Marlene looked at Laura, guilt-ridden. “I'm sorry, Laura. I didn't expect them to catch the real culprit."

Laura, visibly wounded and her plan to implicate Lilah foiled, received Marlene's sympathy.

"It's okay. Even the best-laid plans go awry," she consoled her friend, despite her own disappointment.

Her words only deepened Marlene's guilt. “Laura, please rest assured.

I'll make sure Gerard sees how kind you are. Lilah will never become a part of the Harris family."

Laura responded with a serene smile, choosing not to reply.

In the corridor, Jerrold held Lilah's hand, his worry and concern evident in his eyes. His expression almost melted Lilah's heart. She knew her brilliant son had likely figured out what had transpired.

"Don't worry, Jerrold. I'm fine. Your mommy is like a superhero; no one dares to mess with me."

With childlike determination, Jerrold vowed, “I'll grow up quickly so I can protect you, Mommy."

“Alright, I'll be waiting for you, Lilah replied with a reassuring smile.

Jerrold then turned to Brenda. “And Grandma too. I'll protect Grandma."

Brenda was filled with joy at his statement.

In the past, Jerrold had always been alone, quiet, and reluctant to talk. Brenda had been concerned about him. However, since Lilah's return, Jerrold gradually became like any other kid.

With a radiant smile, Brenda responded, "That's wonderful! I'll eagerly await your transformation into a fine young man, Jerrold."

Jerrold nodded in earnest agreement.

Brenda affectionately brushed a hand against Jerrold's cheek and turned her gaze to Lilah. “Lilah, you've been through a lot this time."

"Please don't take it to heart. I don't feel wronged. The misunderstanding has been cleared up," Lilah replied with a gracious smile, showing that she harbored no ill feelings.

Brenda let out a sigh of relief and grew fonder of Lilah by the moment.

Her thoughts then shifted to Laura, realizing she still didn't know much about her.

Laura seemed different, yet somehow the same.

Brenda wondered if her years in a coma had left a significant impact on her.

Upon noticing Brenda's somber mood, Lilah deftly changed the subject.

“Laura is injured. Hasn't her mother arrived yet?"

Sometimes Lilah was curious about Laura's relationship with her mother. Hadn't they said Laura was a pampered princess at home? It seemed that wasn't the case now.