Jenna, cornered by the expectant eyes around her, reddened with embarrassment and reluctantly apologized. “I'm sorry, I misunderstood.

I was just surprised by Jerrold's untrained talent. My words were careless," she said, her expression aggrieved as if she had been wronged.

Lilah, undeterred, retorted, "I've never seen Vera paint either. Does that mean I can accuse her of cheating for her second prize?"

The crowd murmured in agreement, noting Jerrold's lineage. “He is Gerard's son, after all. Gerard's excellence is bound to reflect in him."

Jenna, feeling the blame shift to her, fought back tears, inwardly cursing the fickle crowd. "No, that's not what I meant," she muttered.

Brenda, holding Jerrold, spoke gently yet firmly. “Jerrold has always been excellent, and under Lilah's care, he'll only shine brighter.

Jenna, Vera is a fine girl, but that doesn't mean you can dismiss others' talents."

Jenna, deflated, barely managed a response.

Seeing the tears brimming in her mother's eyes, Vera held her hand to offer comfort. Her gaze on Jerrold was filled with animosity; she blamed the others for their perceived injustice.

After the event, Jenna and Vera retreated to their car, where Jenna broke down in tears.

“Enough, stop crying! You were too hasty in accusing Jerrold at the banquet. Naturally, they were upset," Felipe scolded.

"How can you blame me? I did it for Vera. As her father, you should have defended her," Jenna shot back, her emotions raw and unchecked.

Felipe, witnessing the emotional scene, asked, “And how did defending her turn out?"

Jenna's tears only intensified.

Vera, trying to console her mother, wiped away her mother's tears.

“Don't cry, Mom. I'll work harder and become even better."

Jenna embraced Vera, her voice full of love. "You are so talented, my dear. One day, you'll outshine them all. Jerrold may draw, but you excel in a lot of things."

Vera's eyes sparkled with resolve. "I won't let him beat me."

Jenna found a bit of solace in Vera's determination.

Felipe, looking at them, sighed and wrapped them both in a hug.

"Don't worry. Lilah is just an ordinary woman, and Jerrold inherits from her. Vera, you're the prodigy here. Our family's future is bright with you.

"Yes, Dad."

As the banquet concluded, Brenda took Lilah aside. “Don't let others‘ words get to you. You're the best daughter-in-law I could ask for."

Lilah felt a warmth spreading through her at Brenda's words. "Thank you."