Her Heart Her Terms (Lily and Xavier)

Chapter 243

Chapter 243

Lily answered Xavier's call not because she wanted to, but rather out of fear that he might show up and confront her in front of everyone if she didn't.

Any interaction between contestants and sponsors or judges was highly sensitive in the eyes of others during competitions. The slightest misstep could lead to accusations of favoritism or comption. Xavier left her with a cryptic tematk before hanging up, leaving the persistent sound of the dial tone ringing in her ears.

She regained her senses and stared at her darkened phone screen momentarily before shoving it back into her pocket and silently continuing to wait for a ride.

Perhaps due to the shortage of cars and abundance of people, the hotel security arranged for carpooling for those headed in the same direction, speeding up the process considerably.

Two male designers happened to be going the same way as Lily, so they shared a ride. Since her home was the farthest, they dropped the other two first before heading to Bayview Gardens.

It was morning rush hour. It had been two hours since Xavier called her by the time she got out of the car.

the stillness of the winter midday just as she was about to enter the complex. She stopped in her tracks and turned around to see Xavier stepping out of

expression was solemn with a barely restrained anger. He lit a cigarette, took a long drag,

felt rooted to the spot under his gaze. Her legs felt as if weighed down by lead, unable to

wasn't here to

and hesitated momentarily before walking toward him

want to win the championship

her approach. He had spent an hour loolding for her only to find out

up for the competition. However, the desire to

held his cigarette between his

yours." Lily looked up in surprise. The misty winter air swirled between them. She waved away the smole and the mist to get a clearer view of his expression. This wasn't a casual offer but a grave

you at least stop humiliating me?" Did he think the only way she could win was if

The cold

you advanced? Why did you take it when someone gives it to you, but it becomes an insult when I

because anyone handed it to me!" Lily snapped back. "And it's none of your business even if someone did help me win!" Xavier was so furious that he laughed. "How