Gerard nodded, accepting her explanation, and the conversation drifted into silence.

When they reached their hotel, it was already quite late.

Their suite included two bedrooms and a living area.

Jerrold was fast asleep in one room, leaving the other room's occupancy a bit of a quandary.

Lilah eyed the sofa, large and plush, yet still likely to be uncomfortable for Gerard's tall, robust frame.

"You should take the room. You won't sleep well on this sofa," she offered softly.

"No, you go," Gerard insisted without a moment's hesitation.

Lilah, feeling a bit defeated, was met with Gerard's deep, alluring eyes and a hint of a smile. “Unless you'd prefer we share the room?" he teased.

At that, Lilah quickly turned and retreated into the room.

As Lilah turned away, a soft chuckle echoed from behind, sending a warm flush to her ears in the silent night.

In the depth of the night, a chill woke Lilah. She found her blanket on the floor, leaving her exposed to the cold night air.

Her thoughts drifted to Gerard on the sofa. Overcome with concern, she rose and tiptoed into the living room. Under the moon's glow, she saw him, covered by a mere blanket.

Approaching, Lilah gently touched his cheek, its iciness startling her.

She shivered, thinking of his discomfort on the sofa. After a moment's hesitation, she whispered, “Gerard...”

In the dim light, his eyes fluttered open. His voice, deep and tinged with sleepiness, murmured, "Hmm?"

“It's too cold out here," Lilah urged gently. “You should sleep in the bed. You might catch a cold."

Gerard's eyes met hers, a clarity returning to them. Lilah inhaled deeply, her voice steady. "The night's cold is harsh, and the sofa isn't suitable. The bed's big enough; we can keep to our sides."

"You sure?" he asked.

"I am," she reassured, her concern for his well-being outweighing any hesitation.

Together, they moved back to the bedroom.

The bed was spacious enough to easily accommodate another person between them. Lying there, Lilah listened to the soft rhythm of Gerard's breathing from the other side. Despite the distance, a warmth spread through her, her ears tingling inexplicably.

Lilah shut her eyes, silently counting numbers in hopes of drifting off to sleep sooner.

It took some time, but eventually, sleep embraced her.

On the other side of the bed, however, Gerard lay awake the entire night.