"I'm sorry, I can't stay. I need to leave—" Lilah stammered.

"No, mo, mo. You're already here. Besides, you wouldn't want to disappoint the waiter," Briseis insisted, her grip tightening as she practically dragged Lilah further inside. "Why the worry? We'll enjoy the hot spring. I'm sure your boyfriend won't mind."

True to her words, a spring awaited them inside the room.

The waiter lingered at the doorway, handing them bathrobes. "I'll be in the lounge if you need anything," he informed them before stepping back.

Lilah was delighted by the attentive service of the young man.

"You've been too tense lately. You should visit this hot spring more often," Briseis suggested. She disrobed and stepped into the warm waters.

The humid air wrapped around Lilah, carrying with it the scent of roses.

Touched by the serene atmosphere, Lilah removed her clothes and joined Briseis in the spring.

They soaked for nearly 40 minutes before exiting to sip some fruit wine.

The relaxation washed over Lilah, easing her tensions.

Yet, the wine soon made her head spin.

"Don't worry, it's not potent. You can handle your alcohol," Briseis assured her, smiling.

But the smile on Briseis' face had a mischievous edge to it.

Lilah had faith in her friend. After tossing back a few more drinks, she started feeling a bit tipsy.

"Okay, that's enough. Cut it out," Briseis said, grabbing Lilah's glass and giving a firm clap.

Feeling woozy, Lilah slumped against the sofa. Out of the corner of her eye, she spotted seven or eight good-looking men entering the room, each with their own unique charm.

Some were young and cheerful; others sported strong tans. A few wore glasses, giving off an educated vibe, while others seemed more mature.

“Guys, make sure Lilah has a good time," Briseis hollered, sounding like the boss of a brothel.

Still feeling out of it, Lilah didn't notice the variety among the waitstaff. Then a man spoke to her gently. When she glanced up, she saw Gerard, sporting glasses, gazing at her.

"Here you are. I'm not that drunk. Let's go," Lilah insisted.

Seeing her stance, the bespectacled man replied, “But you just got here. Why the rush? Don't you want to stick around?"

Taken aback, Lilah figured if he wanted to stay, she could too.

“Lilah, are you okay?"

Suddenly, another Gerard approached, holding a glass of juice and giving her a worried look.