My Husband's Affair My Anniversary Gift (Lily and David) novel Chapter 48

Jacob laughed lightly, as though Olivia’s words hadn’t unsettled him in the slightest. His expression remained calm, even respectful, as he nodded.

“Understood. I respect her, Mrs. Hardison. Nothing more. Don’t worry.”

The firmness in his tone carried no hint of mockery, only assurance. Yet, Lily could feel her chest tightening.

She forced a smile, her lips tugging upward even as the weight pressed heavier on her.

“Mum, Mr. Grey truly is just a colleague. Please don’t misunderstand.”

Olivia’s faint smile softened her stern demeanor. She reached out, brushing her fingers briefly over Lily’s arm in a familiar, motherly gesture.

“Don’t worry. I trust you. You know that.”

The words soothed, but Lily caught the subtle glance Olivia stole at Jacob. It wasn’t distrust in her daughter-in-law, but rather a warning—an evaluation of Jacob’s intent. Olivia’s eyes lingered on him just a heartbeat longer before she returned her gaze to Lily, as if to say, I’ve seen enough to know he feels something more.

“Come with me shopping,” Olivia said suddenly, her tone lighter, almost playful. “It’s been a while since you’ve accompanied me. You need a change of air. Clothes, shoes—let me spoil you a little.”

Lily’s lips curved apologetically. “Mum, I would love to, but I’ve got work lined up. We’re preparing some documents for the next project phase. It might take most of the day.”

Olivia sighed dramatically, though her eyes were still warm. “Always working. I understand. At least promise me you’ll take care of yourself.” She slipped a sleek card from her wallet and handed it to Lily. “This is a VIP card for a spa and boutique. Use it, pamper yourself properly. Don’t turn into a tired shadow of yourself before my birthday party. I want to see you looking radiant next to David. A perfect couple—that’s how people should see you.”

Her words were meant with affection, but Lily felt the sting hidden underneath them. A reminder of the role she played, the image she had to uphold. She accepted the card quietly, pressing it between her fingers as though it burned.

“Yes, Mum. I’ll make sure.”

Olivia’s expression softened again, satisfied with the answer. With a final nod at Jacob and one last look at Lily, she excused herself.

Silence hung between Lily and Jacob for a moment after Olivia left. The weight of what had just transpired lingered. Jacob, however, appeared almost amused by it, as if the entire scene had only deepened his understanding of Lily.

“I suppose our collaboration will become even more… interesting,” he said, a small curve playing on his lips. His gaze lingered on her face, steady and almost daring.

“I look forward to working with you, Lily. And...” his voice lowered, rich with unspoken meaning.... “I look forward to watching your husband become a fool.”

Her head snapped toward him, her brows knitting in sharp disapproval. “Jacob.”

But he only chuckled, brushing it off casually as though he hadn’t meant it seriously. “Relax. I’m only saying I’ll enjoy watching him underestimate you. That’s all.”

Still uneasy, Lily didn’t respond further. Instead, she gathered her things, preparing to leave. She forced composure into her voice.

“I’ll see you at the office tomorrow. Goodbye, Mr. Grey.”

Jacob inclined his head politely, though his eyes followed her until she disappeared from view.

The drive to meet Noah felt heavier than usual. Lily stared out the window as the city blurred.

When she arrived at the café where she and Noah usually met, she spotted her friend waving from a corner table. Noah’s presence always carried a kind of warmth that made Lily breathe easier, yet tonight she couldn’t quite shake her tension.

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