Gerard remained impassive, though his focus rested on Lilah. He sensed she required Roger's cooperation, but his assault had probably marred their ability to collaborate harmoniously.

How would she decide?

As Lilah remained silent, Roger taunted her, saying, "What's bothering you? Having doubts? A toy boy's role is to excel in bed; giving people attitude isn't his job. If you're unsure, I can help you teach him a lesson... Ah!"

Before he could complete his sentence, Lilah threw a glass of wine in his face, turning Roger into an instant mess. Enraged, he glared at Lilah. "Have you lost your mind? Don't you want to cooperate?"

“Truly, a shopping center overseen by someone Like you doesn't appear very appealing!" Lilah sneered, glanced at Gerard, and then led him away from the restaurant.

Roger cursed and grumbled angrily behind them.

When they stepped outside, the cool breeze brushed against them, instantly refreshing their minds. Lilah breathed a sigh of relief, and then shifted her gaze to Gerard. To her surprise, she noticed the man who typically carried a cold demeanor now wore an unusually tender expression, and his profound, almost bottomless eyes carried a subtle hint of a faint smile.

What had Gerard grinning?

Lilah found herself puzzled but managed to say, "Thanks for today."

"You're welcome; I should be the one apologizing for botching your deal," Gerard replied in a hushed, faintly amused voice.

He'd expected Lilah to be furious, but when that guy insulted him, she shot right back without missing a beat.

Did it imply that she had feelings for him?

“I don't blame you; that guy is a total scumbag. Working with people like him never turns out well," Lilah remarked dismissively. She gazed at Gerard and added with a touch of guilt, “It's my fault that you got insulted."

"No worries," Gerard's voice rumbled, carrying a trace of warmth.

Seeing her stumble a bit while walking, he swiftly reached for her arm, his tone filled with concern. “Are you alright?"

"I'm fine."

"Let me drive you home."

Gerard offered to drive her. His demeanor remained gentlemanly, yet his tone was undeniably authoritative as he guided her to his car without seeking her consent.

He then strolled over to the driver's seat, gently swinging open the door. Calvin gazed up at him, murmuring, "Mr. Harris..."

"Get out," Gerard urged.

Calvin promptly stepped out of the vehicle, and Gerard smoothly slid into the driver's seat, closing the car door behind him.

As a seasoned assistant to a CEO, Calvin understood that it was time to head home.

Inside the car, Lilah began to feel the effects of the alcohol creeping in. She was slightly disoriented, her weight leaning against the seat, unmoving. She sensed the familiar woody scent of Gerard, albeit faint.

She watched as he secured her seatbelt. His remarkably handsome face was right there, even more striking when viewed up close.