The stage soon filled with participating couples. Among them, Lilah and Gerard stood out conspicuously.

"He's so dreamy!"

"I'm swooning!"

While women admired Gerard unabashedly, some men scoffed, whispering among themselves. “What's so special about him? Just wait and see how I shine."

The pair seemed to have garnered both admiration and rivalry even before the event commenced.

Lilah leaned in, her voice a soft murmur. "Mr. Harris, you certainly have a magnetic pull."

Perhaps it was the relaxed atmosphere after the meal that emboldened her to jest.

Meeting her gaze, Gerard's eyelids drooped slightly. "To me, it's only you who stands out.”

Deep within his dark, intense eyes, a flicker of warmth shimmered.

For a moment, Lilah was caught off guard, her heart skipping a beat.

Was this the aloof Gerard Harris, known for his emotional detachment, making a romantic advance?

Lilah hadn't anticipated the nature of the challenge they were about to face.

"For the first round, it's all about strength! Gentlemen, lift your partners. The last man standing will be the winner!" the host announced with excitement.

A murmur spread through the crowd. Some men confidently hoisted their partners into the air, while others hesitated, taking a moment to prepare themselves.

Lilah and Gerard shared an uncertain look, their hesitation drawing amused comments from onlookers. "Do you think he can lift her? Bet he can't even hold his own girlfriend!"

A steely resolve flashed in Gerard's eyes. In a calm yet commanding tone, he asked, "Shall I?"

Lilah, trying to lighten the moment, joked, "Why not give me a piggyback ride instead?"

But before she could register what was happening, she found herself effortlessly lifted off the ground. Encased in his strong arms, Lilah felt an overwhelming sense of security. Gerard, seemingly unaffected by the weight, stood tall and confident.

For a brief moment, the world around Lilah faded as she took in the reality of the situation.

The contrast between Gerard's strict decorum and Lilah's discomfort was palpable. She felt every inch of his controlled touch, which carefully avoided any direct skin contact.

However, Lilah found herself second-guessing her decision.

Had they inadvertently crossed a boundary?

“Should we... exit the competition?" she whispered hesitantly.

Gerard turned to her with a slightly furrowed brow. Seeing the confusion in his eyes, she stammered, "This just feels... Perhaps too close for comfort."