“I’ll go. But let me make this clear first–Philip isn’t exactly someone you want to
cross.”
“You all spoke so carelessly in front of him today. He’s probably furious already. If this deal falls through, I’ll never work with them again.”.
With that, she strode straight out.
Herbert suddenly called after her.
“There’s a gift box at reception downstairs–the Duncan family sent it specially for Mr. Alfred. On your way back from the hospital, drop by Hopkins Group and deliver it. And while you’re there, mention the project…”
What a lovely “by the way.”
Celeste didn’t bother to reply. She pulled the door open and walked out.
The door banged shut, cutting off whatever Herbert was about to say.
Beverly scowled. “Dad, look at how she talks to you. So rude!”
Herbert snorted. “You’d better hurry up and cozy up to young Mr. Hopkins. Once the Hopkins Group changes hands, we won’t have to put up with her anymore.”
Outside, Philip was tending to Viola, but he could hear everything going on inside the office.
He had come here today, after all, to try and make things right with Celeste.
He didn’t want to see the partnership collapse.
“Celly, I’ll take Viola to the hospital first. After that-”
“I’m sorry, Celeste. I shouldn’t have had an attack right now. I’ve ruined your meeting with Philip–I’m so sorry. It’s all Philip’s fault for worrying about me too much…”
Celeste almost wanted to applaud Viola’s performance. “Wow, even with an asthma attack, you can still talk so much? That’s a medical miracle.”
Philip’s brow furrowed deeply.
“Since you séem fine now, I don’t need to go to the hospital with you. I have other things to do, so I’ll be off.”
Celeste couldn’t be bothered with them anymore. She clicked away in her heels,
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Chapter 55
ready to leave.
Philip tried to catch up, but Viola grabbed his sleeve in a death grip.
“I–I can’t breathe, Philip. Please, help me…
“Viola!”
Startled, Philip scooped her into his arms and dashed toward the elevator.
Inside the elevator, Celeste saw Philip running toward her, Viola cradled in his arms, calling out.
“Hold the door! Viola–she needs-”
Celeste calmly pressed the ‘close‘ button.
The doors slid shut, the elevator started down.
Irma jumped, startled.
“Vice President, that girl seemed to be in real trouble just now…”
“Don’t worry. With Philip there, she’s not going to die.”
Viola had used her asthma excuse more than once.
The irony…
Back when she’d sponsored Viola, Celeste had known about the asthma. She’d even done her homework, learning all about the condition.
She could tell the difference between a real attack and a performance.
Philip, blinded by love, couldn’t.
Looking back now…
Philip loved Viola more than he’d ever loved her.
Celeste’s breathing turned a bit ragged. Irma started to say something comforting.
The elevator doors opened/ Celeste stepped out, instantly regaining decisive composure.
usual
“Go handle your work. I’m heading out.” She gave Irma her instructions, collected the package from reception, and made for Hopkins Group.
At Hopkins Group, Celeste walked straight to the front desk.
19:45
Chapter 55
When the receptionist heard her request, she replied apologetically, “I’m sorry, but you can’t go up without an appointment. You’re welcome to sign in, though.”
Celeste wasn’t surprised. She took out her phone, considering whether to message
Alfred.
Behind her, Beverly’s mocking voice rang out.
“Oh, what’s wrong, sis? Can’t get in?”
Startled, Celeste’s finger slipped, and the message sent by accident.
She turned. Beverly was standing there in a black–and–red cocktail dress, bold makeup, towering heels, and a self–satisfied smirk as she lifted her chin at the receptionist.
