A fond smile played on her lips as she went to dial him. In her fatigue, she accidentally started a video call. When the screen lit up, it showcased a sprawling apartment, Gerard's unmistakable silhouette set against the city lights. He was casually dressed, shirt partly unbuttoned, showing off a chiseled chest and just a hint of well-defined abs.
Lilah blinked, taken aback by the unexpected view.
"Just got back?" Gerard's voice was a rich blend of warmth and curiosity.
Lost in the sight before her, Lilah was speechless.
Gerard's eyes held a teasing glint. Slowly, his fingers made their way to the last button of his shirt, revealing a sculpted torso that seemed straight out of an art gallery.
Lilah's breath caught in her throat. Every time she saw him, he looked as if he'd been carved by the gods.
“Want a closer look?" he teased, voice dripping with amusement.
Surprising herself, she whispered, "Can 1?"
And then, he did it. Gerard peeled off his shirt, baring his chiseled chest and arms. A voice inside her head whispered how she'd give anything to be right there, to feel the warmth of his skin.
"You can touch it, when you're here next," Gerard's voice rang out, deep and tempting, as if he could read every thought that flitted across her mind.
Trying to regain some semblance of composure, Lilah cleared her throat. “I'm not... I mean, I don't usually... 0h, forget it."
His laughter, warm and infectious, echoed through the line. "I know."
Caught in the spell of his laugh, she almost missed his next question. “How'd the dinner go?"
"Same old Fauwille crowd," she said. “Arrogant and always looking for a fight."
"Anyone mess with you?"
"No way! And if they try? I plan on changing their tune soon." Fire flashed in Lilah's eyes, illuminating her determination.
His tone softened, "I believe in you."
They chatted a bit more before Lilah glanced at the clock, realizing it was time for bed. As she ended the call, a thought struck her. If it was midnight here, it must be 3 AM in Hualand. Was Gerard waiting up all night for her?
Tucked under her quilt, her heart warmed at the thought.
The sun rose, signaling a new day. And right on cue, the chef arrived, filling the table with an array of breakfast delights.
Phoebe was expecting to join Lilah for a hotel buffet breakfast. So, it caught her off-guard to find a lavish spread in Lilah's room.
“Did you plan this, Miss Phillips?" Phoebe asked, looking impressed.
Lilah simply nodded.
When she took a bite, Phoebe's face brightened. "This tastes like Hualand's cuisine! You know, I was a bit worried about adjusting to the local food. I've heard stories about them preferring raw meat, which isn't quite my thing."