Chapter 1272

"What? No, he's not! Why are you asking about him?"

An awkward silence followed. Lily, realizing the implication, chuckled. "So sorry to interrupt! Carry on. Goodbye!"

She quickly hung up, sighing with relief. Although she'd only heard a grunt, a blush warmed her face. The bathwater had cooled. She showered quickly and emerged in a towel.

Gasping, she saw Alexander in the bedroom. "Surprised to see me here?" he asked, lowering something he held.

"Yes! I thought you were with Galen. You couldn't handle him, huh?" she teased, drying her hair.

Alexander tossed aside the object and pulled her into his arms. "How did you know I couldn't take it anymore?"

"I meant him! Cut that out, it tickles!" His warm breath tickled her neck as he nuzzled her. His arousal was evident, but remembering their recent intimacy, he worried about tiring her. He suppressed his desire, holding her close. "I'll be less busy next month, and spend more time with you then."

"It's okay. Your work's important. Besides, you keep me company plenty."

Lily needed to attend to her newly acquired agarwood. And though she'd withdrawn from the research institute, she sensed the matter wouldn't end easily. She believed a strong marriage balanced both careers and mutual support.

Alexander fell into thought. She's unlike other women. She doesn't need me constantly, or demand attention. I sometimes miss our newlywed days. She had been the pursuer then; perhaps rash, but he'd fallen deeply in love.

"Lily..." he murmured, his nose in her sweet-smelling hair.

"Yes?"

"Don't you ever get..." He wanted to ask about jealousy, but a tickle made him sneeze.

Puzzled, Lily asked, "Don't I ever get what?" Before he could answer, she gently held his head down. Alexander was bewildered.