Addison raised an eyebrow, observing the situation silently. Marilyn, being compassionate, couldn't possibly remain unconcerned about the girl's well-being. On the outside, Marilyn seemed detached, as though whether Virginia was lost or not was of no consequence to her. However, this was about a person's life, and despite any negative feelings toward Virginia, Marilyn would still know where to draw the line. With a troubled expression, Marilyn hastened toward them, her steps quick and determined. Virginia watched her approach, her brow furrowing instinctively. All of this was Marilyn's fault—Virginia had ended up in tears because of her. If Marilyn hadn't used such hurtful words to humiliate her, Virginia wouldn't have been so upset that she ran off to clear her mind, only to become lost and nearly freeze to death in the wilderness. How dare Marilyn act concerned now after everything she had done?Virginia raised her gaze, quietly studying Marilyn's face. But her expression didn't seem fake—it was genuine worry. Could it be ... she was here to apologize? Standing still, Virginia's thoughts raced. The thought made her instinctively clutch her coat tighter around her body. An apologynow? Itwasfartoolateforthat! She would never forgive Marilyn for what happened earlier. Every word of humiliation would stay with her. Virginia squared her shoulders, putting on an expression that made it clear she wasn't interested in any apology. But to her surprise, when Marilyn finally reached her, instead of addressing her, she walked right past Virginia and grabbed Lance's hand. Virginia stood frozen in place. The concerned look on Marilyn's face wasn't for her—it was for Lance. "Lance, it's so cold out here, and you're only wearing a shirt. You're going to catch a cold if you're not careful. We can't let you get sick ... ""Lana, hurry and get Lance a coat, and make sure it's a thick one. Don't let him catch a cold!" As she spoke, Marilyn cast a brief glance at Virginia's coat, her gaze filled with meaning, without needing to say a word. Although Marilyn remained silent, her eyes clearly communicated her feelings. She was silently accusing Virginia of taking her son's coat and putting him at risk of the cold. In that moment, Virginia's heart sank with regret. Perhaps bringing Lance to Johnston Residence had been a mistake after all. Waking up early to prepare a grand breakfast for Marilyn, all in an effort to win her favor—it now seemed so foolish. Now, it all made sense. No matter what she did, Marilyn would never change how she saw her. In Marilyn's eyes, there would always be only Addison. Frustrated, Virginia lifted her eyes and found herself staring directly into Addison's. They locked eyes, and the tension in Virginia only deepened.Addison's expression reflected surprise, her pale face framed by a few strands of hair clinging to her face, clearly showing her discomfort. What on earth had Virginia been through outside to end up like this?