Rewrite Her Thrilling Life (Lillian and Sebastian) novel Chapter 288

Chapter 288 Under the Veil

Sebastian’s composed exterior and carefully chosen words stunned everyone present. No one had anticipated that the usually aloof and distant Sebastian could reveal such a rare glimpse of warmth and tenderness. The atmosphere shifted subtly, as if the icy barrier around him had momentarily melted.

Amidst the crowd, a pair of eyes, dark and sharp with a hint of malice, fixed themselves on the girl with the radiant smile. The hand holding the wine glass tightened its grip until the knuckles turned pale, betraying the tension beneath the surface.

Mr. Robert observed every glance exchanged, every subtle gesture between the two, his mind quietly recalibrating his plans. What he failed to notice, however, was that the very man he was scrutinizing had already captured Lyla’s attention in a way that went beyond mere curiosity.

With Lyla supporting him gently, Robert made his way to the stage, a warm smile spreading across his face. “Thank you all for being here tonight. Your presence means more than words can express. I’m deeply grateful for the unwavering support you’ve given Soren Group over the years. Without you, we wouldn’t be where we are today. So please, allow me this moment to extend my heartfelt appreciation.” He raised his glass in a toast, the room echoing with polite applause.

Fawks, eyes narrowing as he watched Robert from the sidelines, leaned toward Sebastian and murmured under his breath, “What scheme is that old fox cooking up now?”

Sebastian swirled the rich red wine in his glass thoughtfully, his voice low and steady. “He’s planning to use that piece of land as leverage to secure a powerful alliance for his granddaughter.”

Cameron’s eyes widened in surprise, and he turned sharply to Sebastian. “Don’t tell me Robert’s aiming to set you up.”

The room fell silent, all eyes snapping to Sebastian, waiting for his response with barely concealed curiosity.

With a calm, almost indifferent gesture, Sebastian downed the wine in one smooth motion. “He wouldn’t dangle bait without a target in mind. He only hinted at it, nothing explicit.”

Fawks tilted his head, considering the situation. “The Soren heirs have always followed Mr. Robert’s plans without question. My guess is that this upcoming auction is his way of testing the waters.”

Lillian’s brow furrowed slightly as she took the note, unfolding it carefully. Her expression shifted instantly, a mix of surprise and concern flashing across her face. Without hesitation, she rose and hurried toward the garden.

Her eyes scanned the dimly lit space anxiously until she finally spotted the figure she sought, seated on a bench beneath the soft glow of a nearby lantern. Relief flooded her chest. Even from behind, she recognized him unmistakably — it was Ryan.

He sat slouched forward, his body swaying slightly as if struggling to maintain balance.

Lillian rushed to his side, the sharp, lingering scent in the air causing her to frown in worry. Grasping his arm gently but firmly, she shook him lightly. “Ryan…”

He lifted his head just enough to meet her gaze, his flushed face breaking into a foolish, unsteady grin. His glassy eyes locked onto hers as he murmured, “Beautiful… you came to keep me company.” He reached out, attempting to grasp her arm, his movements sluggish and uncoordinated.