The next day Marinette sat at the breakfast table with her aunt Mei, the morning sunlight streaming through the windows, casting a warm glow over the cozy kitchen.
"Aunt Mei, I need to tell you something," Marinette began, her voice tinged with a hint of nervousness.
Mei looked up from her cup of tea, her eyes curious. "What is it, Marinette? You seem a bit on edge."
Taking a deep breath, Marinette plunged into the conversation. "I've made a decision about my finances, particularly regarding Jay and our future together."
Mei raised an eyebrow, her interest piqued. "Oh? Do tell, Marinette."
"I've decided to share all my financial reports and ownership details with Jay before we get married," Marinette revealed, her tone determined.
Mei's expression shifted, a furrow forming between her brows. "Marinette, are you sure about this? Have you considered the implications, especially with your parents' will?"
Marinette blinked in surprise. "What do you mean, Aunt Mei? What does their will have to do with this?"
Mei hesitated, choosing her words carefully. "Marinette, in your parents' will, there's a clause stating that if you marry under community property, you'll lose control of your inheritance."
Marinette's heart skipped a beat as the weight of Mei's words sank in. She hadn't considered the legal ramifications of her decision, so focused was she on being open and transparent with Jay.
"I... I had no idea," Marinette admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.
Mei reached out, placing a comforting hand on Marinette's shoulder. "It's alright, Marinette. These things can be complicated, but it's important to understand the consequences of your choices, especially when it comes to your financial future."
Marinette nodded, grateful for Mei's wisdom and guidance. "Thank you, Mei. I appreciate your honesty and concern. I'll talk to Mike about this and make sure we find the best solution for me and Jay."
With Mei's support, Marinette felt a renewed sense of clarity and determination. She may have to adjust her plans, but she was confident that she could navigate this challenge with wisdom and foresight.
As they finished their breakfast, Marinette made a mental note to schedule another meeting with Mike, this time to discuss the implications of her parents' will and how it would affect her decision to share her financial information with Jay. And with Mei by her side, she knew she had the strength and support to face whatever obstacles lay ahead.
Later Marinette arrived at Jay's apartment, her mind still reeling from her conversation with Mei. She took a deep breath to steady herself before knocking on the door. Jay opened it with a bright smile, oblivious to the turmoil brewing within Marinette.
"Hey, Marinette! Come on in," Jay greeted her warmly, gesturing for her to enter.
"Thanks, Jay," Marinette replied, forcing a smile as she stepped inside.
Jay noticed the tension in Marinette's demeanor but chose to ignore it, hoping to maintain the illusion of normalcy. "Is everything alright, Marinette? You seem a bit off today."
Marinette hesitated for a moment before deciding to broach the subject head-on. "Actually, Jay, there's something important I need to talk to you about."
Jay's smile faltered slightly, but he quickly regained his composure. "Of course, Marinette. What's on your mind?"
Taking a deep breath, Marinette plunged into the conversation. "I spoke with Aunt Mei this morning, and she brought up something I hadn't considered before regarding our finances and my parents' will."
Jay's expression remained neutral, though a flicker of apprehension flashed in his eyes. "Oh? What did she say?"
Marinette explained Mei's concerns about the clause in her parents' will regarding marriage under community property and the potential implications for her inheritance.
Jay listened attentively, his features carefully schooled into a mask of indifference. "Yes I'm aware Mike told me when he came to see me yesterday. Well, Marinette, I understand your concerns, but you know I'm not interested in your money. I love you for who you are, not your wealth."
Marinette couldn't help but feel a twinge of doubt at Jay's seemingly rehearsed response. Was he truly unconcerned about the financial implications of their relationship, or was he merely putting on a brave front?
"Jay, I appreciate your reassurance, but this is a serious matter," Marinette insisted, her voice tinged with uncertainty.
Jay reached out, taking Marinette's hand in his. "Marinette, trust me. We'll figure this out together. I'm not going anywhere, regardless of what happens with your inheritance."
Marinette blinds believes Jay's words, and trusts in the sincerity of his intentions.
"Thank you, Jay," Marinette murmured, returning his smile. "I'm glad I can always count on you."
As they embraced, she pushed aside her doubts, choosing to focus on the love and support they shared in the face of uncertainty. Only time would tell whether Jay's assurances were genuine or merely a facade.
As Marinette glided through the grand entrance of her opulent mansion, a sense of serenity enveloped her. The lavish surroundings provided a comforting backdrop to her tranquil state of mind.
Hearing the familiar melodies of Luka's guitar echoing through the halls, Marinette followed the sound with a smile, her heart light with anticipation. She found Luka seated in the elegant living room, his fingers dancing effortlessly over the strings of his guitar, a stethoscope draped casually around his neck.
"Luka!" Marinette exclaimed, her voice filled with genuine joy. "What a wonderful surprise!"
Luka looked up, a warm smile lighting up his features as he set aside his guitar and rose to greet her. "Marinette, hey!" he greeted her warmly, enfolding her in a gentle embrace. "I thought I'd stop by and share some music with you between shifts."
Marinette returned his embrace with a contented sigh, feeling grateful for the simple pleasure of his company. "Thank you, Luka," she said sincerely, her eyes sparkling with appreciation. "Your music always brings me such joy."
They settled onto the plush couch together, Marinette sinking into the luxurious cushions as Luka resumed playing his guitar, the melodic notes filling the room with a sense of peace and tranquility.
As they conversed, Marinette found herself reveling in the easy camaraderie she shared with Luka, their conversation flowing effortlessly from one topic to the next. With no concerns weighing on her mind, she was free to bask in the moment, enjoying the company of her dear friend amidst the splendor of her magnificent home.
As the evening wore on, Marinette felt a profound sense of gratitude wash over her, knowing that she was truly blessed to have friends like Luka who brought light and joy into her life. And as Luka's music continued to weave its spell, Marinette couldn't help but feel a deep sense of contentment, knowing that in this moment, all was right with the world.
That evening Lila stood outside Jay's apartment building, her emotions still raw from the previous day's encounter. As she took a deep breath to steady herself, she reminded herself to remain composed, to keep her emotions in check.
With a determined stride, Lila made her way up to Jay's apartment and knocked firmly on the door. This time, she was prepared, her mind clear and focused on her objective.
Jay opened the door, his expression guarded as he met her gaze. But before he could utter a word, Lila spoke, her voice steady and resolute.
"Jay, we need to talk," she said firmly, holding his gaze with unwavering determination.
Jay's brow furrowed in annoyance, but he stepped back, allowing her to enter the apartment.
Once inside, Lila wasted no time in getting to the point. "I've had time to think," she began, her tone measured. "And I've come up with a plan."
Jay's eyes narrowed, his curiosity piqued despite himself. "A plan?" he echoed, his voice tinged with skepticism.
Lila nodded, her resolve unwavering. "Yes. If you truly love me, as you claim, then you'll listen to what I have to say."
Jay hesitated, but ultimately nodded, signaling for her to continue.
"Marinette's money," Lila began, her voice low but steady. "We can still get it without you having to marry her."
Jay's eyes widened in surprise, disbelief written clearly across his features. "How?" he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.
Lila's heart was pounding with anticipation as she laid out her plan. "I know the password to Marinette's safe. We can use that to our advantage. On the day of the wedding, while everyone is distracted, I'll slip away and empty the safe. We'll disappear before anyone realizes what's happened."
Jay's eyes widened at her proposal, a mixture of shock and uncertainty clouding his features. "Lila, are you sure about this?" he asked, his voice tinged with hesitation.
Lila nodded, her determination unwavering. "I've thought it through," she insisted. "It's the only way to get what we want without any ties to Marinette."
Jay ran a hand through his hair, his mind racing with the implications of her plan. "I don't know, Lila," he said finally, his voice filled with uncertainty. "This is a big risk."
Lila took a step closer to him, her gaze pleading. "Jay, think about it," she urged. "If we go through with this, we can finally be together, without any obstacles standing in our way. We can start fresh, just you and me."
Jay hesitated, his eyes searching hers for any sign of doubt. But then, with a sigh, he nodded. "Okay," he said softly, a hint of resignation in his voice. "I'll think about it."
As they parted ways, Lila couldn't shake the feeling of anticipation that filled her chest. The day of the wedding would be their chance to escape, to leave behind the pain and betrayal of the past and forge a new future together. And as she left Jay's apartment, she couldn't help but feel a flicker of hope for the life they could build, if only they had the courage to seize it.
After Luka bids Marinette goodbye, she turns to her aunt Mei with a smile. "Shall we go pick up the wedding gifts for the guests, Aunt Mei?"
Mei nods, returning Marinette's smile. "Of course, dear. Let's go."
They make their way to the storage room where the wedding gifts are kept, chatting amiably along the way. As they enter the room, Marinette's eyes light up at the sight of the neatly wrapped packages arranged on the shelves.
"Aunt Mei, look at these!" Marinette exclaims, excitement bubbling in her voice. She picks up one of the packages and carefully unwraps it, revealing a set of beautifully crafted ladybug-themed bookmarks.
Mei's eyes widen in admiration as she examines the bookmarks. "Oh, Marinette, these are exquisite! What a lovely choice for the wedding guests."
Marinette nods eagerly, her heart swelling with pride. "I thought they would be perfect, especially with the ladybug theme tying into our wedding motif."
Just then, Tikki enters the room with a warm smile. "Marinette, Mei, how can I assist you?"
Marinette beams at Tikki, holding up one of the bookmarks for her to see. "Tikki, what do you think of these as the gifts for the wedding guests?"
Tikki's eyes light up with delight as she examines the bookmark. "Oh, Marinette, they're simply adorable! I'm sure the guests will love them."
Marinette's smile widens at Tikki's approval. "I'm so glad you like them, Tikki. Thank you for your help."
With Tikki's assistance, Marinette and Mei gather the rest of the gifts and prepare to head back to the main house. As they leave the storage room, Marinette can't help but feel a sense of excitement building within her. With each step closer to the wedding, she grows more eager to share her happiness with her loved ones, surrounded by the warmth and love that fills her heart.
As Marinette prepares to settle into bed, Aunt Mei enters her room with a somber expression on her face. Sensing Mei's solemn mood, Marinette looks up from her book, concerned, flickering in her eyes.
"Is everything alright, Aunt Mei?" Marinette asks, her voice laced with worry.
Mei sighs, taking a seat beside Marinette on the bed. "Marinette, there's something I need to discuss with you," she begins, her tone grave.
Marinette's heart skips a beat, a sense of unease settling over her. "What is it, Aunt Mei? You look troubled."
Mei hesitates for a moment before speaking, her words measured and careful. "Lila and I... I've decided that we will leave the mansion after you marry Jay."
Marinette's eyes widened in shock, her mind reeling at Mei's unexpected revelation. "Leave? But why, Aunt Mei? This is your home too."
Mei's gaze softens as she reaches out to grasp Marinette's hand. " i know, dear, but Lila and I think that it's time for us to move on. I want to give you and Jay the space to build your life together without any interference."
Marinette's heart sinks at Mei's words, a sense of loss washing over her. "But Aunt Mei, I don't want you to leave. You and Lila are my only family."
Mei's eyes glisten with emotion as she meets Marinette's gaze. "And you are like a daughter to me, Marinette. But I believe it's for the best."
Marinette's mind races with conflicting emotions, torn between her desire for Mei and Lila to stay and her understanding of their need for independence. But deep down, she knows where her heart truly lies.
"Aunt Mei, please," Marinette pleads, her voice choked with emotion. "Don't go. This mansion wouldn't be the same without you."
Mei's resolve wavers as she sees the pain in Marinette's eyes, her own heart aching at the thought of leaving her beloved niece behind. "Marinette, I... I didn't realize how much this would affect you," she admits, her voice softening.
Marinette's eyes brighten with hope as she squeezes Mei's hand. "Please, Aunt Mei. Stay. Family is the most important thing to me, and I can't bear the thought of losing you."
Mei's heart swells with love for Marinette, her resolve crumbling in the face of her niece's heartfelt plea. With a small smile, she nods. "Alright, Marinette. For you, I'll stay."
Tears of relief fill Marinette's eyes as she throws her arms around Mei, embracing her tightly. In that moment, surrounded by the warmth and love of her family, Marinette knows that no matter what challenges may lie ahead, they will face them together, united by the unbreakable bonds of love and kinship.
As the days pass, Jay finds himself growing increasingly fond of Marinette. Her kindness, generosity, and unwavering support touch his heart in ways he never expected. Despite his initial doubts and greed, he begins to see a future with her, one filled with love, trust, and companionship.
One evening, as he sits alone in his apartment, Jay realizes that he can no longer entertain the idea of running away with Lila on the day of their wedding. He knows he must be honest with Lila and put an end to their misguided plans.
Summoning his courage, Jay calls Lila and asks her to meet him at his apartment. Soom she arrives,
"Lila, we need to talk," Jay begins, his voice firm but gentle.
Lila's gaze flickers with uncertainty as she takes a seat opposite him. "What is it, Jay? What's wrong?"
Jay takes a deep breath, steeling himself for the difficult conversation ahead. "I've been doing a lot of thinking, and I've come to a decision," he says slowly, choosing his words carefully. "I can't go through with our plan to run away on the day of the wedding."
Lila's eyes widened in shock, disbelief etched across her features. "But Jay, why? I thought you loved me," she pleads, her voice trembling with emotion.
Jay shakes his head, his gaze unwavering. "I do care about you, Lila, but I've realized that my feelings for Marinette are genuine. I can't betray her trust or hurt her like that."
Tears spill from Lila's eyes as she struggles to process Jay's words. "But what about us, Jay? What about our future together?"
Jay reaches out, gently taking Lila's hand in his. "I'm sorry, Lila. I know this is difficult, but I can't ignore what's in my heart. I hope you can understand."
"But Jay, you can't mean that," Lila pleads, her voice cracking with emotion. "We were supposed to be together. You promised."
Jay's heart aches at the pain in Lila's voice, but he knows he can't go back on his decision. "I'm sorry, Lila. I know this is hard to hear, but my feelings for Marinette are real. I can't ignore them any longer."
Lila's desperation grows as she grasps at straws, her mind racing with thoughts of how to change Jay's mind. "What if we just... waited? Maybe things will change after the wedding. We can still be together."
Jay shakes his head, his resolve unwavering. "I can't, Lila. I need to be honest with myself and with Marinette. Running away would only hurt her more in the end."
Tears spill from Lila's eyes as she realizes the finality of Jay's decision. "But what about us, Jay? What about everything we've shared?"
Jay reaches out, gently wiping away Lila's tears. "I'll always cherish the memories we've made together, Lila. But it's time for both of us to move on."
Jay watches Lila leave his apartment, a heavy weight lifted from his shoulders. While he empathizes with her pain, he feels a sense of relief knowing he's made the right decision for himself and for Marinette. He trusts in the sincerity of his feelings for Marinette and knows that he can't continue to deceive himself or her any longer.
Turning his thoughts to Marinette, Jay feels a surge of excitement and anticipation for the days to come. He knows that their relationship is blossoming into something beautiful and genuine, and he can't wait to see where their journey together will lead.
Meanwhile, as the wedding draws nearer, Jay finds himself drawn to Marinette more than ever. He seeks out moments alone with her, cherishing their conversations and shared laughter. He surprises her with small gestures of affection, like leaving a bouquet of her favorite flowers on her doorstep or cooking her favorite meal for dinner.
Each moment spent with Marinette fills Jay with a sense of joy and fulfillment he's never known before. And as he looks into her eyes, he knows with certainty that he's found the love and happiness he's been searching for all along.
Two days before the wedding Marinette sits across from Mike in his office, a sense of determination radiating from her. She takes a deep breath, steeling herself for the conversation ahead.
"Mike, I've made a decision," Marinette begins, her voice steady. "I want to sell the mansion in LA that I inherited from my parents."
Mike nods, his expression thoughtful. "I understand, Marinette. Selling the property is a big decision. But before we proceed, I would suggest visiting the mansion first. It's been a while since you've been there, and seeing it in person may help you make a more informed choice."
Marinette considers Mike's suggestion, weighing the pros and cons in her mind. She knows that selling the mansion would be a significant step, and she wants to be sure she's making the right decision.
"You're right, Mike," Marinette says finally, determination shining in her eyes. "I think visiting the mansion would be a good idea. I want to see it for myself before I make any final decisions."
Mike nods in agreement, a reassuring smile on his face. "I'll make the necessary arrangements for the trip. We can leave whenever you want."
Marinette nods, feeling a sense of relief at having a plan in place. "That sounds perfect, Mike. Thank you for your guidance and support."
As Marinette leaves Mike's office, her mind is filled with anticipation for the journey ahead. She knows that visiting the mansion will bring up memories of her parents and her childhood, but she's ready to face whatever emotions may come. With Mike by her side, she feels confident that she'll be able to make the right choice for her future.
Later Marinette arrives at Jay's apartment, her mind buzzing with excitement and anticipation. She knows that she needs to share the news with him about her decision to sell the mansion in LA, and she can't wait to hear his thoughts on the matter.
Jay greets her with a warm smile as he opens the door, and Marinette can't help but feel a surge of affection for him as she steps inside.
"Hey, Marinette. What brings you here?" Jay asks, curiosity dancing in his eyes.
Marinette takes a deep breath, gathering her thoughts before speaking. "Jay, I have something important to tell you," she begins, her voice tinged with excitement. "I've decided to sell the mansion in LA that I inherited from my parents."
Jay's eyes widen in surprise, but he nods in understanding. "That's a big decision, Marinette. Are you sure it's what you want to do?"
Marinette nods, her determination unwavering. "Yes, I've thought it through, and I believe it's the right choice for me. But before I go through with it, Mike suggested that we visit the mansion first."
Jay's expression softens as he takes in Marinette's words. "I think that's a great idea, Marinette. It'll give us a chance to see the property together and make sure it's the right decision."
Marinette smiles, feeling a sense of relief at Jay's support. "I'm glad you agree, Jay. I was hoping you would come with me."
Jay reaches out, taking Marinette's hand in his. "Of course, Marinette. I'll be there every step of the way."
Their conversation takes a turn as they discuss the topic of Mei and Lila living with them. Marinette, eager to have her family close, suggests that they atay together after the wedding.
But Jay's discomfort is evident as he hesitates to agree. "Marinette, I don't think that's a good idea," he says finally, his voice strained. "I... I don't feel comfortable having them live with us."
Marinette's brow furrows in confusion, her heart sinking at Jay's words. "But Jay, they are family too. I can't imagine being separated from her and Aunt Mei," she insists, her voice pleading.
Jay struggles to find the right words, knowing that revealing the truth about his past affair with Lila would only cause further pain and damage their relationship irreparably. Instead, he decides to fabricate a different explanation, hoping to protect Marinette from the truth.
"Marinette, it's not what you think," Jay begins, his voice trembling slightly as he meets her gaze. "I just don't think it's a good idea for them to live with us for other reasons."
As Marinette stands before Jay, her heart torn between love and hurt, she struggles to comprehend the rift that has formed between them. Tears blur her vision as she tries to make sense of Jay's reluctance to have her family live with them.
"Jay, I thought we were a team," Marinette whispers, her voice cracking with emotion. "I trust you, but I can't understand why you wouldn't want my family with us."
Jay's heart aches at Marinette's words, knowing that his actions have caused her so much pain. He reaches out to her, his voice filled with remorse. "Marinette, it's not that I don't want your family with us. It's just... complicated."
But Marinette's trust has been shaken, and she can't ignore the hurt she feels. With a heavy heart, she takes a step back, her eyes filled with tears. "I can't do this, Jay," she says quietly, her voice barely above a whisper. "I can't marry someone who doesn't prioritize my family."
With those words, Marinette removes the engagement ring from her finger, her hand trembling as she holds it out to Jay. "I'm sorry," she says softly, her voice filled with sorrow.
Jay watches in silence as Marinette drops the ring to the ground, the sound of it hitting the floor echoing in the stillness of the room. He knows that he's lost her, and the realization fills him with a profound sense of regret and remorse.
As Marinette turns to leave, Jay is left standing alone in his apartment, his heart heavy with the weight of his mistakes. He knows that he's lost the love of his life, and the pain of that realization cuts deep.
With a heavy sigh, Jay sinks to the floor, his head in his hands as he grapples with the consequences of his actions. He knows that he'll carry the weight of his deception with him for the rest of his days, a constant reminder of the love he lost and the trust he betrayed.
Marinette's heart felt heavy as she stumbled into her room, tears streaming down her cheeks. With trembling hands, she locked the door behind her, desperate to shut out the world and the pain that threatened to consume her.
Leaning against the door, Marinette buried her face in her hands, the weight of her shattered dreams crushing her spirit. How could everything have fallen apart so quickly? Just moments ago, she had been filled with hope and excitement for her future with Jay, but now all she felt was emptiness and despair.
As Marinette's sobs echoed in the silence of her room, a gentle knock sounded at the door, followed by Mei's concerned voice. "Marinette, dear, is everything alright? Can I come in?"
Marinette's heart clenched at the sound of Mei's voice, but she couldn't bear to face her aunt in her current state. "I-I just need some time alone, Aunt Mei," she choked out, her voice thick with tears. "Please, just leave me be." Mei's concern deepened at Marinette's admission, but before she could respond, Marinette's voice cracked as she added, "I-I broke up with Jay. The wedding... it's canceled."
Mei's heart ached at the anguish in Marinette's voice, but she knew better than to push her niece for answers when she clearly needed space to process her emotions. With a heavy heart, Mei whispered softly through the door, "Alright, Marinette. I understand. Take all the time you need. I'll be in Lila's room if you change your mind."
As Mei walked away, her thoughts lingered on Marinette, her heart heavy with worry for her niece. But she respected Marinette's request for solitude, knowing that sometimes, the healing process required time and space to unfold. And as Mei entered Lila's room, she sent a silent prayer for Marinette's heart to find peace amidst the storm of emotions that raged within her.
Mei enters Lila's room, her expression solemn as she takes a seat beside her daughter. Lila looks up from her book, her eyes bright with curiosity.
"Mom, what's wrong?" Lila asks, concern etched in her features. "You look upset."
Mei hesitates for a moment, her thoughts lingering on Marinette and the heartache she's enduring. But she knows that Lila deserves to know the truth, no matter how difficult it may be.
"Lila, it's about Marinette," Mei begins, her voice soft but steady. "She just told me that... she broke up with Jay. The wedding... it's canceled."
Lila's eyes widened in shock, her heart skipping a beat at the news. But she quickly composes herself, masking her true emotions behind a facade of concern for her cousin.
"Oh, Mom, that's terrible," Lila says, her voice filled with sympathy, but a glimmer of satisfaction dances in her eyes, unnoticed by Mei. "How is Marinette holding up?"
Mei watches Lila closely, sensing something amiss in her daughter's reaction. But she brushes it off, attributing it to the shock of the news.
"She's... devastated, to say the least," Mei replies, her voice tinged with sadness. "She's in her room, asking for some time alone to process everything."
Lila nods sympathetically, her expression a picture of concern. "Poor Marinette. I can't imagine what she must be going through. Is there anything I can do to help?"
Mei's heart swells with gratitude for Lila's apparent concern, but she can't shake the feeling that something isn't quite right. Nevertheless, she pushes aside her doubts, focusing on the matter at hand.
"Thank you, Lila. Your support means a lot to her. Right now, I think she just needs some space to grieve."
Lila nods, her gaze sincere as she meets Mei's eyes. "Of course, Mom. Please let me know if there's anything I can do to help. Marinette's happiness means the world to me."
Mei offers Lila a small, grateful smile, but her suspicions linger beneath the surface. As she leaves Lila's room, she can't shake the feeling that her daughter's concern may be masking something more sinister.
As Mei leaves Lila's room, her mind still preoccupied with Marinette's heartbreak, the phone rings loudly, echoing through the quiet house. Lila's eyes flicker with recognition as she realizes it's the landline.
Quickly, she rushes to answer it before anyone else can pick up. With a sense of determination, she lifts the receiver to her ear.
"Hello?" Lila answers, her voice cool and composed.
On the other end of the line, Jay hesitates for a moment, surprised to hear Lila's voice. But he knows he needs to speak to Marinette, no matter who answers.
"Lila, it's Jay," he begins, his voice tinged with urgency. "Is Marinette there? I need to talk to her."
Lila's grip tightens on the phone as she listens to Jay's request, her mind racing with thoughts of her own agenda.
"Jay, what do you want?" Lila asks, her voice cold and calculating.
Jay takes a deep breath, knowing that he needs to tread carefully. "Lila, please, I need to speak to Marinette. It's important."
But Lila sees an opportunity to further her own interests, to keep Marinette away from Jay and kill two birds with one stone.
"I'm sorry, Jay, but Marinette is unavailable right now," Lila replies smoothly, a hint of satisfaction in her voice. "And after what you did to me, I'm not inclined to help you."
Jay's heart sinks at Lila's words, realizing that his actions have costed him Marinette's love
"Lila, please," Jay pleads, his voice filled with desperation. "I know I messed up, but I need to make things right with Marinette."
But Lila remains unmoved, her resolve unyielding. "I'm sorry, Jay, but Marinette deserves to feel hatred towards you. And I'll make sure she never takes you back."
With that, Lila hangs up the phone, cutting off Jay's pleas before he can utter another word. As she sets the receiver back in its cradle, a sense of triumph washes over her.