Iker stood by the desk, his aura dark and intense, eyes glued to the fireworks outside.

The assistant, hesitating, began, "Sir..."

“Leave! came the sharp reply from Iker.

Without a second's delay, the assistant retreated.

In his mind's eye, Iker saw a radiant woman's face. But it was soon overshadowed by the memory of a confident man's visage.

He could clearly visualize the pair, together, kissing.

And with today being Lilah's birthday and those fireworks in the sky?

A mere happenstance? Iker tried, and failed, to convince himself otherwise. The idea of Lilah and Gerard together was like a dagger in his chest.

The woman who once gazed into his eyes filled with love...

The very same one who'd whisper words of solace when he was down...

Then came a loud crash.

The force of Iker's fist met the window.

As shadows lengthened and the moon shyly retreated, Lilah was back home. That night, she enjoyed the deepest sleep she'd had in years, with dreams dancing with brilliant fireworks.

Yet, in the midst of this restful slumber, a doorbell disturbed her.

Checking the time, it was past eight in the morning. Her first thought was Gerard coming to invite her for breakfast. She quickly went to answer but stopped cold at the sight before her.

With reflexes on high alert, she moved to shut the door. But the man was ready, gripping the doorframe and pushing his way in. Once inside, he closed the door with a solid thud.

"Iker, do you realize it's a crime to force your way into someone's home?" Lilah's voice was laced with fury.

His gaze roamed over her face, taking in every detail. “Is it true?

Are you with Gerard now?"

It struck him just how radiant she looked. Even fresh from sleep and without makeup, her beauty was unmatched. Adaline seemed to fade beside her.

“The choices I make are no concern of yours, Lilah snapped. “Leave now, or I'm calling the police!"

The disdain in her eyes was a slap to Iker. Her lips, plush and inviting, distracted him. Overwhelmed by an impulse, he seized her chin, attempting to draw her into a kiss.

Thud!

But before their lips could meet, Lilah's foot connected sharply with Iker, sending him sprawling against the door.