Naomi and her son were abruptly dismissed from the Reed mansion. Onlookers sighed, murmuring that the Wrights had brought this upon themselves. Suzanne's birthday celebration ended prematurely.

In a bedroom, the Reed family doctor examined Gwenda. After determining she was not seriously ill, he reassured Suzanne, "Miss Evans may have choked on some water while drowning and caught a cold. A warm drink is all she needs. Don't worry, ma'am."

"Good, good," Suzanne breathed, relieved. Approaching the bed, she took Gwenda's hand. "Honestly, you scared me to death."

"I'm fine, Grandma," Gwenda replied, looking pale. "Fortunately, it was our pool, not a river. Otherwise, you might have had another heart attack."

Suzanne patted her chest and then asked August, "How's young Mr. Kinney?"

"He's fine. Lucky kid. A hot shower, and he's back to normal," August said, glancing at Gwenda and tsk-ing. "Honestly, you're weaker than a child…"

"Don't tease your cousin," Suzanne scolded, rising. "Help me up. I'll check on young Mr. Kinney."

Piper entered. "Madam."

"Piper, I was just about to find you. The child is alright, yes?" Suzanne asked politely.

Piper smiled and shook her head. "He's fine, as energetic as ever after a hot shower and some chicken soup. However, is Miss Evans alright…?" Piper looked regretful. "I came to apologize to Miss Evans. I'm truly sorry for what happened earlier."

"It's alright, a misunderstanding," Suzanne waved her off. "Since everyone's fine, that's all that matters."

"An apology is still due," Piper insisted, approaching Gwenda, who was still lying down. She bowed contritely.

Gwenda sat up anxiously. "Mrs. Kinney, don't…"

Piper, tears welling, continued, "If it weren't for you, Sylas might be in the hospital. I'm truly grateful and so sorry. I was narrow-minded and believed the rumors about you. They're all lies. Miss Evans, you're a good person, and my family owes you a debt."

"Don't say that," Gwenda replied lightly. "It was the least I could do."

"Just accept it, Gwenda. Don't make things difficult for Mrs. Kinney," August said nonchalantly, arms crossed.

Gwenda, embarrassed, said, "I would have done the same for any child."

"If you need anything, Miss Evans, please ask," Piper promised solemnly.

Gwenda chuckled. "It's alright, Mrs. Kinney. No need for ceremony."

"As long as you let this slide," Piper added.

"Alright, alright," Suzanne said. "This matter is over. The Reeds and Kinneys have always been on good terms. Piper, you don't need to feel guilty. Gwenda isn't petty."

"I can tell. You've taught her well, Madam," Piper smiled.

The housekeeper announced, "Madam, Mr. Wright has arrived with his wife and son."

It was late, making their intentions clear. Suzanne's smile vanished. "Invite them in." Turning to Piper, she said, "Let's meet them together."

"Very well," Piper agreed.

Gwenda wanted to get out of bed. August said, "Stay."

"August, I'm fine. I want to watch the show," she insisted.

"Lie back down!" he commanded.

Gwenda pleaded, clinging to his shirt. "Just let me go. I'm really fine."

Seeing her pallor, August frowned. "Are you sure?"

"Yes! I want to watch the fun," she begged. "Please, pretty please?"

Sighing, August relented. "Put on your shoes!"

"Thanks, August!" Gwenda exclaimed, following them downstairs.