Chapter 43

Lewis opened the car door for Lily, his eyes scanning her face with concern. She slid into the passenger seat, her movements quiet and subdued. Lewis closed the door gently, his expression thoughtful.

As he walked around to the driver's side, Lily gazed out the window, her mind replaying the encounter with Ethan. She couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions—hurt, anger, and a hint of sadness. But beneath it all, she felt a sense of liberation, a sense of freedom from the toxic relationship she had once been trapped in.

Lewis got into the car and started the engine, his eyes meeting Lily's briefly before focusing on the road. "You okay?" he asked softly, his voice a gentle inquiry.

Lily nodded, her eyes still fixed on the window. She didn't need to say anything; Lewis understood her silence. He knew she'd been hurt by Ethan's words and actions, but he also knew she was stronger than she thought.

As they drove away from the hospital, Lily felt a sense of peace settle over her. She was done with Ethan, done with the drama and the pain. She was ready to move on, to start anew.

The silence between them was comfortable, a gentle hum of understanding and empathy. Lewis didn't need to fill the space with words; he simply drove, his presence a steady reassurance that Lily appreciated.

As they drove, Lily's gaze drifted toward Lewis, her eyes tracing the lines of his face. She felt a surge of gratitude toward him, and before she knew it, the words tumbled out. "Thank you, Lewis," she said softly, her voice sincere.

Lewis's eyes flicked toward her, a hint of surprise in his expression. "For what?" he asked, his voice gentle.

Lily's thoughts spilled out in a rush. "For everything. For saving me, for being there for me... I have to admit, after college, I didn't appreciate you. I thought you were just trying to get back at Ethan through me. But now... I realize you truly care for me."

Lewis's expression softened, and he smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "You don't have to thank me, Lily," he said, his voice low and warm. "I really care for you. In the past and now too."

Lily's eyes met his, and she felt a flutter in her chest. She stayed silent, her thoughts whirling as she processed her emotions. Lewis's words hung in the air, a gentle declaration that spoke directly to her heart.

****

Sarah glanced at Ethan, her eyes narrowing slightly as she noticed the tension still evident on his face. "You're still thinking about her, aren't you?" she asked, a hint of annoyance creeping into her voice.

Ethan's expression darkened, his jaw clenched in frustration. "No, I'm not," he denied, his tone short.

Sarah raised an eyebrow, her tone skeptical. "Don't lie to me, Ethan. I can see it in your eyes. You're still hung up on her."

Ethan's anger flared up again, and he turned to face her. "That's not true," he insisted. "I'm just upset about what happened, that's all."

The argument escalated, with both of them exchanging heated words. Finally, Ethan's patience wore thin, and he said, "Let's just go home."

But Sarah shook her head. "I don't need a ride home. I have a shoot today, and my team will be waiting for me."

Ethan's face was impassive, his emotions locked away. Without a word, he changed direction and drove to his office building instead. The silence between them was oppressive, the tension palpable.

As they arrived at the office, Ethan pulled up to the curb and stopped the car. Sarah opened the door and stepped out, her expression cool. "I'll see you later," she said, her voice detached.

Ethan watched her go, his eyes fixed on her retreating figure. He didn't say a word.

****

Lewis pulled up to the Gray mansion, the sprawling estate a testament to the family's wealth and influence. Lily turned to him, her eyes sparkling with gratitude. "Thank you again, Lewis," she said softly. "Come in, please."

Lewis smiled, his expression gentle. "I wish I could, but I have meetings," he said, his voice apologetic. "I'll see you later, okay?"

Lily nodded, understanding. Lewis got out of the car and walked her to the door, his eyes scanning the surroundings before focusing on her. "Take care, Lily," he said, his voice low.

As Lewis drove away, Lily watched him go before turning to enter the mansion. The front door swung open, and she was enveloped in the warm, familiar atmosphere of her home.

Mia, her best friend, was the first to rush toward her, concern etched on her face. "Lily, oh my god, I'm so glad you're okay!" she exclaimed, wrapping her in a tight hug.

Lily smiled, feeling a surge of affection for her friend. As she hugged Mia back, she noticed Robert and Margaret, Ethan's parents, approaching her. Their faces were etched with worry, and Lily's heart swelled with gratitude toward them.

"Lily, dear, we're so relieved you're safe," Margaret said, her voice warm. "We were worried sick about you after what happened last night."

Robert nodded in agreement, his expression serious. "We're glad Lewis was there to help you. How are you feeling?"

Lily smiled, feeling a sense of comfort in their concern. "I'm fine, thank you for asking," she said softly. "Just a bit shaken up."

Robert's and Margaret’s expressions turned somber. "Lily, dear, we're so sorry about what happened last night," Margaret said, her voice filled with regret. "Ethan's behavior was inexcusable. Choosing to save Sarah over you, knowing you can't swim... it's just unacceptable."

Robert nodded in agreement, his face stern. "We're deeply disappointed in him, Lily. He knows how much you mean to us, and to prioritize Sarah over you like that... it's just not right."

Lily's eyes widened slightly, touched by their concern and apology. "Please, don't apologize for him," she said softly. "I'm just glad Lewis was there to help me."

Margaret’s expression softened, and she reached out to touch Lily's arm. "We're apologizing because we know Ethan's behavior was wrong. He should have prioritized your safety above all else. We're going to have a talk with him about this."

But Lily shook her head gently. "No need to talk to him, really. We're no longer husband and wife. You both care about me, and that's enough for me." She smiled softly, feeling a sense of closure and gratitude toward them.