Entangled Passions

Lily gritted her teeth, trying to suppress her emotions as she spoke into the phone, "Uncle, I'm working on a big story right now. It's not convenient for me to talk. Please go to sleep without waiting for me. I'll be home later."

She quickly ended the call, afraid her uncle would sense that something was off.

"You're quick at coming up with lies," Ethan sneered, his voice full of disdain.

"Ethan, you can't do this," Lily said, flushed from his teasing. She managed to hold back her anger and turned to face him seriously. "We need to talk. You shouldn't interfere with my personal life... Let's agree not to meddle in each other's private affairs or interact with acquaintances, okay?"

She really wanted to say that she didn't want him in her life at all, but she knew this arrogant man wouldn't take that well. She had to be subtle. She was already giving him plenty of face.