A sense of unease gripped him at the thought of Lilah still stranded at the hotel.

Determined to return promptly, he picked up his pace.

Guided by the crowd, Gerard made his way to the hall. Rex bid him farewell with a smile. "Goodbye, Mr. Harris."

"Goodbye." With a quick nod, Gerard slipped into the waiting car.

Only when Gerard's car vanished from sight did Rex and the others breathe a sigh of relief.

Inside the car, Gerard couldn't shake off thoughts of Lilah.

It forced him to push the accelerator a little harder.

Seated in the back, Bexley took the first step to acknowledge her mistake. "I'm sorry, Mr. Harris. I didn't mean to inconvenience you."

"If you know you'll cause trouble, don't join me next time." Gerard's voice remained steady.

Bexley's expression darkened, her lips pressing together as tears threatened to spill.

Ignoring her, Gerard issued his next instruction. “Head back to the hotel, pack your things. I'll wait downstairs."

“Where are we headed?" Bexley looked confused. Weren't they here for a three-day inspection? Why the sudden departure?

“We're going back," Gerard said.

He stepped on the accelerator, propelling the car forward.

After a short while, he dropped Bexley off at the hotel before veering toward a different destination.

Aware that Lilah hadn't eaten, he made a few extra stops, returning with some nourishing food for her, a small act of kindness amid the turmoil.

As Gerard entered the room, his eyes fell upon Lilah, tucked in slumber, the blanket draped casually over her.

With cautious steps, he approached, placing the food delicately on the bedside table.

The soft rustle stirred Lilah from her sleep. She opened her eyes slowly, her gaze meeting Gerard's as she said in a weak voice, "You're back, Gerard."

"Lilah, how are you feeling today? Any better?" Gerard asked, noticing the lingering paleness on her face.

"A little. Why are you back so soon? I thought the inspection would take longer," Lilah asked.

“I adjusted our plans. I brought you some food. Once you've had it, we'll head home," Gerard explained, opening the food box and offering her the food.

“I'm not hungry," Lilah said. She had no appetite for food.

Scooping a spoonful, Gerard blew on it gently before urging, “Your stomach needs something. Just a few bites. Watch out; it's hot."