“True, a lovely mother and a handsome father result in such a charming child."

Hearing such remarks, Lilah felt slightly flustered. Were they really being perceived as a family unit?

Meanwhile, Gerard wore a subtle grin, while Jerrold gleefully skipped between them, holding Lilah's hand.

"Seems there's some online noise about you," Gerard remarked, his piercing gaze searching hers, silently offering support.

Lilah shrugged nonchalantly. “Let them chatter. I stand by my work and convictions. If anything, I hope they ramp up the drama."

Her confidence was palpable, which Gerard admired silently.

Come dawn, both Gerard and Jerrold escorted Lilah to the airport. As she walked toward her gate, Lilah frequently glanced back, locking eyes with the reassuring silhouettes of the devoted duo she was leaving behind.

The feeling was oddly reminiscent of a familial farewell. As she made her way toward the boarding gate, she found herself grinning.

Once Lilah's silhouette was lost in the swarm of travelers, Gerard shifted his gaze to Jerrold, nestled in his arms. "Remember our chat from last night?"

Jerrold gave an affirmative nod.

"If Lilah becomes a part of our family, you could accompany her everywhere."

A gleam of hope sparkled in Jerrold's eyes. "I'll assist in any way I can, Daddy."

Gerard smiled, ruffling Jerrold's hair before guiding him to their sleek black Rolls-Royce.

Lilah's flight was seamless.

In Rivendell, Janet Evans clutched a placard inscribed with “L.P", eagerly scanning the bustling crowd intently.

A sea of passengers poured out, and among them was an elegant woman approaching her. The warmth in her smile was mesmerizing. Janet assumed she was seeking directions, but was taken aback when the elegant woman introduced herself. "Hello there, I am L.P."

Still in disbelief, Janet pressed, "Which L.P might you be?"

It was hard to fathom that the renowned L.P, synonymous with groundbreaking designs, could be so youthful. She had pictured a seasoned, middle-aged figure.

With a resigned sigh, Lilah explained, "I am the jewelry designer, LP."

She then produced her phone, displaying the email for validation.

Janet's disbelief transformed into awe. The revelation that L.P was so young and glamorous would certainly send ripples through the design world.

Regaining her composure, Janet introduced herself. “Welcome, L.P. I'm Janet Evans, your liaison for this event. Let me escort you to your accommodation."

Lilah was led to a luxurious five-star hotel, with numerous contestants pouring in.

The entrance was momentarily eclipsed by a flashy pink Maserati. A woman, oozing opulence, emerged, donning high heels, sunglasses, and a Chanel handbag. Her grandeur immediately became the topic of murmured conversations.