Chapter 30 Re-encounter (I)

"Mr. Sterling?" Lily Parker paused in astonishment. The world was inexplicably small. So small, in fact, that she kept running into him in the most embarrassing situations. And there he sat, nonchalantly, yet exuding an aura of superiority, his gaze piercing as if it could see through souls, making her feel oddly intimidated.

In Lily's mind, asking for favors with money wasn't quite honorable, especially when the favor was from Julian Sterling, Ethan Hart's friend. It just didn't sit right. Her first instinct was to flee the scene, but her legs felt as though they were laden with lead. Why? Because she couldn't delay her father's issue any longer. She vividly remembered her uncle mentioning that if Julian Sterling were willing to help, the matter would be resolved promptly. There was no reason for her not to trust Julian.

Suddenly, the gentle sound of wine being poured echoed in her ears, making her breath hitch.

Julian lifted his wine glass, swirling the deep red liquid until it shim