Chapter 911

"It's not that easy to dissolve a renowned society," Lily said, tending the flowers. "Do you believe it has come this far only to be dissolved so easily? It wasn't established for anyone in particular, and it won't dissolve for anyone. I'm not that powerful." She was merely a catalyst. The Perfumers' Society was self-made. Inevitably, subordinates adopted their superiors' bad habits. However, without Lawrence's ego, Noah's ambition, and the association's abandonment of its original goals, things wouldn't have crumbled so readily. While it seemed Lily bore sole responsibility, that wasn't the case.

"Then, with all this chaos, what's the next move?"

"Sit back and relax. How many are sincere, and how many have ulterior motives amidst this chaos?" Lily trimmed stray branches, then smiled softly. "Think about it. If I took this position, the responsibility would be immense. I'm not capable." Her focus on perfume-making left her lacking in management experience. Those clamoring for her presidency either harbored hidden agendas or were blinded by admiration. Only when things calmed would clarity return. While few matched her perfumery skills, many were far better suited to lead the society.

"Regardless, I'll never join the Perfumers' Society," she said lightly.

"Madam, there's someone at the gate."

Since their relationship became public and wedding preparations commenced, they'd hired domestic help. With both of them home frequently, extra assistance was welcome. The maids addressed Lily as "Madam." Frowning, she replied, "Didn't I say no visitors?" Numerous calls and uninvited guests had been arriving lately, all dismissed.

"It's just..." The maid hesitated, whispering, "She says she's Mr. Russell's aunt."

"His aunt?" Only one woman came to mind—the one she'd seen at the jewelry store. Could it be Celine?

"Is she alone?" Lily asked.

The maid nodded. "Yes, but she brought gifts. Perhaps to congratulate you on the wedding."

The house buzzed with festive cheer. Alexander had even overdone the decorations, in Lily's opinion. The maids, aware of the upcoming wedding, assumed any visitor was offering congratulations. Lily disagreed. After the last incident, she knew Alexander's relationship with his family was strained. She hadn't pressed for details, respecting his reasons for remaining silent. She wasn't sure if Alexander knew of Celine's arrival.

After considering, she called him. Alexander answered with his low, smooth voice.

"What's wrong? Miss me already?"

Rolling her eyes, she stated, "Oh, please. Your aunt is here."

"My aunt?" Surprise laced his tone. "Did she see you?"

"No," Lily replied, "She's at the gate. I wanted to check with you first."