Editorial discretion

The publisher controls whether the link belongs, where it appears and how it is described. That decision can arise from reporting, citation, expert contribution, a useful resource or another editorial reason.

Guest posts can contain editorial links

A contributed article can legitimately cite sources and useful destinations. The important question is whether a link is there because it serves the article or because compensation requires it.

Paid is a different relationship

If money, goods or services are exchanged for a link or post containing a link, Google's published guidance treats that relationship differently and recommends qualification.

Do not confuse labels with outcomes

Calling something “editorial” does not make it so. Look at how the link was obtained and whether the publisher exercised real discretion.