This ignited suspicion.
Whispers started linking the recent turmoil around Marlene to Laura's ordeal. Was there a thread connecting them?
Commentaries flew wild. “The secrets of the highborn are more enigmatic than their romances! Astounding!"
"Is Marlene linked to Laura's attacker? But she stood up for Laura.
It's baffling!"
"I smell a scheme. They might be framing Lilah!"
In response, Laura addressed her followers on social media.
"Apologies for the unnecessary use of public services. Marlene and I are on good terms; what happened last night was just a misunderstanding. Please, let's stop the rumors."
Her statement quelled some of the wild speculation, though it continued to stir mild intrigue.
As the New Year drew near, a wintry veil of snow enshrouded the city.
Lilah, in the spirit of the season, generously rewarded her staff with bonuses and time off.
Yet, her construction team toiled until New Year's Eve, their diligence sweetened by quintuple pay.
On New Year's Eve, Gerard and Jerrold hesitated to depart for the Harris family gathering.
"Would you join us for the New Year?" Gerard asked, his gaze laden with unspoken thoughts.
Beside him, Jerrold looked up, eyes wide and hopeful.
Lilah, touched by their request, hesitated. “It may not be the best idea..."
Gerard countered swiftly, "Nothing improper about it. You're to be my wife."
Jerrold's voice, gentle and pleading, added, "Mommy."
Their appeal was hard to resist.
Still, Lilah held firm. "No, it's not wise. Rumors would fly, and it's time you both went home. I'll find my own way to celebrate."
Despite their longing, Gerard and Jerrold recognized Lilah's resolve.
With no other choice, they departed, leaving Lilah to her solitude.
Lilah reclined on her sofa, her gaze wandering across the expansive living room. Through the window, a dance of snowflakes caught her eye, stirring a chill within her. Perhaps it was the solitude that left her feeling cold.
In her years abroad, her days and nights during holidays were consumed by relentless studies and work.