Chapter 703

The road was congested due to an accident ahead. Although traffic police were on the scene, cars moved forward slowly. Seeing the slow progress, Lily, initially calm, grew anxious. She checked the traffic and the time, then said helplessly, "Sir, please pull over there."

Turning to Olivia, she said, "Don't worry. Stay in the car and drive slowly. I'll get out and walk."

"It's dangerous! There are so many cars!" Olivia exclaimed, grabbing Lily's arm.

"It's fine. I'll be careful. I'm already late."

Lily glanced at the road. A nearby side street might reach the hotel faster, if she remembered correctly.

"Then… be careful!"

Olivia, though worried, could only offer gentle reminders.

Once the car stopped, Lily quickly opened the door and got out. She trotted to the side of the road, clutching her box tightly. She had to arrive as soon as possible; any further delay was unacceptable.

The previously quiet venue grew restless. Fruit and snacks were nearly gone. As time ticked by, tempers flared again.

"Where is Ms. Christian? Is this your excuse? We respect and believe in La Beauté Group, but you can't treat us as fools! Look at the time!"

"If she doesn't come soon, we're leaving!"

"Right! Ms. Christian's probably too afraid to show up!"

A screech from the microphone cut through the uproar. Everyone turned to the stage where Alexander, in a tailored black suit, was slowly walking out. As president of La Beauté Group and a prominent figure in Brown City, his presence instantly silenced the crowd. They waited expectantly for his response.

Even without Lily, the reporters and media wouldn't have wasted their time, given Alexander's willingness to speak. However, his appearance only fueled speculation that Lily dared not appear, necessitating his intervention.

The crowd was surprised by Alexander's consideration for his fiancée. Many felt Lily was unworthy of him for not being present.

Alexander's mere presence commanded attention. He cleared his throat, surveyed the crowd, and then spoke: "Thank you to the media and reporters for attending. Regarding today's press conference, the reason for our gathering is clear.

"A few days ago, an audio recording circulating online caused a significant stir, implicating Miss Lily, our company's perfumer. I know most of you have heard it and formed your conclusions regarding its authenticity.

"I won't address the recording's authenticity now. Instead, I will discuss its content."