Chapter 98

Lily froze, staring at it. Every instinct screamed at her to keep her distance. But the thought of stumbling out alone, cameras waiting to capture any trace of weakness… she hated it. With a reluctant exhale, she placed her hand in his. His grip was steady. Firm, but not forceful. “Ready?” he asked softly, his eyes catching hers for a brief moment. She didn’t answer. But when her heels hit the red carpet, her spine straightened on instinct. The reaction was immediate. The first murmur started from the reporters standing near the barricade. Then the clicking grew louder, faster, like a rainstorm of shutters. Voices rose, calling out: “Mr. Grey! Over here!” “Who’s the lady with you, Mr. Grey?” “Is this your fiancée?!” Lily’s face heated under the flashing lights. She lowered her gaze slightly, trying to maintain composure, but her heart hammered in her chest. She whispered through the corner of her lips, her voice edged with frustration. “This is exactly what I didn’t want.” Jabco didn’t