"My dearest Lilah, when you read this, I'll be gone. My biggest worry is you. The Phillips family, and I, owe you so much. I've tried to make it right, but the best way is to tell you the truth.

In fact, you are not—"

"Ahh!" Suddenly, a vase hit her hand and she let out a cry of pain.

The letter dropped to the floor and was quickly picked up by a big hand.

Lilah looked up to see Matthew burning the paper with a lighter, the fire soon consuming it.

“Matthew, you promised to tell me what Grandpa said in his letter, but why are you doing this? Are you treating me like a fool?"

Lilah's gaze was piercing; she was furious. What on earth was Matthew hiding her from?

Matthew's expression darkened. “I intended to tell you, but you shouldn't break into my safe like this."

"The first page of Grandpa's letter was still here a moment ago, yet you lied, saying it was long gone, and now you even burned it.”

Lilah's voice dripped with sarcasm. "What are you hiding?"

Matthew's complexion shifted between shades of anger and pallor.

"There's a reason why I didn't give it to you. I don't want you to be upset because of it."

"And what reason is that?" Lilah pressed.

“Do you really think your grandfather loved you? He was grooming someone to help the company," Matthew retorted. "He did everything for the business, a cold and ruthless man. I'm your father, Lilah.

I want what's best for you."

Lilah's expression remained icy. "I don't believe a word you say now."

“Remember, I am your father."

"And have you ever acted Like one throughout my childhood?" Lilah's sarcasm was biting as she turned to leave, leaving Matthew in his anger.

Back at her apartment, the darkness enveloped her. Turning on the lights, Lilah peered out at the brightly lit city. She felt an overwhelming sense of loneliness, like a beast ready to devour her.

Deciding to drown her thoughts in work, she sat down with her laptop.

That was when a message popped up.

“Could you check my apartment? I think I left an electric switch on."

It was from Gerard.

Standing up, Lilah made her way to his apartment, key in hand.