Chapter 1369

"What do you mean?" Olivia asked, a little curious. It was a yes-or-no question, after all.

"Instead of saying I'm helping her lose weight, it's more like trying to cure her illness," Lily explained. She picked up her teacup; an anti-scalding cover prevented burns, though the warmth felt pleasant against her face.

"Cure her illness?" Olivia questioned, puzzled. Then understanding dawned. "I get it. Obesity has other causes. Is it something to do with her endocrine system?"

Lily shook her head. "No." She fell silent, blowing on her tea, lost in thought. Olivia waited patiently, finding the situation unusual.

After a while, Lily spoke. "I haven't figured it out yet. It's just a guess. I need to investigate further."

"Oh," Olivia replied.

As Olivia reached for her tea, Lily set hers down and stood. "I have to go out for a while."

"Where are you going?" Olivia asked, startled, withdrawing her hand.

"I'm going to ask someone about a few things," Lily answered vaguely. "Don't wait for me. I don't think I'll be back. And don't stay here alone! Go home!"

Olivia, sensing Lily's urgency, managed a breathless, "Oh." Regaining her composure, she worriedly chased after Lily. "You shouldn't be driving! You're too upset! Do you hear me?!"

"I know. I'll take a cab!" Lily grabbed her coat and bag, pausing before turning back. "You should be careful too. Take a cab home. Don't overthink, okay?"

Olivia was speechless. Even now, Lily worried about her. Olivia nodded. "Don't worry, I'm fine! All right, all right. I'll call a cab, okay?"

"You have to!" Lily emphasized. She knew Olivia also worried about Edward, but kept her own concerns silent. The two women inevitably felt uneasy these past few days without word from them.

Lily took a cab to the suburbs. The long journey almost lulled her to sleep. Upon arrival, she found the old man enjoying dinner: a large pot of boiled pork slices, hot sauce, rice, and a delicious aroma filling the room.

He picked up a piece of meat, then dropped it in surprise at her appearance. "What are you doing here?" He stared at her, instinctively shielding his food. "You're not here for my food, are you?"

Lily could visit anytime without prior notice. She'd gone directly to his room, unannounced by the butler. He hadn't expected her visit; she'd become a frequent visitor lately, appearing more often than during their years of study. It was a welcome sight.