Despite her love for her son, Mary empathized with Kelly's heightened emotions in such a critical situation. With Lilith lying in the hospital bed, Mary understood that if she were in Kelly's position, she might have reacted similarly. Recognizing Jay's determination to stay, Mary glanced up at Steven, silently conveying her thoughts to him, seeking his support and understanding in handling the delicate dynamics within the group.
Steven picked up on Mary's hint and understood the situation. He approached William and spoke up, "Let Jay stay. We can't predict what will happen once Lilith wakes up, and having Jay here provides us with additional support and strength."
Steven's words aimed to emphasize the importance of unity and the need for collective support during this uncertain time.
William, being a man of rationality, recognized the validity of Steven's words.
Considering the fears surrounding Lilith's potential drug exposure, the group shared concerns about the consequences once she regained consciousness. It was evident that Jay's expertise in his line of work as an anti-drug police officer would be invaluable in assessing the situation, given his knowledge of various drug types and compositions. The group acknowledged that Jay could provide crucial assistance when it came to understanding and dealing with any drug-related issues that might arise.
He came forward to persuade Kelly, who later cried, did not answer.
Observing the dynamics and realizing the importance of having Jay's expertise, William nodded in agreement.
Seeing this, Lenard quickly recognized the significance as well and offered to stay alongside Jay. Understanding the potential challenges they might face, Lenard saw the value in having both Jay and himself present to support Lilith and navigate any drug-related concerns that may arise.
Irish took a step forward and positioned herself in front of Lenard, effectively blocking his path. Her tone was firm as she addressed him directly, "Mr. Lenard, I believe it would be best for you to go home. Lilith's decision to break off the engagement has caused significant damage to your reputation, and even your father has severed ties with the Runestone Group. It is likely that you have been advised to refrain from seeing Lilith as well."
Lenard felt a sense of awkwardness and cleared his throat before responding, "I understand that the current situation may seem unfavorable, but I believe it is temporary. Misunderstandings can be addressed and resolved over time." He tried to convey his belief that the current circumstances could be rectified and that the strained relationships could potentially be repaired with open communication and understanding.
"To resolve this misunderstanding, it is crucial to uncover the truth. Lenard, you are well aware of the truth, so why do you persist in avoiding it?" Irish inquired, emphasizing the importance of addressing the situation honestly and transparently.
Her words choked Lenard.
Cassie took a step forward and expressed her perspective, "Considering the current circumstances, it might not be suitable for you to stay tonight. Moreover, leaving so many people in the ward would be impractical. If your intention is genuinely to resolve the misunderstanding, perhaps it would be best to initiate the process by having a conversation with your father." Cassie emphasized the need for a practical and strategic approach to address the situation effectively.
Lenard turned to William, seeking his assistance.
Aware that the trend had already faded, William let out a sigh and advised, "Lenard, it would be best for you to return now."
Upon hearing William's words, Lenard comprehended the situation and nodded in agreement. He replied, "Well... I'll return tomorrow then."
Irish remained indifferent. She was well aware that Jay would not be concerned either, as his focus was solely on Lilith.
Around eight o'clock in the evening, Joseph and Roy also arrived at the hospital.
It was Irish who contacted Joseph, informing him that Lilith had been admitted to the hospital and that she might need to return home later. Without uttering a word, Joseph rushed to the hospital. Joseph, aware that Cassie was staying with Irish and hadn't gone home, Roy also hurried to the hospital.
Joseph inquired about the situation first and then persuaded Cassie to go home. Roy expressed concern for her well-being as well. Cassie had no choice but to agree and promised Irish that she would immediately inform her if anything happened.
Irish nodded in agreement.
Irish suggested, "Why don't you take our aunt and uncle home first?"
Joseph grabbed Irish's arm gently, lowering his voice as he spoke. "The doctor mentioned that Lilith won't wake up until at least midnight. It would help if you came home with me for now. Lilith is not in any immediate danger, and Jay is here with her."
Irish insisted on staying at the hospital for a while longer.
Joseph reluctantly tried to persuade Mary and Steven to go home first. Jay also emerged from the room and urged Mary to hurry home and get some rest.
Mary anxiously glanced towards the ward and expressed her concern, "Kelly is so cunning, and with you here, I'm really worried. Just look at her demeanor, it seems like she wants to devour you."
Jay responded nonchalantly, "That's not surprising."
Before Mary could say anything else, she witnessed Kelly stumbling out of the ward and desperately grabbing hold of Jay. She appeared distraught as she shared the news, "Lilith woke up, but she mentioned feeling like bugs have bitten her entire body. Jay, do you think... could she be addicted to drugs?"
What everyone dreaded came to pass, taking everyone by surprise.
When Kelly's words trailed off, Jay swiftly dashed into the ward ahead of everyone else.
Irish overheard the commotion, and as the door to the sick room was pushed open, she was met with Lilith's piercing and frenzied screams, accompanied by the sound of things being smashed.
Suddenly, Irish felt a powerful impact at the back of her head, as if she had been struck with a heavy blow. A buzzing sensation filled her mind, and everything went blank.
Fortunately, strong arms swiftly caught her, preventing her legs from giving way and keeping her from collapsing to the ground.
She raised her eyes. It was Joseph with an eye of concern.
"I'll go inside and take a look," Irish managed to say, her voice sounding feeble and distant, as if she were walking on cotton.
Upon seeing her condition, Joseph assisted her into the ward.
Inside the ward, chaos reigned, with things strewn about in disarray.
A scene unfolded before her eyes: the door had shattered into fragments, littering the ground. The blanket lay partially on the floor, and the flowers and fruit baskets were strewn haphazardly all around.