"I’m doing fine," Lillian said, her voice dropping an octave. "Master is just sleeping. He’ll wake up eventually."
Karina caught the underlying grief in her tone and offered a gentle word of comfort. "You’re right. Leonard is going to be okay. I have absolute faith in your skills; I know you’ll bring him back."
Lillian took a deep breath, deliberately steering the conversation away from the pain. "Is something going on at the company?"
"Right—look at me, I almost forgot the actual reason I called," Karina said, getting back to business. "The groundbreaking ceremony for Ryan’s project is next week. He wants a final confirmation from you, and there are several other corporate matters that require your executive decision."
Lillian went quiet for a moment of reflection before responding, "I understand." They chatted for a few more minutes about minor details before ending the call.
Standing nearby, Fenton asked tentatively, "Miss, are you leaving?"
Lillian stood up and walked into the center of the courtyard, gazing out at the distant, mist-shrouded peaks. "Yes. It’s time to go back."
Her battlefield was out there, after all. This tranquil life was meant only for a brief respite. She knew her master would much rather see her soaring through the sky; that was the version of her that made him proudest.
After giving her final instructions, Lillian looked at the two elderly caretakers. "Keep this place in perfect order. Make sure Master’s books are brought out to air whenever it’s sunny, and don't let the medicinal herbs get damp."
Fenton’s eyes welled up as he nodded. "I understand. Don’t you worry, Miss. I’ll keep everything exactly as it should be for his return."
Lillian stepped forward and gave the man who had watched her grow up a brief embrace. "Believe me, everything will go back to the way it was." She turned and headed for the gates.
Louis flushed slightly, giving an embarrassed smile. "You and the Master were gone for over two weeks with no word at all. It’s only natural to worry."
He remembered the day Sebastian had returned to the villa before leaving again—his face had been a mask of stone, radiating a lethal chill. He hadn't said a word, only ordered the helicopter to be prepped. Louis hadn't dared to ask questions then, but after two weeks of silence from both of them, he had been beside himself with anxiety.
Lillian gave him a reassuring smile. "It's all over now. Aren't we both standing here in one piece? Besides, even if you don't trust me, you should trust your Master. He’s so formidable—who would dare cross him, right?"
Sebastian looked down at the girl with pure adoration. He reached out and gave her nose a playful pinch. "I didn't realize I was so impressive in your eyes. If that’s true, then who is the one who constantly defies me and provokes me without a care for her own safety? Hmm?" The low, melodic tilt of his voice was devastatingly charming.
Lillian gave a nervous little laugh. "Uh... you know, long-distance travel is just so exhausting. I think I’ll go upstairs and rest now!" She made a hasty retreat toward the elevator.

Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Rewrite Her Thrilling Life (Lillian and Sebastian)