Page 52 of Petals and Fangs

“Discretion is important. Our clients highly value their privacy, and we must respect that.”

“Important enough to avoid any public scrutiny? What exactly are you protecting here?”

“Lily, our work is sensitive. Our clients' safety and confidentiality are paramount. We really need to go,” he says and walks towards the ladder, ready to leave, but the way he avoids me makes me want to ask him more questions, even the one I decided not to.

“That's the thing. Not only are your products insanely expensive, but not just anyone can get them.”

“Well, that is the main reason why the company is so profitable, Lily.”

“And the storage conditions for your products—they're highly unusual. What are you dealing with that requires such specific handling?”

“Easy one. Our products are delicate and must be maintained under strict conditions to ensure their effectiveness. It’s nothing to worry about, Lily, really.”

I follow him, not entirely convinced, but aware that I pushed as far as I could for now.

“Well, okay,” I say, trying to hide my disappointment.

“I know what you are thinking,” Ethan says, pausing as he steps down the ladder.

“Do you?” I look up at him, his strong figure outlined in the bright sunlight.

“I do.”

“And? Am I being ridiculous?”

“You aren't. You have the right to ask every question you have in mind. I just didn't think you'd have that much,” he replies, his tone softer.

“Well, that is how it is,” I say with a shrug, trying to sound nonchalant.

“I know, Lily. I know,” he replies. He turns around and grabs my hand, climbing down the ladder, and heading to the car.

The weather is turning gloomy, with rays of sunlight peeking out of the clouds. The drive to the office is quiet and filled with tension. Ethan seems distracted, and I don't push him further. I want to enjoy this time with him and the silence that fills the air.

“Lily, can I ask you something off the record?” he finally speaks.

I glance at him. His jaw is clenched, and his grip is tight on the steering wheel.

“Of course.”

“When you mentioned how secretive the company is, do you think I am doing the right thing by keeping it secretive?”

“I am no one to decide for you.”

“You are here in the car with me, Lily Snow. We were just at our favorite place on earth, so yes, your opinion matters to me.”

“Maybe some things are kept secret for a reason. It's not always about hiding something bad.”

“It's more than that. At Rothschild Pharmaceuticals, we just handle things differently.”

“Like you've said, Ethan. You just want to meet the needs of your clients, but I can't help but wonder, how far are you going to achieve that?”

“Well, our clients do have unique needs, so it is our job to meet those needs, no matter how unconventional they might seem.”

“Unconventional is one thing, but being the FDA's target is a whole new level.”

“I know. They will start requesting documents soon enough.”

“What does that mean for your company?”

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