Our patriarch promised us all apartments. Everyone's getting their own property down the line, right? And hey, if I end up in charge, you'll get your perks too. No worries.”

Her words sparked hope in the eyes of the others.

They couldn't get more from Onyx if he stayed in charge.

But Lilah threw down a promise-another property for each of them if she became the leader.

They all agreed, hands down. Onyx had already guaranteed them apartments and no matter who ran the show, he couldn't back out.

Everyone aimed for as many properties as they could get.

Moreover, each of those properties was worth a cool few million, no doubt.

Marlene saw it all in their eyes and anger flared up in her chest.

She realized she not only cost her old man a bundle but also handed Lilah a shot at being the next leader.

Lance shot her a stern look. Marlene pressed her lips together and leaned in to whisper in Lance's ear. Finally, his expression softened.

Lilah noticed their hushed chat.

She figured Marlene had more tricks up her sleeve.

Lunchtime was around the corner.

Marlene cleared her throat. "Hold up, folks. We're waiting on someone."

They all glanced around, wondering who was still to show.

"My boyfriend's on the way," Marlene blurted out, a bit bashful.

Surprise spread as no one knew Marlene was off the market. One asked, "Marlene, you have a man now? What family is he from?"

With a blush, Marlene spilled, "You'll find out soon enough."

While she spoke, she shot a scornful look at Lilah.

Lilah squinted a bit, mot expecting Marlene to have a romantic interest. Judging by her attitude, Lilah figured the guy wasn't your average Joe.

Matthew asked, "Lilah, hasn't Gerard shown up yet?"

“Maybe he'll be fashionably late," Lilah replied, not giving much away.

Disdain flashed in Marlene's eyes. She didn't think Gerard would attend the Phillips family gathering with Lilah. Gerard was too high-caliber to truly be into Lilah, she thought.

Marlene believed her case was different. Her heart swelled with pride because her boyfriend was head over heels for her.