Time elapsed quickly, much to Lillie's chagrin. It's a given that she wasn't looking forward to the dinner with Wei Fang.

But the quicker she settles this impediment, the quicker she puts an end to Wei Fang pestering her about the past and using it as a reason for them to talk.

​​

And as much as she hates to admit it, he was right about her curiosity regarding how he knew of that incident. Eventually, she would've figured it out on her own, she doesn't need him to tell her.

But since the opportunity of being enlightened was served out on the table personally by the man himself, plus the annoying factor that she couldn't avoid him forever, Lillie resolved that this doesn't sound bad.

It's also less hassle, practically speaking.

So what if he knows? So what if other people knows? That little information wouldn't be enough to be used against her; take her down or destroy her spirit.

The main reason why Lillie wanted that to be kept confidential is because she didn't want those annoying reporters and the media swarming her like bees to honey.

A young girl, endowed with a devastatingly beautiful face that could be the cause of many country's downfall, kidnapped by a group of criminals composed of mostly males.

People would automatically assume something worst other than death, or maybe even worst than death.

They would question her innocence, her chastity. Those apathetic lot wouldn't give a f*ck about how that would make her—a traumatized teenage girl, whose future she presume no longer look so bright—feel as long as they could feed the society a juicy news.

Because let's face it, other than being the eldest and only daughter of the distinguished family Bai family, whose father owns the multi-billion company, White Phoenix Empire, and mother who's dubbed as the Fashion Queen world-wide, Lillie Bai was predominantly a stranger to them.

They held no personal relationship with her, so why should they care if they broadcast her incident for the world to know?

"I'm not coming with you?" Elliot repeated Lillie's words as she draped her coat over her shoulders.

"Wei Fang preferred that we're alone." Lillie explained, looking at herself in the mirror to check if she's presentable. "It's not a good idea, I'm aware. But you and I both know I could take care of myself."

"Even if that's true, I still can't help but worry." A frown marred his charming face. "Especially in your current condition."

Lillie sighed before offering him a gentle, reassuring smile. "I appreciate your concern for me, my friend. I'll be careful."

After knowing about her pregnancy, Elliot's agitation over her safety heightened, and he's not the only one. Everyone she informed—mostly the Elders—we're all being overprotective.

Ethan overprotectiveness was already too much, what more if you added nine Elders.

It was very sweet of them, really. But it could get pretty annoying when they fret over the simplest things she do, treating her as if she was the most fragile glass that could crack at a slightest touch.

She certainly gave them an unforgettable wake up call of what she's capable of.

As for hers and Ethan's family, Lillie was keeping them in the dark for just a while. Knowing how overjoyed they'll be once they heard the good news, Lillie planned to treat the little bean as a surprise for them.

"Have you taken your medicine?"

"I did."

"Don't eat or drink anything from that restaurant you're going to. Who knows if he bribed the—"

"I know, Elliot," Lillie sighed exasperatedly. This is what she's going through right now. "I know."

Lillie looked at him from the mirror and saw him looking at her as if he wanted to say something more but was hesitant.

Soon enough, he managed to muster up a courage as he asked, "Are you sure I couldn't at least drive you there?"

"...don't make me smack you too, Elliot."

***

Entering the restaurant's reception area, Lillie wasn't expecting to see Wei Fang standing there, waiting for her.

"Thea," Wei Fang approached her with an ecstatic smile on his face. "I'm glad you could make it."

"Mr. Wei." Lillie dipped her chin in a curt acknowledgment.

Wei Fang paid no heed to Lillie's dry, impassive greeting and the poorly disguised disinterest in her features.

Lillie wants nothing to do with him, or his efforts to make this dinner anything but a total flop.

And like the evil b*tch she is, Lillie hope it does. Be informed that she'll relish his plight to appease her vengeful nature and the childishness—scarce, but still there—she has.

Wei Fang's smile remained bright and unwavering despite Lillie's coldness. "Won't you skip the formalities just for tonight, Thea? We're not here because of our companies, after all."

"I believe I didn't stuttered the first time, Mr. Wei." Lillie flatly said. "And need I remind you not to call me Thea?"

"Well, if you refuse to agree with my request, then I think it's only fair if I refuse yours."

The edge of Lillie's lips twitched, affronted, but she didn't let that slip out and give him the satisfaction that he's affecting her.

"Shall we?" Wei Fang gestured for them to walk inside. He wanted to offer his arm and guide her there, but he's not presumptuous to not predict Lillie's blatant rejection.

To save himself from another ache in his heart because of Lillie's coldness towards him and being embarrassed, Wei Fang made a wise decision.

Settling inside the VIP room Wei Fang reserved, he was about to let her know that she could order whatever she wants when Lillie beat him to it, saying, "I'm not hungry."

Wei Fang froze for a moment, his mouth left slightly ajar.

Aren't they suppose to have dinner? What else would they do here if they won't order anything?

"Wine, perhaps?"

"No." An instant rejection.

Wei Fang was looking helpless. "You don't want anything? I heard this place is famous for their mouth-watering desserts." Wei Fang said. "I remember how much you love sweets, that's why I picked this place."

Oh hoh, using sweets to bait me? How dare you treat me like I'm some simple-minded little girl who could be induced with a cheap and low trick.

"Are you sure you wouldn't like to try them?" Wei Fang raised his eyebrow.

I officially hate you to the bones, Wei Fang.

"Let's cut this nonsense and move straight to the real agenda, Mr. Wei." Lillie crossed her arms, indignant, and adamant that she wouldn't let him have his way.