Chapter 38. That Melody, That Song

The following morning arrived, swift and silent. Gerard woke up, making preparations that hinted at an important meeting in his schedule. Every aspect of his attire was carefully chosen, each detail meticulously attended to. After perfecting the knot of his tie, he made his way to Amelie's room, where he discovered the door slightly ajar.

Entering with the grace of a cat, Gerard found Amelie sleeping soundly. Her features bore an uncanny resemblance to Ivy, even in her slumber. The curve of her jaw, the way her hair gently fell over her face, all reminiscent of a painful past.

Originally, Gerard had intended to gently wake her, inform her of his impending meeting, and reassure her that he might return late. However, as he gazed upon Amelie, so eerily similar to Ivy, he was momentarily mesmerized. He couldn't help himself; he leaned closer and, in that quiet moment, gently kissed her forehead, an act laced with both affection and inner turmoil. Amelie stirred slightly but