Upon hearing the good news, Gerard set aside his pen and proposed, "Check with Jerrold on his lunch preference. I'll reserve a spot to celebrate our son's achievement."

"Sure." Turning to Jerrold, Lilah asked, "What would you like for lunch, Jerrold?"

“I'd like hamburgers, Mommy," Jerrold responded.

“Got it." Lilah then spoke into her Bluetooth earpiece. “Jerrold has chosen hamburgers."

“I'll make the reservation right away."

After ending the call with Gerard, Lilah headed downtown.

As they neared the city center, the skies grew darker, and raindrops began to hit the windshield.

The rain started to pour.

Lilah tightened her grip on the steering wheel, decelerated, and continued toward the city center.

At noon, the storm intensified with lightning and thunder, while the rain grew heavier.

She received a text from Gerard, saying, “Lilah, have you reached downtown? The reservation is set. I'll text you the details."

She replied, "Received."

Soon, she arrived.

Entering the restaurant, she followed Gerard's directions to their private room.

As she reached the door, she pushed it open and stepped inside.

Glancing at her, Gerard whispered, “Lilah, Jerrold, take a seat."

Lilah guided Jerrold to their table, saying, "Take a seat and let me know what you'd like."

"I'd like to have..."

After Jerrold made his choices, Lilah marked them on the menu. When the server approached, she handed over the menu.

As they awaited their meal, Lilah had a sudden thought and asked, “Gerard, how is your business trip shaping up?"

“I'll have a meeting with the people from the Morris Group this afternoon. If all goes well, we might visit the project site tomorrow."

“Alright. Let me know if you're heading there tomorrow so I can prepare your things," Lilah offered kindly.

Gerard smiled. "Okay."

Before long, the dishes arrived. Lilah smiled at her talented son and said, "Jerrold, you did great. So, consider this lunch a treat from your dad and a celebration just for you."