Lillie watched the man lying in bed, her gaze intense.

"Gerard, if I had met you first, you would already be my boyfriend, not Lilah's, " she mumbled after a long silence, unable to stop herself.

She knew Gerard was the pinnacle of her romantic aspirations, and wondered if she would regret letting go.

If only she could kiss him, hold him gently, she would have memories to cherish for a lifetime.

Her heart raced as she slowly stood up, moving closer to the bed.

Gerard's striking features were irresistible to any woman who approached.

Lillie was no exception.

Her heart raced as she neared his tempting visage, growing more flustered with every step.

Just as she was about to lean in, he suddenly opened his eyes.

Their gazes locked, and Lillie saw her reflection in his pupils.

Instinctively, she wanted to retreat but forced herself to stay still.

In this state, Gerard had lost his rationality, his thoughts filled only with her. He would surely welcome her kiss.

Even if Lilah and the others found out, what could they say?

"Gerard, how are you feeling?" Lillie asked softly, confident in her gentle tone, certain no man could resist.

Gerard continued to watch her, his gaze becoming intense.

He suddenly sat up, pinning her beneath him, his presence was all-encompassing.

Lillie's heart pounded like a drum. Was this going further?

Would her mother blame her?

No, she wouldn't. Whatever happened would be Gerard's fault.

She was merely a passive participant, even claiming she was forced.

People would sympathize with her, not blame her.

But the next second, Gerard's hands were around her neck, squeezing with alarming strength, threatening to cut off her air.

Lillie was utterly shocked, her body going numb as she struggled desperately to break free, but his grip only tightened.

"You're not her, you're not..."