Her face brightened instantly. "That's wonderful! I was so nervous about meeting Marilyn. Lance, you're the best!" After about half an hour, the car pulled into the driveway of the Johnston Residence and came to a halt. In the yard, Lana was busy trimming flowers and shrubs. When she noticed a car pulling up at the entrance, she squinted to make out the details. Is that Mr. Johnston's car? She examined it more closely, and from the vehicle's shape to the license plate, it was unmistakable—it belonged to Lance! Overcome with excitement, Lana dropped the trimming shears on the ground and rushed into the house. "Mrs. Marilyn, Mr. Johnston has returned to Halton!" she exclaimed. "What?" Marilyn exclaimed in surprise, accidentally pricking her finger on the knitting needle she was using to make a blanket. "Mr. Johnston is back! His car is outside," Lana repeated eagerly.Marilyn immediately put down her knitting, ignoring the blood on her hand, and hurried out to the yard. There she saw Lance stepping out of the car, briefcase in hand, his expression calm as ever. "Lance, you're finally back," Marilyn said, quickly walking up to him and grabbing his hand. "Mr. Johnston, you've returned! Why didn't you let us know ahead of time? I would've prepared a bigger meal," Lana added cheerfully. "It was a last-minute decision," Lance replied slightly apologetically. "I didn't have time to notify you." "It's alright, as long as you're here," Marilyn said warmly, her voice free of blame. A soft smile appeared on her face. But then, her smile vanished. Marilyn's expression turned cold when she noticed Virginia stepping out of the car, carefully lifting the hem of her dress. "Why is she here?" Marilyn's tone was sharp, her gaze as icy and intimidating as Lance's could be. Upon hearing his mother's question, Lance glanced at Virginia.She stood there awkwardly, shrinking under Marilyn's frosty stare. Her head was bowed, and she avoided eye contact, looking timid and unsure. Lance found the situation amusing. Before they arrived, Virginia had been brimming with confidence, assuring him that she would win Marilyn over and change her opinion. But now, all that confidence had evaporated. She seemed like a nervous child caught doing something wrong, too afraid even to approach Marilyn. How could she possibly make his mother happy? She couldn't even muster the courage to stand her ground. Lance doubted there was anything he could do to salvage the situation for her. Feeling overwhelmed, Virginia glanced up and noticed the faint smirk on Lance's lips. It was clear he was mocking her. She stomped her foot in frustration and mouthed silently, "Lance, help me! You promised to protect me, remember? I'm scared!" Virginia pouted, silently pleading with Lance. Though Lance couldn't hear her words, he understood her meaning perfectly.He stopped mocking her, adjusted his tie, and walked toward Virginia, pulling her to stand behind him. "Virginia accompanied me to Kreshill. It was a long journey, so I brought her back with me to rest," he explained. "You brought her to Kreshill?" Marilyn asked, her tone sharp and cold. "Why would you take her there? What could she possibly contribute? "Dragging along someone who's completely useless is nothing but a hassle," she added, her disdain for Virginia clear in her expression. "Virginia is related to the Daves in Kreshill. She was helpful during the trip, even if she didn't accomplish anything significant," Lance defended Virginia. "Her? Connected to the Daves?" Marilyn's eyes briefly showed surprise, though it quickly disappeared. "And what does that matter? Is she capable of persuading the Divine Healer? Can she save your grandfather? "She's good for nothing. All she knows is how to charm men with her tricks. Bringing her back here has done nothing but disgrace the Johnstons!"Marilyn's harsh words made Virginia tremble, and she nearly stumbled. She instinctively grabbed onto Lance's jacket for support. Noticing her fear, Lance reached back and lightly touched her arm, offering silent reassurance. Marilyn caught the interaction and felt even more repulsed. She frowned deeply and turned her gaze away, trying to suppress her rising anger. Once Virginia seemed calmer, Lance straightened and said, "I've managed to invite the Divine Healer." "What?" Marilyn's cold demeanor faltered as surprise crossed her face. "You've secured the Divine Healer?"