“I'm okay on my own," Lilah assured him softly, feeling his supportive presence.

"Just let me know if you need anything else," Gerard said before stepping back, his concern evident in his eyes.

She nodded and hobbled to the bathroom.

"These days always feel like the worst,"

Lilah grumbled to herself, wearing the sanitary pad. With a gentle rub to her abdomen, she emerged from the bathroom.

Seeing her return, Gerard moved to her side, offering his steady support until she reached the bed, his relief palpable.

Lilah said, "Gerard, I don't think I can make it to the branch company with you tomorrow."

"Don't worry about that. Just focus on getting better. Your health is all that matters to me," Gerard said reassuringly, his words warm with concern.

Lilah couldn't help but feel a pang of guilt for inconveniencing him.

“Alright, I'll wait for you here at the hotel." Lilah conceded, her guilt lingering, knowing there was nothing she could do.

Gerard nodded, gently draping the blanket over her.

“If you still feel the bellyache, rest up, or perhaps another cup of warm milk?"

"I'll take another cup, please," Lilah responded, a soft smile gracing her lips.

Preparing the drink, Gerard handed it to her with caution.

"Sip it slowly. It's hot," he reminded her.

“Okay.”

The next morning, when Lilah woke up, she saw Gerard ready to leave.

He said, "I'll head to the office. What do you fancy for lunch? I can pick something up on my way back."

“I don't feel like anything in particular. Just surprise me," Lilah replied, her smile genuine.

During this time, her appetite was nearly dead, the urge to move escaping her entirely as she sunk deeper into the bed.

“Alright, I'm off." With a lingering glance at Lilah, Gerard reluctantly left the room.

As he stepped out, his phone buzzed with a call from Bexley.

"Mr. Harris, where should I meet you? I'm downstairs," Bexley said gently.