Chapter 72

Jackson and Lilian exited the building. Jackson's aura radiated fury, but Lilian dared to ask, "Jackson… she's the studio owner? I don't believe it." Owner? Impossible. Stephanie must be faking it. When Lilian had left the office earlier, she'd glimpsed dozens of employees—a sizable operation. The Hart family hadn't funded her. Where had the money come from? Even if she had a relationship with her brother's partner, it must have been recently established, right? If she'd had a backer all along, why endure years of Hart family humiliation?

Jackson shot her a cold glare, silent. His phone rang. Seeing the number, he answered urgently: "Mr. Grant." Whatever was said drained the color from his face. "What? I—I only brought Lilian to apologize! Nothing else!" The dial tone replied. Simultaneously, Jackson exuded a murderous aura. Lilian froze, her breath hitching. Jackson's glare could have devoured her whole.

"Stay away from Stephanie," he hissed. "Avoid her. Always." Lilian remained silent. Jackson continued, "If you cross her again…" He left the threat unspoken, but the menace in his eyes extinguished Lilian's doubts about Stephanie's legitimacy. If Jackson had been this enraged since last night, Stephanie's status might indeed be formidable—especially after the call.

Lilian ventured timidly, "Should… should I apologize again?" Jackson replied, "Don't bother. She's already complained to him. Another misstep, and we're finished."

Lilian said, "What? She whined? Like a kid?" "Shut up!" Jackson's rage peaked. Mr. Grant's call had been clear: cease harassing Stephanie. Lilian trembled with rage. She had suffered for Stephanie since last night. Why? What gave her the right?

One Hour Later…

After parting from Jackson, Lilian headed to the hospital. Outside the ward, she overheard Tyler telling Catlin, "Stephanie won't last a week." In their view, her career paths were blocked, her accounts frozen—she'd soon face destitution. Catlin nodded. "Then she'll have no choice but to call Macro and Allison." Tyler agreed, "Exactly." Lilian pushed open the door.

Seeing Lilian, Catlin's face lit with forced warmth. "Lilian!" She clasped Lilian's hands while shooting Tyler a coded glance. Lilian greeted politely, "Mrs. Ashford. How's Olivia?" As she spoke, her gaze fell on the sleeping girl in the hospital bed. Catlin sighed. "Oh, her health is getting worse. I don't know how she's been taking care of herself all these years." "She will be fine," Lilian offered, empty comfort. Catlin nodded. "I'll fetch her some food. You can chat with Tyler." With that, Catlin left.

Lilian turned to Tyler. "Sorry I couldn't come last night." No matter how Lilian pleaded, Jackson had flatly refused—infuriating. Tyler asked, "No matter. Why visit now?" He checked the clock—nearly noon.

Chapter 73 (Beginning)