Chapter 4: Treading Lightly

The car's overhead mirror tilted slightly, reflecting Ari's sharp gaze.

With a scoff, she leaned back against the seat, one hand casually tapping the steering wheel. "I swear, your family is stuck in a feudal drama," she remarked, eyes shifting to Liliana beside her.

Liliana didn't respond immediately, only lowering her lashes slightly, her fingers brushing over the sleeves of her blouse.

As the car slowed to a stop, she stepped out gracefully, the hem of her embroidered top falling neatly over her long skirt. The soft fabric swayed with her movements, tempering her elegance with an effortless charm that naturally drew attention.

Ari stretched her arms and motioned ahead. "Let's go. I just discovered this amazing place, and you're the first person I thought to bring."

Liliana followed her lead, her lips curving into a faint smile. "Then I'll count myself lucky."

The waiter led them to a quiet corner, and as they settled into their seats, Ari leaned forward with a grin. "My treat today, so don't hold back."

Liliana arched a brow as she picked up the menu with a light chuckle. "Then I won't be polite. Thanks."

Before long, rows of exquisite dishes were served, their enticing aroma filling the space. Liliana initially ate leisurely with quiet satisfaction, but as the meal continued, her pace naturally quickened.

Ari, caught up in conversation, barely noticed when she reached for another bite–only to see the plates nearly cleared. She blinked.

She set her spoon down with a sharp clink. "Enough, enough! Do you want to get in trouble later?" Ari exclaimed, half-scolding and half-worried.

Liliana's movements slowed just a fraction.

"Where's your medicine?" Ari pressed, concern tightening her features.

Lilian reached for her glass, cradling it loosely as she took a sip. Setting it down, she reached for a napkin, dabbing her lips with an unhurried grace.

"Don't worry, I'm fine," she said lightly. "just a little full." She leaned back slightly and gently patted her stomach as if to reassure both Ari and herself.

Ari eyes her skeptically. "Are you sure you don't feel anything else?"

Liliana gave a small, assuring nod. But within minutes her composure wavered.

The sudden clatter of porcelain echoed through the restaurant. Liliana hastily set her teacup down, her fingers curled against the table in restraint, tension creeping into her grip. Cold sweat formed along her temples, and the color drained subtly from her face.

"Washroom..." she mumbled, barely coherent before she abruptly stood, pressing a hand over her mouth as she hurried away.

"Lili–wait for me!" Ari snapped out of her daze, quickly gathering both their belongings after settling the payment, before rushing after her.

Liliana stumbled into the washroom, barely making it to the sink before the sound of retching filled the space.

Ari followed closely behind, wincing. "Are you okay?" she asked, voice laced with worry.

Liliana didn't answer, gripping the edge of the counter as another wave hit her. Ari stepped forward, rubbing slow circles on her back in comfort.

"You–do you have a death wish? Knowing your stomach can't handle this, yet you still–" Ari scolded, exasperated. She quickly handed her a napkin. shaking her head.

Liliana took it with a weak chuckle. "Well, feeling full was nice while it lasted."

Before Ari could snap back, Liliana leaned forward again, her body tensing as she retched once more. 

Ari sighed, crouching beside her and gently patting her back. "Unbelievable."

By the time Liliana finally straightened, her complexion was still pale, but her breathing had steadied. She took her time fixing her makeup in the mirror while Ari rummaged through her bag with practiced familiarity, pulling out a small pill bottle.

"Here, Eat this."

Liliana turned, lips parting as if to argue, but Ari was faster. She popped a pill into Liliana's mouth before she could speak.

"No excuses," Ari said firmly.

Liliana could only swallow it helplessly.

–

They spent the next few hours together, visiting an exhibition, strolling through boutiques, and lingering over coffee. Eventually, as evening approached. Ari pulled up in front of the Hill estate.

Before Liliana could step out, Ari gave her a once-over and sighed dramatically. "looking this pale, are you sure they'll let you out next time?"

Liliana smiled softly. "We'll see about that. Bye-Bye."

Ari reached for a quick hug and held onto her for a moment longer, her tone light but carrying a hint of sincerity. "Don't hesitate to tell me whenever you want to go out," she said, half-joking and half-seriously. "Save yourself from self-torture in that house."

Liliana let out a soft laugh, her gaze flickering, a fleeting emotion passing through her eyes. "Alright, I'll remember that. I should go now."

She took a few steps back, giving a small wave before turning away. 

The afternoon sunlight cast a warm glow over her, painting her figure in soft gold, the cool breeze brushed against her skin. But as she stepped past the grand gates, her expression dimmed, her steps steady yet unhurried as if walking into the inevitable.

The Hill residence sprawled grandly, with the main mansion towering over several smaller villas, each discreetly guarded.

As Liliana walked along the designated path, her gaze flickered briefly towards one particular villa, its security tighter than the rest. Without pausing, she shifted her attention back ahead.

The mansion looked livelier than usual. A clear indication that her eldest uncle had returned from his trip.

And sure enough, standing near the entrance was his second daughter–Seraphina Hill.

Unlike her usual arrogant presence, she looked noticeably drained. But exhaustion didn't dull her sharp tongue. The moment she spotted Liliana, her lips curled in disdain.

"I see you're still playing the obedient little fourth lady," Seraphina remarked lazily. "Must be exhausting keeping up the act."

Liliana halted, she met her gaze with quiet ease, and her expression maintained the warmth. "Welcome back, Sister Seraphina," she said, her tone soft and perfectly polite.

Seraphina scoffed, but Liliana had already turned away, continuing towards the entrance as if the exchange had never happened.