Chapter 121

Lily’s mouth opened. She didn’t expect that. Her instincts told her to say no, to be proud and push back. But exhaustion and relief folded a different answer out of her. “Are you sure?” she asked, voice small. “I don’t want to be a nuisance.” Carson waved a hand like it was nothing. “You’re not a nuisance. You’re also not some gold-digging schemer. That’s not Claire’s type. I’ll trust my sister’s pick.” He grinned and added, “Besides, I’ll have someone to annoy now that I’m back. It’ll be fun.” He said it like a promise, part jest, part genuine interest. Lily couldn’t tell whether to be relieved or wary. She chose relief. “Thank you,” she said softly. “I’ll...I'll be careful. And I’ll try to find a place quick.” Carson nodded. “Then it’s agreed.” They kept talking after that, in small, easy exchanges that felt like drifting stones, light and safe. He teased her about living in luxury and not knowing the rules, and she defended herself with dry, honest answers. She told him a little mor