Chapter 22

"What would most frighten Nathaniel if I admitted to lying during the competition?" Olivia asked.

Lily, seeing Olivia's puzzled expression, continued, "It's the witnesses and evidence against him. He removed the evidence, but the witness"

"Am I the witness?" Olivia pointed at herself. Realization dawned, and she exclaimed, "I can be the witness!"

Arms akimbo, she continued, "We can use this to expose him and show everyone what kind of person he really is!"

Lily smiled, shook her head slightly, and said, "No, you won't need to be a witness. I just need you to take a two-day vacation."

"A vacation?" Olivia questioned.

"Yes! Nathaniel doesn't want you to testify for me. It benefits him if you leave."

At this crucial moment, Olivia realized Nathaniel, meticulous even about minor details, wouldn't let her go if she resigned. Slacking off seemed a better option. However, she worried. "Lily, I should be by your side, especially now. Running away would make me seem selfish—like a soldier deserting in wartime."

Lily chuckled. "Silly girl, we're not at war. And I know what I'm doing. You wanted to leave with me, didn't you? Use this time to rest; you'll be busy soon."

Though Olivia still had doubts, she nodded, seeing the determination in Lily's eyes. They had worked together for years; Olivia trusted Lily's judgment. "Okay, I'll do as you say."

Leaving the lab, Lily hailed a cab. A black Maybach pulled up instead. A handsome face appeared at the window—Alexander. Lily was surprised. "Get in," he said.

Pursing her lips, Lily entered the car.

"Why are you here?" she asked, wondering how he knew her location.

"What? Am I unwelcome?" The car started moving as Alexander turned to her.

"Of course not!" Lily said, naturally taking his arm. "I just didn't expect you."

"Surprise?"

Lily chuckled. "Absolutely. Where are we going? I was planning to go to Rebirth; I haven't finished my job application."

Lily had only briefly spoken to Rebirth's manager last night and had even looked up their address online. She knew little about the company and wanted to discuss it with Alexander.

"We're not going today. Tomorrow?" Alexander said quietly. "Why not?" Lily asked, a thought forming. 'It's early. Does Alex have other plans?' Alexander remained silent, gesturing towards the rear of the car.

Lily saw several cars following them. 'Who are they? Nathaniel's men?'

"Then what should we…" Lily started to ask, but Alexander put his arm around her shoulder as the car accelerated.