Chapter 26

The morning light streamed into the dining room as Lilly faced Alexander.The tension between them was palpable, the air thick with unspoken accusations. Alexander sat at the head of the table, his composure unnervingly calm as he stirred his coffee.

"Explain to me again why you're so adamant about this event," Lilly ventured, her voice steady but cautious.

Alexander didn't glance up. "It's time you played the role of Mrs. Kane in public."

Her heart thudded against her ribcage. “I thought we agreed to keep this marriage private," she countered, her tone measured.

Setting his cup down with a soft clink, Alexander fixed her with a gaze so cold it made her breath hitch. "I don't recall agreeing to anything. This marriage, like everything else, operates on my terms."

Lilly's fingers curled around her napkin, her mind racing. “Why now?What changed?”

He leaned back, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. “Perhaps I've grown tired of keeping you hidden.”

His cryptic response unsettled her. Before she could press further, he rose,buttoned his jacket, and left the room with a parting glance that promised no further discussion. As the sound of his footsteps faded, Lilly sat frozen, her thoughts a whirlwind of suspicion and fear. What was Alexander planning? Later That Day: Lilly's Apartment The air in her old apartment was thick with tension as her friends gathered around her. Matthew, Sarah, and Michael watched her expectantly.their concern evident.

“You're here early," Lilly said, forcing a faint smile to mask her unease.

Matthew crossed his arms, his expression grave. "We needed to talk. Sit down.”

The chair in the center of the roomn felt more like an interrogation spot than a place to rest. Lilly hesitated but eventually took the seat,bracing herself.

Matthew didn't waste time. "Why didn't you tell us about the pregnancy?And what's this about Kane dragging you to some high-profile event?”

Lilly exhaled, her fingers gripping the armrest. "I didn't tell you because it complicates things. As for the event..." She paused, glancing at each of them.“Alexander plans to introduce me as his wife at the Lawrence family's grand celebration."

The room erupted into chaos.

Michael's voice rose above the others."He's exposing your marriage? That wasn't part of the plan! Do you realize what this means?"

Sarah's eyes widened in alarm. "Your family will be there, won't they?They'll recognize you, Lilly. They'll know you're alive." Lilly nodded, her face resolute."That's exactly what I'm counting on." Matthew stepped closer, his tone sharp. "Have you lost your mind? If they find out, they'll come after you-and the baby." "I'm done hiding." Lilly said firmly. "This is the perfect chance to force their hand. In a public setting, with the media watching, they can't deny my existence. They'Il have to face me, and their every move will be scrutinized."

Michael shook his head. "We don't have enough evidence to take them down yet. If you make a move too soon-"

"I'll handle it," Lilly interrupted, her voice steady. “Being out in the open will force them to slip up. I need them to make mistakes, and this is how I'll do it."

Sarah stepped forward, her voice trembling. "And Alexander? What happens when he finds out the truth about who you are?"

Lilly's gaze faltered for a moment before hardening with resolve.“I'll deal with Alexander when the time comes. Right now, I need to focus on exposing my family.”

The room fell silent, the weight of her decision pressing down on all of them.

Matthew finally spoke, his voice low. "If you're set on this,we'll back you.But, Lilly... be careful. You're not just fighting for yourself anymore."

Lilly placed a hand over her stomach, a flicker of vulnerability crossing her face."I know. That's why I have to do this."

***** ******** The boardroom on the 30th floor was a hive of activity as Kate Blake made her entrance, flanked by her mother, Bella, and her assistant. The executives' murmurs quieted as she strode confidently to the front,her polished demeanor commanding the room.

"This is your moment. Kate," Bella whispered, her eyes shining with pride.

Kate nodded, her mind laser-focused on her goals. She had worked tirelessly for this position, enduring countless challenges to prove her worth. Today, she was officially taking over as CEO of Blake Real Estate Management.

"Good afternoon," Kate began, her voice smooth and poised. "I'm honored to accept the role of CEO. Together, we will continue to lead Blake Real Estate to greater heights.”

The applause that followed was deafening, but Kate's mind was elsewhere.Memories of a figure from her past-a face she thought she had seen in a crowd-gnawed at her. Could Lilly truly be alive?

Her thoughts drifted to the upcoming Lawrence family celebration. It was the perfect opportunity to solidify her standing in Aurora City's elite.And perhaps, it was time to confront the ghost of her past.

As the applause faded, Kate's resolve deepened. She would seize this moment-not just to claim her position, but to win Alexander Kane's heart.