Her Heart Her Terms (Lily and Xavier)

Chapter 26

Chapter 26

Shane asked again, "Was there something else you needed?"

"No. I just came about the hospital records," Lily explained.

Shane frowned. "Couldn't you have just asked Xavier about this?"

When Lily remained silent, Shane seemed to understand and quickly changed the subject. "Since you're here, why not stay for dinner? Mom's taking her afternoon nap, but she was just saying how much she misses you."

"I can't, Shane. I have other things to handle," Lily declined, even though she knew Xavier rarely came home. She worried that if Edith saw her, she might call Xavier to come over.

After Lily

Takes Action

he made

police station, where she learned that the deceased had worked at an electronics factory on the outskirts of town. When she arrived, two reporters were already at the gate, taking photos and interviewing the security guard. She waited until the reporters left before approaching the guard. He barely looked up asked, "Which newspaper are

and

paper..." Lily replied, casually pulling out an expensive pack of cigarettes she had found

regular worker here. She hadn't shown up for a few days before the incident, and

dismissal and turned to leave, realizing either the guard truly knew nothing or she had not offered enough incentive. Sighing, Lily decided she would have to come back better prepared. By the time she returned to Maryanne's place, night had fallen. She

her hand to block the glare,

a cigarette between his lips, flicking ash as he walked over and grabbed her wrist without warning.