Chapter 475
Edward's solemn expression and hesitant speech alerted Alexander. He glanced at Lily and Brandon, then rose and moved away to speak privately with Edward. "What is it?" he asked.
Edward whispered something to Alexander, causing a change in Alexander's expression and a subconscious glance toward Lily. That single look sent a chill down Lily's spine. Alexander simply nodded, saying, "I got it," before returning to the dining table, leaving Edward where he stood.
Lily looked up at Alexander as he rejoined them. Brandon, oblivious, continued eating, seemingly unaware of Alexander's culinary skills, which rivaled those of a Michelin chef. He remained focused on his food, ignoring the couple's hushed conversation.
Alexander's gaze briefly rested on Brandon before he turned to Lily, saying solemnly, "There was a fire at Oakville Park a while ago."
Lily nodded, waiting for him to continue. Suddenly, a thought struck her. "Oakville Park? That sounds familiar! Isn't that where Liv stays now?" She remembered the location because she had driven Olivia home twice, and her apartment was near their office building.
Alexander confirmed her recollection. Shock washed over Lily, and she stood abruptly. "Then, Liv"
"The entire building burned down. Most residents were sent to the hospital. We're still gathering details," Alexander explained. "Edward got the news and reported it to me immediately."
Lily gasped, wanting to rush out, but Alexander stopped her. "The fire department, police, and ambulances are already there. They're professionals. You can't help, and you might even hinder them. Stay calm. I've asked Edward to find out more. We'll know as soon as they find Olivia." His words were logical, but Lily's anxiety was overwhelming.
Olivia, her only close friend at MN Inc., had been a steadfast supporter, even defending Lily against Nathaniel. They often worked late together on projects. More than a friend, Olivia felt like family. The thought of something happening to her was unbearable. Yet, Alexander's words reminded her of something else.
Lily glanced at her casual attire and realized it was unsuitable for a scene like that. She nodded calmly. "Okay, I'll change quickly. We'll go immediately if there's any news, good or bad." Though she tried to remain composed, her voice trembled. She feared the worst.
"Don't worry. I'll stay with you," Alexander said, taking her hand, offering comfort and support.
Lily ascended the stairs as Alexander watched, sighing inwardly. Turning around, he saw a dumbfounded Brandon, who had finally stopped eating and stared at Alexander in confusion, his mouth slightly open. He put down his spoon. "Uh were you guys talking about the rundown apartment building at Oakville Park? The one that burned down?"
"Yeah," Alexander replied.
"That place was poorly maintained; the wiring was terrible. Its location is good, but it's been neglected for years. The city council planned to rebuild it. I'm not surprised there was a fire, but" Brandon, familiar with the area, found their distress unusual. "Your wife seemed very upset. She doesn't have relatives living there, does she?" He internally mused, 'This beautiful woman hasn't told me her name, and I know nothing about her family. If she's from a low-income family, it wouldn't surprise me if she had relatives there. But only two types of people would live there—low-income families who've lived there forever, or tenants from other cities, probably not well-off either. That's why they chose it; it was cheap.'