Ethan’s Unexpected Appearance

When her father made those remarks, Lily couldn't help but feel a deep sense of inadequacy.

It was as though she had already lost her right to self-respect ever since she agreed to become Ethan Blackwood's mistress.

In her bedroom, Lily collapsed face-first onto her bed, burying her face in the soft blanket.

A school reunion...

Damn that school reunion!

On the other end—

Ethan leaned back in his chair, one hand propping up his chin. His gaze was fixed on the screen, showing Lily lying on her bed, clearly upset and conflicted.

Suddenly, she sat up and tried to pep herself up in a strangely childish manner, her fists clenched tightly. "You've got this, Lily Anderson! You can do it! There's nothing to be afraid of!"

Ethan watched, momentarily at a loss for words.

So this is what she's like when she's alone?

Why does it feel like the Lily I'm watching on the screen differs from the composed, quiet Lily I know?