She chimed in, "Tess, you know Lilah?"

"Yes, she's my husband's niece," Tess revealed.

This revelation surprised the female star, leading her to jump to conclusions. "Miss Phillips, being Tess' relative, surely you should support her in this situation?"

The rest of the crowd's attention was piqued, many echoing the female star's sentiment that Lilah should side with her family.

Lilah responded coolly, “I only support those who are in the right."

The female star attempted to defend Tess, but Tess intervened with a smile. “It's alright. Lilah has always been steadfast in her beliefs since she was young. She has her own way of seeing things, and we shouldn't interfere.

Tess' diplomatic tone and graceful demeanor were well-received by those around her.

"Tess, you are so kind," the female star commented, her eyes sparkling with admiration.

With a smile, Tess suggested, "Let's head to the fashion show."

The show commenced shortly after, with Lilah and Gerard seated in the front row.

The stunning designs on display lifted Lilah's spirits, leaving her in a good mood.

As the show concluded, Gerard stepped away to take a phone call, and Lilah Lingered in the buffet area.

Meanwhile, Tess, exiting the restroom, noticed Effie approaching Gerard. A thought struck her. Was Effie attempting to charm Gerard?

Tess followed discreetly and, as she suspected, witnessed Effie seemingly spraining her ankle and falling into Gerard's arms. The two of them engaged in conversation.

Tess' expression darkened. She saw through Effie's act; the woman was no good.

Tess imagined Lilah's reaction if she witnessed this scene. Lilah had defended Effie, yet here Effie was, trying to seduce Lilah's boyfriend.

Resolved to intervene, Tess decided to play the role of the protective aunt.

Clap!

Tess' unexpected slap resonated through the room, startling everyone.

"Effie, how could you betray Lilah like this?" Rarely seen in such a fury, Tess' anger drew the attention of the crowd, who quickly gathered around to witness the unfolding drama.

Effie, momentarily stunned by Tess' slap, quickly recovered and, without a moment's hesitation, retaliated with two sharp slaps across Tess' face.

The crowd around them gasped in shock. Was Effie out of her mind to dare strike Tess?

Tess, equally stunned by Effie's audacity, exclaimed, “Effie, you-

How could you be so disrespectful? You manipulated Lilah to defend you, yet you're trying to seduce her boyfriend behind her back. Lilah is too naive."