Lilly stayed quiet. Honestly, she had no idea what she was supposed to say.
Jason broke the silence, his voice cool and distant. “Let’s go.”
Hanna nodded. “Okay.”
Jason turned to Ella. “Dr. Irvine, we’re heading out.”
“Goodbye, Mr. Farill,” Ella replied, polite as always.
Jason left with Hanna and Frank trailing behind.
Lilly watched Jason’s back as he walked away, her heart twisting painfully. It felt like a needle had lodged itself deep inside her, the ache refusing to let up.
Ella gave her a worried look. “Lilly, are you alright?”
Lilly shook her head. “I’m fine, Ella. Really.”
Roger chimed in, his tone gentle. “Lilly, you’ve always said you wanted to do some advanced studies at our school. I managed to get you a spot. Do you want it?”
Roger was a professor at one of the top universities. He mentioned a specialized program with an open slot and offered to help her secure a place.
Lilly’s schedule with fashion design had eased up lately, and she could use a change of scenery. Maybe being on campus would help her forget the pain Jason left behind.
Her face lit up. “Thank you, Roger. I’d love to do it.”
Roger nodded. “Great. I’ll come pick you up tomorrow and we’ll go together.”
Lilly was quick to refuse. “I’ll go on my own. You’re a professor, and I don’t want people thinking I got in because of you. Let’s just keep it professional.”
Roger laughed. “Alright. I’m off to dinner then.”
“Bye, Roger.”
Once Roger had left, Ella looked at Lilly, half teasing. “You know, I think Dr. Lee’s got a thing for you.”
They headed into a fancy private room and started their meal. Halfway through, Lilly excused herself to use the restroom.
She stood at the sink, splashing some cold water on her face.
The door creaked open behind her.
Lilly looked up and saw a familiar reflection in the mirror.
Hanna.
Hanna walked up next to her and started washing her hands. “Hey, Lilly. What a coincidence. I just came to wash my hands and ran into you.”
Lilly gave a small, knowing smile. “Hanna, there’s no one else here. Why pretend? You saw me come in and followed me, right? Are you here to rub your victory in my face?”
She wasn’t surprised at all. She’d known Hanna would find a way to talk to her in private.

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