Chapter 329

Riyana’s gaze drifted across the hall. Lily noticed the change immediately. “Hey,” she said quietly. “You sure you’re okay?” Riyana hesitated, then nodded. “I will be.” Lily studied her for a moment. “Did someone say something to you?” Riyana shook her head. “Not something I want to ruin tonight with.” Lily didn’t push. That was one of the reasons Riyana trusted her. Lily knew when to ask and when to stay silent. They stopped before another painting. A peaceful one this time. Soft pastels. A woman sitting by a window, sunlight touching her face. “This one feels lonely,” Lily said. Riyana nodded. “But calm.” “Sometimes calm is just loneliness that learned to behave,” Lily replied. Riyana glanced at her. “You’ve been getting philosophical.” Lily smirked. “Hanging around artists does that.” There was a pause. “Riyana,” Lily said again, more seriously this time. “About the money. Don’t let it sit in your head like a debt. You’re not borrowing from a stranger. You’re borrowing from me.” Riy