Recalling Helga's previous deceit, Matthew cast the shopping bag aside and lunged at her, delivering a barrage of punches and kicks.

"If I weren't concerned about some people's wagging tongues over a divorce, I'd have ended this ages ago. You bitch! I'll make you regret for ever crossing me."

Following a merciless onslaught, Helga's face and body exhibited unmistakable evidence of bruising and swelling. Her eyes, filled with tears and anguish, beseeched him, “Matthew, but we're a family, please..."

“Family? You've got to be kidding me. You ruined everything, you conniving bitch!"

Helga shielded her face, crying out in agony.

After a prolonged assault, Matthew, finally feeling fatigued, delivered a vicious kick to Helga before rising. He picked up a bottle of beer from the bag, took several swigs, and ascended the stairs.

She watched him stagger up the stairs. In the aftermath of the savage altercation, Helga lay on the floor, battered and broken.

Tears streamed down her cheeks as she winced in pain, struggling to rise to her feet.

At this moment, she thought about Adaline again.

Consumed by a sense of injustice and bitterness, Helga dwelled on her daughter and her current predicament. Suddenly, her thoughts turned to the person she held responsible for everything.

Lilah!

In Helga's mind, Lilah was the source of all her present suffering.

If it weren't for Lilah, she wouldn't have found herself in this pitiful state. Not only was her wealth and status stripped, but she also had to tolerate Matthew's relentless beatings each day. And Adaline would still be with her.

Helga's eyes glinted with malice as she reflected on the past.

She was determined to make Lilah pay.

The following day, Effie strolled around the second floor of First Mall with Jerrold.

Seeing her nephew joyfully playing, she held his hand and asked gently, "What do you fancy for a snack later? I will treat you."

"I'd like to eat some fruit," Jerrold replied, blinking his innocent eyes.

“Why just fruit? Are you feeling thirsty?" Effie inquired with concern.

Jerrold nodded vigorously.

Gazing at Jerrold's adorable little face, Effie smiled and said, "Alright, I'll..."

Before she could finish, her phone abruptly rang.

Frowning, she retrieved her phone, rejecting the call when she saw Walter's name.

"I'll take you..