Chapter 592

With a beep, the door opened. The man, now aware of the woman's unexpectedly firm resolve, politely said, "Ms. Christian, this way."

Entering, Lily discreetly made an "OK" sign behind her back, ensuring Alexander saw. Seeing the door close, Alexander shook his head, realizing his continuous smile. He was pleased by her strength, but vowed to always protect her regardless.

Lily's prediction proved correct; Noah arrived early the next day, the doorbell ringing as she ate breakfast. Without looking up, she calmly continued. Upon entering, he saw her holding toast. "You're early, and even more diligent than I expected," Noah praised, clapping. Lily, however, regarded him with thinly veiled amusement. Diligent? Eating breakfast? she thought.

His compliment unanswered, he rubbed his nose. "I think your memory shouldn't be that bad. You should remember who I am by now, right?"

Lily put down her half-eaten toast, brushed her hands, and looked up. "I don't care who you are. I just want to know what you're up to."

She disliked wasting food, but the instant meals in the refrigerator were appalling. Only two days away from home, she already missed Alexander's cooking. Pursing her lips, she admitted to herself that his delicious food had made her rather discerning.

Noah anticipated her question. Chuckling, he pulled up a chair. "Are you interested in joining the Perfumers' Society?"

"I thought you came to challenge me."

"That's on the agenda, but don't you have a career plan?" He paused. "I know you rejected Mr. Parker's invitation in Westwood and chose to return home. I admire your patriotism, but... don't you have plans beyond that? For example… joining the Perfumers' Society, becoming a member, director, even vice president or president someday?"

"Then I'll be at the peak of my career?" Lily played along, though uninterested. His words held no appeal.

"Yeah!" Noah nodded, convinced she was swayed.

After her return from Westwood, he'd investigated Lily. Information was scarce, particularly about her pre-university life. He knew she was related to the Lodge family, though not carrying their surname.

Her post-university life was far more intriguing. A several-year relationship had ended a year ago—a significant event, even trending on Twitter. After disagreements, she'd changed jobs within the same industry.

Most surprising was her engagement to Alexander Russell, CEO of Alcauté Group—public knowledge, though lacking an official announcement. Noah conceded Lily possessed many interesting facets.

Her professionalism and talent as a perfumer, however, most impressed him. Such talent, he believed, deserved to work for him.

"I can help you if you're interested." His enticement complete, he laid his bait, confident in her decision.