Throughout his life, Gerard had been intimate with only one unknown woman.

He harbored resentment toward that woman for seemingly abandoning her child. How could she leave her infant to face the harsh winter alone?

If the Harris family hadn't found him, Jerrold's fate might have been tragically different.

Yet, what if that woman was Lilah?

"He died right in front of me!" Lilah's anguished words interrupted Gerard's racing thoughts. She wept, her body wracked with sobs, and Gerard realized he might have been too quick to judge. Life was unpredictable, and such uncanny twists of fate seemed implausible.

"It's okay. Maybe he's watching over you, in another way. He wouldn't want to see you like this," Gerard whispered, trying to console her.

After some time, Lilah's tears subsided. She sipped the soothing hangover soup and then drifted off to sleep.

Though Gerard considered leaving, he couldn't bear the thought of her being alone in such a vulnerable state, so he stayed.

By morning, the sun's rays gently pierced the room, rousing Lilah from her slumber. As memories from the previous night remained hazy, she looked around, shocked to see the figure on the couch.

"You're awake?" Gerard's voice broke the silence. Having slept on the couch, he stirred, sensing her wakefulness. Their eyes locked.

Lilah blinked. "Why are you here?"

"I didn't want to leave you alone last night," Gerard admitted.

Lilah's eyes softened as she realized he had stayed the night to ensure her well-being.

Lilah was genuinely touched. “Thank you."

“You're welcome. I'll go whip up some breakfast," Gerard said, standing up and heading back to his apartment.

Lilah felt a bit guilty. He had stayed up the entire night watching over her, and now he was busy preparing breakfast. But when she tasted his culinary creation a few moments later, any lingering concerns evaporated. This man had some serious cooking skills!

“ihat's this?"

A neatly packed lunchbox sat before her, taking Lilah by surprise.

"It's your lunch. Relying on takeout everyday isn't great for your health. You can warm this up in the microwave at the company,"

Gerard explained.

Lilah studied Gerard's stoic yet caring expression and felt a warmth she hadn't felt in a long time.

"You really didn't have to do this," she whispered.

"It's not a big deal. Don't feel obligated," he replied.

“Thanks.”