The other maids went about their tasks in silence, unwilling to speak or offer sympathy. They knew that indiscretion would lead to dismissal.

Holly, indignant, threw down her broom and stormed off to find Kayla, hoping for comfort and support.

Kayla hadn't expected Sebastian to defend Felicia. Her feelings for him were complex—love mingled with fear. His lukewarm responses to her attempts to win his favor always left her disheartened. Could Felicia's preferential treatment stem from their sibling relationship?

A sense of crisis, previously suppressed, overwhelmed Kayla. Felicia, the true Fuller heiress, enjoyed inherent privileges, regardless of her actions. But Kayla's position was precarious; without a fight, Felicia would surely dominate her.

Kayla's eyes hardened as she controlled her anger. Taking Holly's hands, she said gently, "Holly, I know you're doing this for me, but there's nothing I can do now that Sebastian has spoken. I'm in a difficult position. I'll find a way to bring you back later. Is that alright?"

Holly nodded reluctantly.

Kayla smiled, selecting a pair of earrings from her jewelry box. These were the latest, unreleased summer designs by a famous designer, encrusted with sapphires and worth a six-figure sum. Holly gasped, her cheeks flushing with excitement. "Ms. Kayla, are these for me? Aren't they too valuable?"

"Of course! They're beautiful on you. Besides, we're friends. Friendship is priceless." Kayla beamed.

Tears welled in Holly's eyes; her resentment vanished, replaced by regret. Kayla guided Holly to a mirror. "Since you'll be leaving soon, could you do one last favor? You're my only friend, and I'll be alone without you."

"Ms. Kayla, anything! I'd do anything for you!" Holly declared, ready to obey.

A subtle smile played on Kayla's lips as she leaned in to whisper instructions.

Holly's earlier frustration vanished as she left Kayla's room. Humming cheerfully, she walked with a lightness that contrasted sharply with her earlier distress. The other maids, including Nora, were surprised. Nora pulled Holly aside. "What were you talking about with Ms. Kayla?"

"Nothing much. She comforted me," Holly lied unconvincingly.

"Holly," Nora said, "as your aunt, I advise you: Don't get involved in the family's affairs. Find a decent job elsewhere. The Fuller residence isn't suitable for you, and you'll only be exploited."

"Yeah, yeah, Aunt Nora. I'm leaving. Happy now?" Holly waved her off dismissively.

Nora finally relented. Holly pretended to leave, but secretly returned to the second floor and slipped into Felicia's room.