In the very next second, a motorcycle zipped by, narrowly avoiding a collision with them.

“Watch out."

From above, Gerard's soothing, melodic voice graced her ears. Lilah, now fully aware of the situation, felt a faint blush warm her cheeks.

She gracefully withdrew from Gerard's embrace, clutching Jerrold's hand tightly.

After a while of walking, Jerrold suddenly spoke up. ilah, are you feeling warm?"

Lilah, caught off guard, inquired, "Pardon?"

"Your face is all red," Jerrold observed, his expression laced with genuine worry.

Lilah's cheeks ignited even further. She offered an awkward cough and replied, “Perhaps it's because we've been walking for an extended period and I've grown slightly overheated."

"I'll procure a refreshing beverage for you," Gerard promptly volunteered, his perceptive eye spotting a nearby beverage establishment. He made his way there.

Lilah found herself momentarily at a loss for words.

Jerrold might not understand the reason for the blush on her face, but Gerard wasn't aware of it either? It appeared that this father and son duo were remarkably oblivious!

With a sense of resignation, she trailed behind Gerard. She overheard him placing an order with the store attendant, “We'll have the parent-child combo, please."

The parent-child combo entailed two cups of chilled drinks adorned with couples' motifs and a cup of milk, exuding a heartwarming charm.

Lilah contemplated offering a remark but opted for silence instead.

"Your beverages are now prepared," the store attendant announced.

Gerard collected the drinks and handed one to Lilah, while the milk found its way to Jerrold. The three of them retraced their steps along the street.

They ambled in a silence that required little verbal exchange, yet the atmosphere between them radiated an unexpected harmony.

The streetlights were dim, and a gentle breeze wafted through, fostering a tranquil ambiance.

Upon their arrival at Starlight Mansion, Jerrold lingered closely behind Lilah, as though desiring to accompany her to her abode.

"Please, don't bother her," Gerard stated firmly, hoisting Jerrold into his arms.

Jerrold's once-bright, expansive eyes dimmed, his visage now a tapestry of sorrow and unspoken accusations directed at Gerard.

Lilah couldn't resist tousling Jerrold's hair, her words brimming with affection. "I have a stack of work awaiting me and you've got school in the morning. Go to bed early, young man!"

Jerrold finally nodded in agreement, his eyes dancing with youthful exuberance, before he planted a kiss on Lilah's cheek.

Lilah found Jerrold's affection utterly endearing, returning his kiss with tenderness before gently releasing him from her embrace. “It's time to return now, my dear."