Lilah paused, torn. She'd made dinner plans with Gerard, but reuniting with Ruby after so long swayed her. Ultimately, she chose to reschedule with Gerard. They were neighbors, after all, and she could always confess her feelings later that night.

They opted for a restaurant near their old school.

“Back in the day, dining here felt Like an indulgence," Ruby mused, surveying the familiar setting. “Who would've thought I'd be in a position to treat you, worry-free."

"You've accomplished so much; it's truly inspiring," Lilah commended, her smile genuine. "I've caught your TV shows. You're a natural."

Ruby waved her off, chuckling. "Easy with the compliments, they might just inflate my ego."

Their conversation flowed effortlessly, punctuated by shared laughter.

Mid-meal, Lilah texted Gerard an apology, to which he simply encouraged her to enjoy her dinner.

His understanding response kindled a surge of warmth within her, solidifying her resolve.

She texted him, "Would you mind staying up a little Later tonight?

There's something I need to discuss with you."

Engrossed in work, Gerard was slightly taken aback by Lilah's message, a peculiar sensation stirring within him.

She seldom adopted such a serious tone.

Could it be...

"Mr. Harris?"

When Calvin entered the office and saw Gerard, he was quite surprised.

"You're still here?" he queried.

"What? You're not pleased to see me?" Gerard retorted, maintaining his composure.

“It's not Like that. I just assumed you had plans with Miss Phillips this evening," Calvin hurried to explain.

Noticing the crease in Gerard's brow, Calvin elaborated, "A friend of mine runs a couples’ restaurant, and Miss Phillips made a reservation for tonight. I presumed she'd be dining with you."

A couples’ restaurant?

Gerard mulled this over.

Given Lilah's earlier formal message, could it be that she had resolved to... be his girlfriend?

An unexpected flurry of excitement caused Gerard's heart to race, prompting him to command in a low tone, “Forward any remaining tasks to my email; I need to handle something urgent."

With that, he seized his car keys and departed.