See You Again

| Three

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A person sliced through the water with powerful, steady strokes, each movement a release from the relentless stress of running his company. The pool in his mansion was his sanctuary, a place where he could find solace from the pressures of his world. The setting sun bathed the water in a golden light, making it shimmer and highlighting the droplets that clung to his well-defined, half-naked body. The young maids who worked at the mansion couldn't help but steal glances, whispering and giggling amongst themselves as they admired his striking physique.

For a moment, everything felt perfect. Eden floated on his back, eyes closed, savoring the peace and quiet. Then, a sharp chime shattered the tranquility. He sighed, knowing that his moment of peace had come to an end. Turning around, Eden swam to the edge of the pool, hoisting himself out with a practiced ease. Water cascaded off his body in rivulets that caught the dying light. He reached for the towel and his phone, assuming it was a message from Lily, whose texts always brightened his day.

But as he read the breaking news alert, his relaxed expression turned to one of horror:

"Breaking News: Attempted Assassination on Actress Lily, narrowly Escapes Fatal Bullet."

His heart stopped. The peaceful world he had been enjoying mere seconds ago was obliterated by those words. Panic surged through him as he hastily dried off, throwing on a shirt and pants with lightning speed. The maids, sensing the urgency in his movements, watched in stunned silence as he grabbed his phone and dialed Jack, his trusted secretary.

"Jack," Eden's voice was sharp, a mix of command and panic, "I need you to find out who was behind the attempt on Lily's life. Now."

There was no time for pleasantries or explanations. He hung up immediately, trusting Jack to mobilize his resources swiftly. Eden's blue Lamborghini roared to life as he sped out of the driveway, the engine growling like a beast unleashed. The normally short drive to the hotel felt interminably long, every traffic light and slow driver a personal affront to his urgency.

Upon arriving at the hotel, Eden barely registered parking his car. He sprinted inside, his eyes scanning the chaotic scene of police officers, hotel security, and a crowd of onlookers. His heart pounded in his chest as he searched desperately for Lily.

The lobby was a frenzy of activity, with reporters trying to capture the unfolding drama and onlookers murmuring in shock. Eden pushed past the throngs, his gaze darting from one group to another, searching for that familiar silhouette.

There she was, surrounded by a protective circle of bodyguards, with Aurora and Ray by her side. Relief and a flood of emotions surged through him as he pushed through the throng of people, his sole focus on reaching her.

"Lily!" he called out, his voice breaking with a mix of fear and relief. He pulled her into his arms, holding her tightly, as if he could shield her from all the dangers of the world.

Lily, initially surprised by the sudden embrace, relaxed into his familiar warmth. "Eden," she whispered, her voice filled with relief. "I'm okay. It was close, but I'm fine."

Eden pulled back just enough to look into her eyes, his hands gently cupping her face. "I'll make sure whoever did this pays," he vowed, his voice trembling with a mix of anger and protectiveness.

She searched his gaze, and he could see the gratitude mingled with fear. "I don't want you to put yourself in danger because of me," she said softly, her expression earnest.