Chapter 23

Alexander’s car sped down the road, quickly outdistancing the vehicles behind them.

“Nate must have sent people to follow me,” Lily said, turning to Alexander. “Probably to see if I’m still in contact with Rebirth.”

“Huh?” Alexander raised an eyebrow. “Did you promise him you wouldn’t return to Rebirth?”

“I didn’t promise him anything, but he probably thinks he convinced me,” Lily clarified. She hadn’t promised Nathaniel anything, but he believed his lies had fooled her again. He remained the same, assuming his familiarity with the old Lily, who had readily trusted him.

However, Lily had witnessed Nathaniel’s betrayal and affair firsthand. She’d seen his illicit relationship with Melanie, shattering her trust. How could she ever believe anything he said again?

“So, what’s your plan now?” Alexander asked.

He was intensely curious about her response, eager to see how she would make them pay. Frankly, that Hall—a scoundrel—had hurt Lily deeply, and Alexander had planned to seek justice for her. But it seemed his wife didn't entirely need his protection; she had her own methods.

Lily looked calmly ahead. “He wants to hold a press conference and make me the scapegoat for what happened during the competition.”

“Oh?” Alexander’s voice was calm, his eyes cold. “What time is the press conference?”

“He didn’t say, but I guess it’s tomorrow or tonight.”

“Why?”

“Because he’s desperate,” Lily explained, turning to Alexander. “Last night’s event thoroughly discredited him and ruined MN Inc.’s reputation. He can’t wait any longer. What’s more, the organizing committee is investigating. We need to resolve this quickly.”

“Are you going to comply with Nathaniel’s wishes?” Alexander asked, though he doubted Lily would be so obedient.

“Unless I’m out of my mind,” Lily retorted, “What was once mine will be mine again.”

In Alexander’s eyes, Lily’s face was as tranquil as he remembered. Her beauty was different; it wasn’t a fleeting first impression, but something deeper, making her even more irresistible. He tucked a strand of her hair behind her ear, saying affectionately, “Turn to me whenever you need me.”

Those simple words warmed Lily’s heart. During her years with Nathaniel, she’d always been independent. He’d been too busy with his business and socializing, never having time for dinner, movies, or even just listening. She only felt his warmth for a few days around new product launches; otherwise, she felt inferior to MN Inc.’s employees. If she complained, he’d demand she be more generous and reasonable, less irritable. Over time, she’d grown accustomed to it.

Hearing Alexander’s words now, she welled up. Instinctively, she leaned on his shoulder, whispering, “I will.” Alexander was startled by her initiative. Her whispered words brought a smile to his lips.

“Where are we going now?” Lily asked softly, surprisingly calm in his arms.

“To dinner,” he replied. “You haven’t eaten yet, have you?”

“How did you know?” Lily exclaimed, astonished. It was as if he had a monitor on her.