Chapter 588

"Looks like I'm not too late," Alexander said, relieved to confirm Lily's safety with his own eyes, though he knew she could protect herself. The recent kidnapping at Westwood had left him on edge; caution was warranted.

"Is there a problem?" Lily asked, sensing his unspoken concern.

"Let's change locations before we continue," Alexander replied, pulling her toward a nearby large tree concealing a black Mercedes-Benz. The darkness and the tree's shade provided excellent cover.

Lily entered the car, feeling instantly warmer. She breathed on her hands to generate heat, then felt his palms envelop hers, warming them with his own.

"It's so late. Where have you been?" he asked, his tone tinged with reprimand.

"I went treasure hunting!" Lily exclaimed, laughing at the memory of her discovery. Her heartfelt joy was evident, even in her eyes.

"How can you still laugh?" Alexander questioned, but seeing her happy face, he couldn't maintain his reprimand. He, too, was at fault. He hadn't anticipated someone would boldly impersonate the Perfumers' Society, even going so far as to forge an invitation.

Lily looked at him, his silhouette hazy in the streetlamp's glow. This added a mysterious air, emphasizing the concern underlying his words. How could she miss it?

"I found something wonderful today. And I saw you again. Today's a good day. Everything's been good. Why can't I laugh?" She considered it and decided today truly was lucky.

"Would you still be so happy if you hadn't climbed the wall?" he asked. He wasn't sure whether to admire her optimism or scold her for it.

"Wait, how did you know I climbed the wall?" She was astonished. He couldn't have seen her; she'd been careful. And why the delay in appearing?

"This courtyard uses the latest password and fingerprint locks. Difficult to crack alone, leaving climbing the wall as the easiest—and most effective—exit."

Lily's success proved him right. "Five meters high is quite a feat! You overestimate my abilities!" she exclaimed playfully. His matter-of-fact tone downplayed her achievement.

She had tested it first, utilizing trees and less smooth sections of the wall, and had succeeded after several attempts thanks to her skills and kickboxing training. Alexander affectionately scratched her nose. "Difficult for others, perhaps, but not for you. I'm not upset, but could you explain this to your grandfather?"

Lily remained silent. He was correct; it wouldn't have been a problem for a Lodge family member.

Changing the subject, she asked, "Was something wrong with the invitation that brought you here?"

He hadn't planned to come to Kingsland; their agreement was for her to attend the event and return immediately. But he'd rushed over, secretly whisking her away. This, combined with the events of the day and the courtyard incident, clearly indicated something was amiss.