Lily's bedroom window let in the morning sun, which painted her walls in subdued gold tones. She hadn't even slept. Like a broken record, her encounter with Ethan Blake had been replayed repeatedly in her memory. His enigmatic caution reverberated in her mind: Lily, exercise caution. You have no idea what you're getting into.
By that, what did he mean? Was Ethan aware of the affair? Was he attempting to keep his sister safe, or was there another reason? She couldn't dispute the indisputable charge between them, but she didn't fully trust him. It was simultaneously intoxicating, perplexing, and angry.
Lily forced herself out of bed, determined to concentrate on the task at hand. Ethan Blake wasn't the focus of today. It has to do with Cassandra. She couldn't let her feelings get in the way of her drive for answers.
Lily had a cup of black coffee and a fast shower, and then she put on a stylish black dress and high heels. She needed to appear polished, self-assured, and untouchable. The type of woman who wouldn't give up under the pressure of treachery.
Cassandra's store was her first destination. Known for its stylish designs and affluent clients, it was one of the most prestigious fashion firms in the city. Cassandra had carved out her empire and constructed it from the ground up. She radiated strength and achievement, so it was no surprise that Daniel had been attracted to her. However, Lily wasn't present to recognize her achievements today. Her purpose was to expose the flaws in Cassandra's flawless exterior.
As Lily entered, the bell above the door chimed. The murmur of classical music blended with the aroma of leather and pricey perfume. With rows of high-end apparel and glass cases brimming with glittering accessories, the boutique was spotless.
She was met with a friendly smile from a young helper. "Good morning. Greetings from Cassandra's. What can I do for you today?
Lily smiled back, speaking in a cool, collected tone. "Thank you, but I'm just browsing right now."
Lily looked around the room as the helper left. Soon after, she noticed Cassandra talking to a customer in the rear of the shop. Her well-tailored, smart suit gave her the appearance of a self-assured entrepreneur.
Lily steadied herself despite her gut twisting. This was her opportunity.
Her heels clicked on the polished floor as she walked progressively closer. Cassandra looked up, a momentary lapse in expression before she regained her composure.
"Lily," she uttered in a deliberately bland tone. "I was surprised to see you here."
Lily's lips curled into a little, cold smile as she cocked her head. "I decided to drop by. Your boutique has been the subject of a lot of talk. It's beautiful.
Cassandra's eyes narrowed a little as if she was attempting to determine Lily's motivations. "I'm grateful. I put a lot of effort into making it what it is.
"I can tell," Lily murmured, a hint of sharpness in her voice. "You've always managed to achieve your goals."
A hefty, weighted beat of quiet fell. Although Cassandra's jaw tensed, she remained calm. "Lily, is there anything I can do to help? Or did you simply come to look around?
Lily lowered her voice and took a step closer. "Cassandra, I believe you understand why I am here. I'm curious as to why.
Cassandra's composed exterior faltered as she blinked. "What is the reason?"
Lily's voice was stern as she screamed, "Don't play dumb." "What made you target my husband? What possible benefit could you possibly derive from ruining someone else's marriage?
Cassandra's gaze flitted about the room, obviously uneasy in such a public place. "This conversation is not appropriate at this time or location."
"Then schedule time," Lily insisted.
With a sigh, Cassandra's shoulders began to droop. "All right. In an hour, meet me in the café across the street. We can have a conversation there.
Cassandra didn't wait for an answer before turning and leaving, her heels clicking resolutely against the floor.
An hour later, Lily was sitting in a quiet corner of the café, across from Cassandra. As they sipped their beverages, the tension between them was evident, and the stillness dragged awkwardly.
The silence was finally broken by Cassandra. "Lily, I will not apologize. Not in light of Daniel's circumstances.
Lily's hold on her cup became more firm, but she made herself remain composed. "Then at least tell me what it is. Was it affection? Lust? Or did you simply want a fresh challenge because you were bored?
A sour smirk formed on Cassandra's lips. "You believe that you are the focus of this? Concerning him? You don't know what you're discussing.
Lily scowled as her annoyance increased. "So instruct me."
Cassandra's eyes were dark and unreadable as she reclined in her chair. Daniel and I... Love wasn't the topic. It wasn't even about him. It had to do with power. Concerning control. Something that you wouldn't comprehend.
"What even does that mean?" Lily's voice rose as she demanded.
Cassandra paused as if considering her next words. At last, she leaned forward and spoke in a whisper. "Lily, this isn't simply a trivial matter. This situation involves larger issues that are unrelated to you.
Lily's thoughts were racing as she gazed at her. What topic was Cassandra discussing? Was Daniel engaged in any risky activities? something against the law?
Cassandra stood up suddenly and tossed a couple of bills onto the table before Lily could push any farther. "Lily, get out of here. For your own benefit.
She then left, leaving Lily by herself with more questions than answers.
Lily's thoughts were racing with uncertainty and rage as she made her way home. The riddle was only made more complex by Cassandra's cryptic remarks. How had Daniel put himself into this situation? And why did Cassandra insist on reprimanding her?
One thing was clear to Lily: she was not going to back down. Whatever it took, she was determined to find the truth.
And Cassandra was gravely mistaken if she believed she could intimidate her.