"You made all this?" Lilah's voice held astonishment.

"I cooked dinner around 8:00. Just reheated it a moment ago," Gerard said.

"Wow, you're a gem," Lilah remarked. As she tasted the pork, her spirits lifted. The joy of having someone cook for her after a draining day was evident on her face.

“You should eat more. Tough days at work?" Gerard inquired, serving her another helping and refilling her soup bowl. “By the way, I didn't let Jerrold touch the soup."

Lilah had to stifle a chuckle. Did Jerrold realize how sly his dad could be?

"Hom!"

A cheery voice rang out as Jerrold bounded over to Lilah, wrapping his tiny arms around her legs.

His eyes shot daggers at Gerard, who shifted awkwardly under his son's scrutiny.

“Thought you were asleep, Jerrold?" Lilah asked.

“I woke up when I heard you, the boy replied, eyes twinkling with mischief.

As Lilah reached to lift Jerrold, he settled into a chair beside her.

“Mom, dig in."

She was smitten. How did she end up with such an intuitive Little boy?

"You sure you're not hungry, Jerrold?" she inquired.

Patting his stomach, Jerrold grinned. “All full tonight. Dad said if I ate more, I'd turn into a chubby pig Lilah laughed. "You're the cutest. Want some soup, perhaps?"

"Thanks, Mom, but I'll pass," he responded, batting his eyelashes at her. “You should eat up."

"Alright, I'll have more."

Gerard's usually stoic expression melted into warmth as he looked at the pair.

By the time Lilah finished her meal, the clock showed eleven. Jerrold, fighting off sleep, swayed in his chair. Lilah scooped him up and gently settled him into bed, singing softly until he drifted off.

Emerging from the room, Lilah found the dining table and kitchen already tidied up. Gerard emerged, drying his hands on a towel.

"You cook and clean, Gerard? Your family must be thrilled," Lilah quipped, flashing him a grin.

"As long as the woman I care about realizes it and feels happy," he responded, locking eyes with her. Sliding an arm around her, he drew her close. Their proximity was electric.

“So, reached a decision yet?"

She blinked. "About?"