Chapter 1204

Life is a journey with no return. I used to be obsessed with my career, but I later realized many other things are equally, if not more, important. I’ve focused on chasing my goals and moving forward, but I’ve forgotten to slow down and smell the roses. Sometimes, slowing down and experiencing life’s beauty might even advance my career.

When Lily slowed down, she felt anxious and restless. Later, her focus shifted to her child as her belly grew, and her indifference lessened. Prenatal education and conversations with other mothers introduced her to the unique scent of a baby, and the smell of sweat on mothers who neglected themselves while caring for their children. This inspired her to create a perfume for pregnant mothers, allowing them to feel good and smell great. Of course, this would have to wait until after labor, but the idea ignited her.

Heather didn’t fully understand, but Lily’s smile puzzled her. It made Heather realize how long it had been since she’d smiled genuinely, or even looked at herself properly. Seeing Hannah, Heather felt she was looking at a reflection of herself, a reflection she'd grown weary of. In a daze, she forced a smile.

"Ms. Riggs, you didn't invite me just to hear about my pregnancy, did you?" Lily asked, snapping Heather from her trance.

Startled, Heather coughed. "I invited you to discuss a deal."

"A deal?" Lily was perplexed. "Besides fragrance creation and a small lab, I don't have much capital for a deal, Ms. Riggs."

"You do," Heather stated, getting straight to the point. "You and Alexander know what I want. I've confirmed my 'secret handbook' is fake, haven't I?"

"The secret handbook?" Lily was surprised.

Smiling, she admitted, "You're right."

Heather breathed a sigh of relief, hearing the expected answer. She'd been agonizing over it, rereading the book repeatedly. Initially, Heather's anxiety drove her to master kickboxing quickly. Now, her poor health allowed her time for slow study, revealing inconsistencies.

Other kickboxing books detailed moves and practice, unlike this book, which described everything vaguely. However, this book offered profound insights into a kickboxer's mindset and true understanding of the techniques, explained in detail and even incorporating biblical phrases. Recalling Alexander's words, she was convinced the "secret handbook" was flawed.