Quickly, Effie clarified, “It's not for me; he hardly fusses over me."

Lilah's nonchalance left Effie pondering their dynamic. But food beckoned, and she dove in. Between bites, she ventured, “So, Lilah, any thoughts on my brother?"

"He's impressive," Lilah stated with a relaxed tone, “has looks and success to his name."

Effie, eyes lighting up, concurred, "That's precisely my sentiment.

When picturing an ideal partner, do you envision any specific qualities?"

Tilting her head in thought, Lilah expressed, “It boils down to connection. Compatibility and shared values are everything. Absent that spark, all the riches and looks in the world won't matter."

Effie read between the lines and thought Lilah meant that regardless of Gerard's assets or looks, he was not her type.

A twinge of regret struck Effie. Was her dream of a perfect addition to the family fading?

Post dinner, Effie tried persuading Lilah to prolong her stay, but to no avail.

Upon Lilah's departure, Effie dialed her brother. "Gerard, fill me in.

What's brewing between you and my sister-in-law?"

Gerard's voice was cold. “She's not your sister-in-law."

But Effie pressed on, “I've never seen you go out of your way for someone like this."

Familiar with Gerard's ways, she waited for a hint. He remained guarded, only advising, “Just leave her be."

“But.." Effie's words were cut short when Gerard hung up without warning.

"He's so exasperating! No wonder he's single," Effie fumed.

Unbeknownst to her, post-call, Gerard found solace by a vast window, letting his eyes absorb the vast cityscape for what seemed like hours.

Standing tall and poised, he resembled a piece of art; yet, his face was a mask, revealing nothing.

Across the city, he found the Starlight Mansion. Even from this distance, he could pinpoint Lilah's room. He watched as the dark room Lit up.

An interruption came in the form of Calvin's voice. "Mr. Harris, Miss Lynn is here."

Calvin discreetly sized up Gerard's demeanor, noting the chilly aura that surrounded him post-announcement.

Without missing a beat, Gerard instructed, "Show her in."

Moments later, the doors swung open, revealing a woman cradling an intricate food box.

Ruby donned a deep blue dress, its design accentuating her figure.