“Wow, you've got quite the imagination," she shot back. “For the record, even if you were the last guy around, I'd opt for solitude.

Had I known you were here, this residential complex would've been my last pick."

Iker chuckled, his confidence unshaken. "Oh, Lilah. You're not even allowed entry. You sure about Living here? Have you checked the price tags on these houses? Let's not play games. Come out. Let's sort this."

She sighed and promptly sent her details to the property management.

ALL the while, she acted as if Iker wasn't even there.

His patience waned. This wasn't the reaction he expected. He tried to reach for her, aiming to coax her out, but she swatted his hand away.

“Hands off!"

His eyes flashed with anger. "So you're still keeping up this act?

Thought you could fool me? Play your cards right, and maybe..."

Before he could finish his words, the security barrier lifted, and Lilah sped away without a second glance.

The guard, trying to dispel the tension, chimed in, "Actually, Mr. Lewis, she does live here."

Iker's expression said it all. He looked as if he'd been dunked in cold water. Before he could regain his composure, another car honked its impatience. He climbed back into his vehicle and made his way past the gate.

Iker found himself puzzling over how Lilah managed a spot in the upscale Starlight Mansion. Surely it wasn't in the budget for regular employees.

Had she snagged a sugar daddy?

The notion gnawed at him. During their time, Lilah had been reserved.

But now? Was she compromising herself just for luxury?

These unsettling thoughts consumed Iker. But Lilah was oblivious to his internal turmoil. After her long day, she headed home, took a shower, and was soon wrapped up in the embrace of sleep.

The following morning marked the weekend and Jerrold's spring outing.

When she woke up, Lilah was greeted by a message from Gerard. “I got you and Jerrold some clothes for the outing. Want a peek?"

Curious, she moved to Gerard's apartment and knocked. The sight inside caught her off guard.

Rows of outfits were meticulously organized, each distinct and eye-catching.

“Why so many?" she inquired, a touch of amusement in her voice.

Gerard shrugged. "Couldn't pin down your taste, so I grabbed a variety."

From the abundant choices, Lilah settled on a coordinated blue ensemble. Father and son would sport blue suits while she'd don a chic blue dress.