Chapter 526
“Of course you’ll be by my side. Could it be that you want to run away?!” He chuckled. “You can’t run away even if you want to. Have you gotten lazy? I heard the Southbank soap’s progress is nearing its end. Is that right?”
Lily knew he wanted to change the subject but didn’t expose his intent. She played along. “How could there be a boss like you who demands his staff to continue working after hours? I’ll go on strike if you keep pressuring me!”
“You won’t. You still have to make essential oil for your grandfather.” Alexander smiled. “Southbank soap is a new venture. There should be more new projects if the results are promising. It’ll be easier for us to open up the Westwood market.”
He was a businessman with a long-term vision. Lily didn’t know much about business, but she knew perfume well. Therefore, she knew expanding to the international market wasn’t easy.
“This is like any ordinary soap. However, the ingredients used in Southbank soap are a little special and easily alter the smell. I’ve been trying to find a balance. It won’t be difficult to add other aromas once this balance is found.”
Lily, having researched it lately, spoke with authority. “I think I’ve found the balance and will soon be successful.”
“I know my wife is the best!” He cupped her cheek and planted a loud, smacking kiss on her forehead.
Lily blushed deeply at his declaration and gently pushed him away. “Stop flattering me! I’ll make the essential oil for my grandfather immediately after I settle this. There’s also Lisa’s request for an exclusive perfume. I’ve been swamped lately!”
“Before that…” Alexander scooped her into his arms. “You need a good rest!”
The red-brick front and red-tiled roof made this a conventional but welcoming home. Unlike its exterior, the inside was a mess. Empty wine bottles littered the floor. A person slept on the bed, staring at the ceiling with lifeless, dull eyes, a bottle in hand.
He kicked a rolling wine bottle. Glasses clinked loudly as they collided. The individual remained unresponsive. He tipped his head back and drank, but after two more gulps, the bottle was empty. He shook it; nothing came out. With disdain, he tossed it away. Crash! It shattered loudly.
Arianna frowned, walking through the mess. She stood before him. “How long do you intend to keep drinking?”
“Have you felt heartache?” He opened his eyes, glanced at her, and sneered. He picked up a nearby beer can, opened it, and gulped it down. “I’ve said it before. You can continue drinking as you like! It’s up to you to stay in this hell; it’s your choice. You can always look for me if you want to stand up again.”
Empty wine bottles and glass shards surrounded her. Arianna, in a black cashmere coat, looked extravagant and delicate, out of place.
“Look for you… what can you do? Can you help me save my company? Can you turn back time?” He wanted to rewind the clock, regretting many things. However, there were no second chances in this world.
“Of course…” Arianna paused. “Not!”