“Where are you having dinner tonight?" she asked.

"Just nearby," Lilah replied.

“How about coming to my place? My grandma's back and really wants to have dinner with you," Laura suggested.

"Your grandma wants to dine with me?" Lilah questioned.

Laura admitted, “Yeah, I told her about my dad and she's super grateful to you."

Lilah was confused. Hadn't it been Gerard who found her father?

"It was Gerard who found your father."

Laura clarified, "True, but you must have helped. Grandma insisted on inviting you to dinner."

Anticipating Lilah's decision, Laura looked hopeful, adding, “Please come."

Lilah glanced at Gerard, seeking guidance.

After a moment of hesitation and a nod from Gerard, Lilah agreed, "Okay!"

Laura's grandmother, Astrid Rhodes, seemed like a good person and Lilah was curious about her.

Plus, the Rhodes family and the Harris family had been friends for ages. It would be rude not to show up if the Rhodes folks were expecting Gerard.

Laura, all cheerful, suggested, “Hang around here for a bit and we'll head there together later.”

Around five, they set off for the Rhodes family's old mansion.

Effie wrapped up her tasks, got in touch with Lilah, and found out they were heading to the Rhodes family's old mansion for dinner.

Since the two families were close, Effie tagged along.

Upon reaching the mansion, Lilah laid eyes on Astrid.

Astrid, at seventy with gray hair, carried herself with elegance, like an old-school princess.

Her husband, Braden Rhodes, matched her in gentleness and elegance.

Together, they made a picture-perfect pair. After greeting her grandparents, Laura introduced Lilah.

But when the elderly couple laid eyes on Lilah for the first time, they were taken aback.

Lilah reminded them of their eldest daughter, Joselyn.

Politely, Lilah greeted, "Good evening, Mr. Rhodes, Mrs. Rhodes. I'm Lilah Phillips."