This dinner promised to leave a bitter aftertaste in their mouths.

Meanwhile, Lilah and her companions reveled in merriment.

Their merrymaking had left them inebriated. As the night drew to a close, Lilah took it upon herself to help everyone secure taxis. In the final moments, as she considered arranging a designated driver for her own vehicle, her eyes fell upon a familiar Rolls-Royce.

"Gerard?" Lilah exclaimed in astonishment.

The car window descended to reveal that exquisite and familiar countenance. With a grin, Gerard spoke in a seductive, mellifluous tone. “Feeling a bit weary, are we? Join me. We'll head back together. Calvin here will drive your car."

Calvin had already alighted from the car, anticipating the situation.

"Miss Phillips, please, get in."

"Very well, thank you, Calvin," Lilah responded with a radiant smile, taking her place in the front passenger seat.

As they navigated through the night, Lilah's initial grogginess began to dissipate. Her gaze settled on Gerard, whose profile appeared even more enigmatic and debonair in the subdued lighting, accentuating his extraordinary handsomeness.

"I couldn't help but notice your handsomeness. Have you truly never been in a relationship before?" Lilah inquired with an undertone of curiosity.

"I've been diligently occupied," Gerard replied with unwavering candor.

"Has no woman ever confessed her love for you?" Lilah inquired.

Gerard pondered briefly before responding, "Not that I've noticed."

Lilah couldn't suppress a light-hearted chuckle. His unreserved honesty impressed her considerably. To her, it was a welcome quality.

"So, am I truly your first love, then?"

“Indeed," Gerard affirmed, gazing at her with deep, enigmatic eyes that harbored a subtle, affluent tenderness.

Lilah couldn't help but smile, yet her thoughts were tinged with concern as she confessed, "You've assisted me so greatly and I'm at a loss about how to repay your kindness."

Suddenly, Gerard gently clasped her delicate hand. His voice, carried by the breeze, murmured, “It's truly quite simple."

"Hmm?" Lilah's head tilted to one side, puzzlement written across her face.

Just then, Gerard brought the car to an abrupt stop at the side of the road. She turned to him, a question in her eyes. That was when she noticed he was leaning in. His breath was a warm whisper against her ear. "This should do it," he murmured.

Her eyes went wide as saucers, and all at once, she was awash in the warmth of his kiss.

The wind played a symphony around them, sending a shiver through her.

However, the hand Gerard placed on her waist was Like a brand.

The heat from his kiss diffused through her, slow and steady.