"Alright."

The notion of Bexley taking care of Gerard felt like a dagger twisting in Lilah's chest, inflicting excruciating torment.

With a heavy heart, she left her room and embarked on her journey.

Usually composed behind the wheel, Lilah's thoughts of Gerard and Bexley stirred unease, causing her driving to falter momentarily before she steadied herself.

Arriving at the hotel, she stepped into the lobby.

The receptionist greeted her warmly, “What can I assist you with?"

“I'm here to find someone."

"Well..." Before the receptionist could utter another word, Lilah interjected, “I'm looking for my husband."

As she spoke, she retrieved a handful of bills from her purse, delicately placing them on the counter. Her voice softened as she added, "Would you kindly assist me?"

"Who is it you're searching for? Just so we're clear, I'm aiding you out of goodwill," the receptionist cautiously clarified.

"Understood."

Lilah disclosed the name, and after a brief search, the receptionist provided the details and handed her a key card.

Expressing gratitude, Lilah pressed the elevator button, ascending with the key card clutched in hand.

Yet, unease lingered. Upon reaching the floor where Gerard's room was, she hastened her steps, approaching the door with trepidation.

Upon opening it, scattered clothes and the acrid stench of alcohol assailed her senses, rendering her momentarily numb.

Venturing further, she spotted Gerard shrouded beneath a blanket in the bed.

At that precise moment, the gush of water from the bathroom ceased.

The door creaked open, revealing Bexley, enveloped in a voluminous bathrobe, her skin glistening from the recent shower.

Lilah's gaze locked with Bexley's.

Caught off guard, Bexley spoke first. "Lilah, what brings you here? Mr. Harris had a bit too much to drink; he vomited on me, hence the shower. Don't misinterpret this!"

As she spoke, she stooped to gather the soiled clothes. “My dress got dirty, and I was planning to clean up after my shower. Your prompt arrival caught me off guard.”

Indeed, her new dress bore the evidence of Gerard's mishap, necessitating immediate washing.

But her actions weren't for Lilah's benefit; they were solely for Gerard's sake.

Lilah remained silent, her attention drawn to the strewn clothes, a man's tie and a pristine white shirt among them.