William smiled softly, relieved that she was willing to give it a chance. "Of course, Lila. We can take it as slowly as you need. There's no rush."
Lila felt a sense of warmth and comfort from his words, and the tension in her shoulders eased slightly. "Thank you," she said quietly.
They stood there in a moment of shared understanding, the air around them calm yet charged with new possibilities. For the first time, Lila allowed herself to smile at William, and it was a gentle, almost shy smile.
William grinned back, sensing the shift in her. "So, about that date…" he said, his tone light, trying to ease the mood.
Lila giggled softly, her usual cold exterior melting just a little. "Yes, I'd like that."
William gave Lila a warm smile before turning to leave. "Then, I'll return in the evening. Be ready," he said, his tone playful but sincere. "I'll go find a good place for us."