Chapter 467 Leave the Troupe
Seeing Lillian on the brink of tears, Ambrose asked, "Is something up?"
"Mr. Kelly, are you heading out? I have something to discuss, but if you're busy..."
Lillian felt like she'd picked the wrong moment. After just playfully teasing Ambrose, bringing up leaving now seemed a bit much.
She wanted to leave quickly and find a more appropriate time to talk.
Ambrose turned and said, "Come in."
Lillian watched as he turned back, pressed her lips, and reluctantly followed him inside.
"Have a seat." Ambrose gestured to the sofa area.
Lillian sat down as Ambrose moved to his desk and picked up the phone.
He instructed his secretary, "Bring in a cup of warm milk."
Lillian was taken aback. "Oh, no, you don't have to do that. I just wanted to say a few words and then leave."
"Hasn't the rehearsal ended? Have a drink to regain some energy. I'd rather not have people think I'm mistreating a pregnant woman."
Lillian had indeed finished rehearsing and hadn't had a chance to drink water. Ambrose's comment made her think twice. She thanked him, and soon the milk arrived.
Lillian downed the milk in almost one gulp.
She set the cup down and glanced at Ambrose, who was sitting across from her with his legs crossed.
"Mr. Kelly."
Meeting Ambrose's gaze, Lillian felt a surge of pressure and hesitated for a moment.
"First time I've seen someone drink milk for courage. You might want to clean up," Ambrose said, leaning forward and handing her a tissue, pointing to the corner of her mouth.
Lillian felt embarrassed again, quickly taking the tissue and dabbing at her face.
Ambrose asked, "Is it the thing you want to talk about that's stressing you out, or is it me?"
Lillian sighed and hurriedly said, "Mr. Kelly, you've been incredibly supportive. You're a great boss, and I'm so sorry. After this performance, I might have to leave the troupe. The troupe will need to find someone to replace me quickly. I'm really sorry for causing such a big inconvenience!"
She stood up and gave Ambrose a deep bow, filled with regret.
She braced herself for his anger. After all, the dance troupe had hired well-known dancers for this production, aiming for massive success with everything from choreography to costumes.
Ambrose had given her the opportunity to join, and now she was asking to leave.
Lillian's face flushed with embarrassment, but Ambrose remained calm, showing no hint of reproach.
"Is it because the wedding didn't go as planned?"
Lillian gave a sheepish smile. "Sorry, I'm actually seeking a divorce. Anyway, I plan to leave in about two weeks. I have one more favor to ask—could you keep my departure confidential and not replace me in the promotional material for the show before I leave?"
As she made the request, Lillian felt a wave of shame and discomfort.
Ambrose studied her for a moment, then tapped the back of the sofa with his fingers. "So, it sounds like you're planning to slip away quietly? Sit down and explain things clearly. If I'm going to help you, I need to understand the full picture. It's only fair I know what I'm getting into."
Ten minutes later, Lillian left Ambrose's office, feeling much lighter.
She changed into her clothes in the dressing room, and as she stepped out of the dance troupe's building, she noticed a familiar Bentley parked at the entrance.
Jackson, clad in a dark gray coat, was standing by the car. As soon as he saw her, he strode over with purpose.
For the past few days, he had been picking her up and dropping her off personally, a gesture she had grown accustomed to.
But today felt different.
With plans and arrangements swirling in her mind, she couldn't help but feel her palms sweating as Jackson approached, and her steps slowed involuntarily.
Lost in her thoughts, Lillian barely noticed Jackson reaching her until he gently took her hands in his.
"What's wrong? Your hands are freezing, and you're sweating," he said, his concern evident.