They approached the Ferris wheel. Gerard glanced over and extended his hand to her, asking, "Shall we?"

In the glow of the ambient light, he seemed straight out of a classic portrait, regal and timeless. Almost instinctively, Lilah placed her hand in his.

The Ferris wheel began its ascent. With every moment, the world below seemed more distant, and the city's glittering lights mirrored a ground-bound constellation. The cool breeze and mesmerizing vista lulled Lilah into a reverie.

But then, a sudden burst of fireworks snapped her back.

“Oh! Look at those," she whispered, a smile lighting up her face.

The corner of Gerard's mouth lifted ever so slightly when he saw her delight.

The sky danced with colors. Just when she thought the display had reached its climax, the brilliant pyrotechnics shone brighter.

Lilah had never witnessed fireworks so grand and enchanting.

But they weren't done. The bright blooms of light morphed, spelling out a message.

"Lilah, Happy Birthday."

Lilah's smile halted as the reality of those words sunk in. She turned, looking at the reserved man beside her. His demeanor was as unflappable as ever, those deep eyes steady under her scrutiny. But the understanding was instant.

This was his doing.

Her birthday...

Since that fateful day half a decade ago, she hadn't celebrated her special day. Truth be told, she'd completely overlooked the significance of today.

Tears threatened as memories and emotions stirred. It felt like the walls she'd built around her heart were crumbling.

"Is it to your liking?" Gerard's voice was smooth, like aged whiskey, warm and enticing.

Holding back her tears, Lilah simply nodded. She wanted to express her gratitude, but “thank you" seemed almost inadequate. Illuminated by the glow of the fireworks, Gerard's chiseled features seemed to take on a softer hue, and even his tone seemed gentler.

“Happy birthday, Lilah," he murmured.

Feeling her eyes well up, Lilah whispered back, "Thank you."

With a soft chuckle, he said, "Silly girl." His fingers, long and fair, brushed against her cheek. The roughness of his fingertips was unexpected but soothing.

She drew a breath to speak, but Gerard beat her to it. "You've faced so much. I can wait till you're ready to share."

So she just replied, "Okay."

While warmth wrapped around them, elsewhere, a cold chill pervaded.

Upon entering the office, an assistant instantly felt the heavy air.