Gerard chuckled. "Drive safely, Lilah."

"Understood!"

Life seemed so effortless when in love and sharing a home with such a serene man.

She hurriedly left the street and drove home.

On the way, her heart raced with anticipation, a spark of excitement coursing through her.

Upon returning home and opening the door, she spotted Gerard in an apron adding vegetables to a simmering pot.

“It's not quite done yet, but I can already smell it." Lilah's spirits lifted as she made her way toward the sofa, a smile gracing her face.

Glancing warmly at her, Gerard remarked, "Lilah, you've returned at the perfect moment. The meat is ready. Join me and savor it. I haven't added the shrimp yet."

"No hurry. It's lovely to be thought of." Lilah beamed with raised eyebrows.

As he observed her joyful expression, Gerard's voice took on a sincere tone. “Lilah, you look stunning when you smile."

With a soft laugh, Lilah approached him, enveloping him from behind and resting her head on his back.

Being cared for brought her joy and a sense of security.

“Gerard, meeting and falling in love with you has been the greatest joy of my life."

Sensing the sincerity in her words, Gerard responded softly, “Being with you and getting to know you brings me immense happiness. I'll always be by your side."

"I know." She rubbed her head against his back and held him tighter.

Allowing her to cling to him, Gerard turned slowly and headed toward the kitchen to retrieve other dishes.

Lilah closed her eyes, a smile playing on her lips, as she followed him.

As she trailed out of the kitchen behind him, her phone rang, and it was Effie calling.

As soon as the phone was connected, Effie said excitedly, “Lilah, where are you now? I have good news for you."

Lilah released Gerard and raised the phone to her ear. "Effie, what's the delightful news that has you so thrilled?" she inquired with genuine curiosity.

"This news calls for celebration! Where are you, Lilah? I'm on my way to you," Effie exclaimed eagerly.

"You sound so happy. Is it because Walter is returning?" Lilah guessed, providing her location.

Lilah assumed Walter's return was the only thing that could bring Effie such joy. Given the recent warming of Effie and Walter's relationship, Lilah figured it must be significant to Effie.

To Lilah's surprise, Effie responded, "No, if Walter were coming back, I wouldn't be calling you."