"Understood, Gerard, Lilah," Effie replied, her tone matching the gravity of the situation. “I'm taking Jerrold back now. I'll see you in the morning."

“Take care on your way. See you tomorrow," Lilah said.

"Okay. I'm headed off now." Effie bid them farewell and exited the room.

After Effie's departure, Gerard and Lilah chatted briefly. Feeling tired, Lilah softly said, "Gerard, I'm feeling sleepy. I want to go to sleep now."

Gerard looked at her and gently assured with a nod, "Alright. Get some rest. Let me know if you need anything. I'm here for you."

His words enveloped her in comfort. Lilah smiled back and said, “Okay.

If you get tired, there's another bed for you to use."

“Alright. Time to sleep. Good night," Gerard whispered affectionately.

Lilah nodded, closed her eyes, and quickly drifted off to sleep.

Watching her sleep, Gerard's gaze was filled with tenderness.

Determinedly, he vowed to her that she would never face danger again.

The following morning, Effie showed up bright and early, bearing the soup she had prepared. She greeted Lilah with a hopeful smile, "Good morning, Lilah. Give this soup a try. I hope you enjoy it."

As she offered the soup, she also passed a spoon to Lilah.

Lilah accepted the spoon and sampled the soup, and her face instantly revealed her true feelings.

"How is it?" Effie eagerly awaited her feedback.

Lilah managed to swallow, and then turned to Effie with a polite smile. “It's really good. Thank you so much."

"Really?" Effie's face lit up with excitement.

Lilah, not wanting to hurt Effie's feelings, simply nodded in response.

Effie was overjoyed.

Gerard, noticing the shift in Lilah's demeanor, offered, “Lilah, can I have a taste?"

He suspected something was off.

Effie quickly objected, "This soup was specifically made for Lilah.

Gerard, why don't you ask Mom to prepare some for you instead?"

Lilah joined in, “Effie has outdone herself with this soup. I can't possibly share. Why don't you go for breakfast?"