Chapter 146

Jenny's concern prompted a flurry of questions, but Lily, while not annoyed, felt it inappropriate to discuss her relationship with Alexander. She made a mental note to apologize to Jenny later for the omission.

"Don't worry," Lily said. "My friend isn't local. He's here on business, and we arranged to meet. We met so late because his schedule only allowed it; we were both busy during the day." Her excuse felt flimsy, but better than admitting she'd gotten lost during her run.

Jenny nodded thoughtfully, then a realization dawned. "Your friend is a guy?"

Lily's expression answered the question before she could speak.

"Is he your boyfriend?" Jenny pressed.

Lily hesitated. "I guess?" she said finally. "He's been my husband since we registered our marriage. A husband was once a boyfriend, so"

"Oh," Jenny breathed, visibly relieved. "Why do I feel so happy you have a boyfriend?"

Jenny's reaction amused Lily. "You look like a mother whose daughter finally got a boyfriend!"

"You're right," Jenny admitted. "Since you have a boyfriend, then you probably wouldn't" She trailed off. Her hesitation reminded Lily of their conversation the previous day. Lily, initially unconcerned, now felt curious. "Wouldn't what?"

"Forget it. It's baseless gossip," Jenny said, waving dismissively. She was clearly embarrassed by her earlier assumptions. But Lily knew what Jenny meant. "You think I only got into Rebirth because of connections with someone in management, right?"

"N-No! I didn't say that!" Jenny protested.

Lily smiled. "I know you didn't say it, but that's probably what everyone's saying."

"Not entirely!" Jenny blurted, deciding honesty was best. "Mr. Will insisted we keep you at Rebirth, but other employees know nothing about it. I eventually saw your talent, but I admit, I initially assumed you got in through connections."

Lily listened with a slight smile. She understood the assumptions and chose not to reveal her relationship with Alexander. She wanted to prove her capabilities were her own, not a result of her connection to Alexander or the Lodge family.

Jenny continued, "But I don't think your connections are within Rebirth. Mr. Will is the highest ranking here, and I saw nothing between you two. I guess you know someone at La Beauté Group, since Mr. Will is so protective."

Lily was surprised by Jenny's proximity to the truth.

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