Chapter 8

The door to the medical room clicked shut behind them as Gabriel and Lilah stepped out together.

Relief still lingered in Lilah’s chest—she’d taken a total gamble by asking Nina to find Gabriel. It was a shot in the dark.

But, thank God, he’d shown up.

Just when she thought she’d return to her room alone, a calm and firm voice spoke up behind her.

“Have dinner with me tonight.”

Gabriel stood partly in shadow, tone more like a command than a request.

Lilah hesitated for half a second, pretending to be a little surprised before replying softly, “Okay.”

By evening, the warm golden light from the chandelier bathed the dining room in a peaceful glow.

Gabriel sat at the head of the table, the top button of his shirt undone, rare hints of ease in his posture.

Right beside him, a neatly set place—specifically prepared for Lilah.

Verity arrived with Aiden in tow. The sight of Lilah already at the table made her face fall fast. The s