Chapter 39

"Why are you here?" Lily asked, though she was pleased to see Alexander.

Alexander glanced at Lily, thoughtfully lowered the air conditioner, took a shawl, and draped it around her. "Have you been in trouble?" He'd expected her to leave the building hours ago and almost checked on her himself.

Lily waved dismissively, but as she raised her hand, she winced and hissed. Alexander frowned, pulling her closer. "Are you hurt?" His expression and tone were grim. His anger was evident.

"N-No," Lily quickly explained. "I just haven't stretched in a while. My muscles are a little sore, that's all." Unsure if he believed her, she added, "Look, where am I injured?"

Alexander gently pinched her cheeks, lifting her chin to examine her face, neck, collarbone, and arms. Lily blushed. His thorough examination soothed her.

She'd been deeply hurt. She'd known Nathaniel for years, believing him gentle and kind, but he'd cheated on her, manipulated her, and even tried to force her into… Though she'd completely ended their five-year relationship, the pain lingered—anger, sadness, and disappointment.

Alexander's hand returned to her chin, his thumb gently rubbing her lips. "Promise me one thing."

"What?"

"Never put yourself in danger." Lily felt a chill on her wrist—a small, finely crafted silver watch. She rarely wore watches. "This watch has GPS and a one-touch dialing function. Wear it at all times."

Lily laughed, slightly stunned. "Are you trying to spy on me?" She knew, however, it meant she could always contact him. His thoughtfulness touched her.

Holding her hand, his other hand still on her chin, Alexander whispered, "It's not a spying tool. I just want to know where you are."

"Why are you being so nice to me?" Lily asked, looking into his eyes. Despite their limited time together, his kindness was evident.