In the CEO's office of the Harris Group, Calvin popped in to check on Gerard's lunch. To his surprise, takeout already sat on Gerard's desk. A pang of guilt hit him. Had he been tardy, causing Gerard to order food himself?

Calvin was immediately wracked with guilt. “Mr. Harris, I apologize.

I wasn't aware you were hungry. I'll have your regular meal delivered immediately."

"There's no need, Calvin. I've already eaten," Gerard dismissed the concern.

“Mr. Harris, next time, please let me arrange your meals. Outside food can be unsanitary," Calvin insisted, his tone laced with worry.

Gerard's response was frigid. "Lilah ordered this. It's fine."

Calvin's expression shifted upon realizing the takeout was from Lilah, and he recognized the logo of a prestigious local hotel. He recovered quickly, offering praise, “Miss Phillips is indeed thoughtful and treats you well. That hotel has an excellent reputation for its high-quality, hygienic food."

To Calvin's surprise, a rare, subtle smile tugged at the corners of Gerard's mouth.

“She's very good to me," he acknowledged, the softness in his tone palpable.

Calvin, wondering if all men in love would act like this, quietly excused himself.

Shortly after, Gerard received a text from Lilah. "Did you enjoy the meal?"

He replied warmly, “It was delicious. But you don't have to feel guilty about what happened, Lilah."

Her response came quickly. "I'm sorry, I..."

Before she could continue, Gerard sent another message. “If you really feel sorry, why not consider being my girlfriend?"

In the quiet of her office, Lilah stared at the screen, her heart racing. Was he being serious?

Before she could respond, another message arrived. “Just teasing. I won't rush you, Lilah."

His patience seemed infinite.

A range of emotions swirled within Lilah.

Her thoughts were interrupted by a new message notification.

“Hello, Lilah!" It was Brenda.

Lilah's face lit up; she always enjoyed hearing from the energetic older woman.

"Hi! How are things with you?" Lilah responded.

"I'm fantastic! And I have a big event soon."

"Oh? What event?" Lilah inquired.