Laura's smile was gentle and serene as she looked up at Brenda.

The moment was interrupted as the door swung open.

A child's voice rang out, "Grandma!"

Brenda's face brightened at the sight of Jerrold, and she quickly scooped him up, inquiring about his well-being.

As Lilah entered the room, Laura's complexion grew paler.

Marlene quickly stepped in, positioning herself between Laura and Lilah protectively. “What brings you here, Lilah Phillips? Looking to cause more harm?" she challenged.

Lilah's smile was thin as she replied, "I'm here to see how the patient is doing. Marlene Phillips, your defensiveness is telling.

Are you worried your schemes might come to Light?"

Marlene, her temper flaring, began to hurl an insult but caught herself mid-breath, mindful of Brenda's presence.

She settled for a stern look. “It's clear to everyone you attacked Laura. She's obviously terrified of you. Can't you see?"

Lilah turned to Laura. "Is that true, Laura? Are you frightened of me?"

Laura, her pallor deepening, shook her head faintly. Her words stumbled out. "No... I'm certain we've just misunderstood each other."

"There you have it, Marlene. Laura herself says she's not afraid of me. I'd appreciate it if you stopped stirring up trouble," Lilah countered, shifting the blame onto Marlene.

Marlene, left speechless, boiled with anger. Internally, she berated Lilah for her brazenness.

Her eyes wandered to the door, filled with expectation.

Suddenly, her face brightened as a reporter, accompanied by an assistant and cameraman, entered the room.

Brenda and Jerrold looked on, puzzled.

Marlene clarified, "Mrs. Harris, they're from a news channel. They're here to interview Laura."

Laura, noticing Brenda's concern, quickly interjected, "Mrs. Harris is with us now. Maybe we should postpone the interview. I'd rather spend time with her."

The reporter, insistent, responded, "Miss Rhodes, I specifically cleared my schedule for you today. We're all looking forward to this.

My calendar is packed for the foreseeable future. If we delay, I might not be able to reschedule for at least a month."

Caught between Brenda and the reporter, Laura looked troubled.

Brenda gestured dismissively. "Go on with the interview. I'll be right here," she reassured, guiding Jerrold to a nearby couch.

"Thank you. This shouldn't take long," Laura said, her voice tinged with relief.