Chapter 829

"Is your world really just about money and hookups?" Lily stood up, glanced at the time. "Sorry, but with you around, I've really got no interest in staying here. We're all classmates—after graduation, I hope everyone lives well, but that 'well-off' should come from effort, not comparing who married better." She grabbed her bag and turned to leave, then paused to glance at Stephen. "Yeah, I did get married. No, I'm not gonna flash my certificate, but it's real. And I hope you find your happiness too, Stephen." With that, Lily walked out. The manager tried to follow and say something, but Lily cut him off. "Thanks. How much did Nicholas pay you?" The manager thought about it seriously. "Mr. Hale is a big client. Referring business to me is more valuable than just cash." Lily nodded. Made sense. Hotels needed clients, and Nicholas did have connections—bringing in business was practically the same as handing over money. "You're pretty committed," Lily said as she stepped into the elevator