilah nodded in response.

She ventured to see Jerrold, who was sound asleep.

Her fingers tenderly caressed Jerrold's cherubic face.

“Darling, there's someone trying to drive a wedge between your mom and dad but I'll never let these bad people get their way," Lilah whispered, bestowing a gentle kiss upon Jerrold's innocent brow.

The following day arrived.