Chapter 921

Alexander began his busy day with several important meetings, leaving Lily with a relatively free schedule. With little else to occupy her time, she commenced wedding preparations. Though not enthusiastic, she felt obligated to participate, as the wedding plans were already underway. This kept her busy while Alexander worked.

The invitations proved the most challenging aspect. Alexander hadn't introduced her to his family or taken her to the Russell estate. His evident reluctance toward his family left Lily unsure whom, or how many, to invite. Her inactivity, coupled with fewer phone calls, might have contributed to her unexpected illness.

Waking around noon, Lily felt dizzy and her vision blurred. A shower proved difficult; she managed to descend the stairs for something to eat, but lacked both appetite and energy. A thermometer reading of 102°F confirmed her fever. "What the hell?!" she exclaimed. Having enjoyed good health throughout her life, this sudden illness surprised her. She drank some water and returned to bed, only to be interrupted by a knock.

"Madame? Madame..." the maid's persistent voice called. "Are you awake?"

Lily frowned. "What is it?" she replied lazily, adding that she preferred not to be disturbed unless absolutely necessary.

"Someone wishes to see you," the maid responded. "She says she's Mr. Russell's grandmother." She quickly added, "And the woman who visited yesterday, claiming to be his aunt, is here as well."

Lily sighed, rolling her eyes. It seemed the invitations would resolve themselves. Yesterday, Alexander's aunt had appeared; today, his grandmother. If she ignored them, would the entire Russell family arrive?

"Should I tell them you're unwell and send them away?" the maid offered, acknowledging the unusualness of dismissing the employer's aunt and grandmother, but noting Alexander's previous instructions. They wouldn't dare disobey.

"It's fine," Lily said, struggling to rise. As she approached the door, the maid gasped. "Madame, why are you so flushed?"

"I have a fever. Could you get me some aspirin?" she asked, needing to clear her head before deciding how to proceed.

She recalled Alexander's urgent return yesterday, after she'd asked him to send Celine away. His worry had been evident, and the encounter with Celine had clearly affected him. Knowing his busy schedule—three morning meetings—she hesitated to call him again. Would it bother him? Would he drop everything and rush back?