FULL NOVELXO Chapter CHAPTER 71
71 Schemes and Suspicions
Emma, caught in the whirlwind of her friends‘ gossip and speculation, set Maryann’s luxurious gift box aside, looking at Jada and Bonnie with a mix of exasperation and resolve. “Can you stop looking at me like that? There’s nothing going on between me and anyone else. I’m not planning to get involved with someone new. I’ve just freed myself from a complicated marriage, and I’m not ready to jump into another relationship.”
Jada, still holding the box, glanced at Emma skeptically. “But with all this talk about Maxwell and now Maryann’s photo… it’s all quite intriguing, don’t you think?”
Emma sighed, trying to brush off the implications. “Intriguing or not, it’s irrelevant to me. I’m focusing on my career and personal growth right now.”
Maryann, having observed the exchange, stepped in. “I understand, Emma. But I thought you might like these profiles, even if just for a read.” She then handed Emma two smaller, red velvet boxes.” And I got you these rubies and a sapphire ring. They’re more your style.”
Opening the boxes, Emma was struck by the beauty of the jewels. The rubies glowed with an alluring light, and the sapphire ring was elegantly captivating.
“Thank you, Maryann! They’re beautiful,” Emma said, her voice softening.
The conversation shifted to the impending return of Emma’s childhood friends, the twins. Bonnie teased Emma about considering Desmond as a potential partner. Emma chuckled at the suggestion.” Desmond and I have always been just friends. Let’s not make things complicated.”
The evening was filled with laughter and stories about old times and Maryann’s recent film success. However, their joyous gathering took an unexpected turn. A paparazzo snapped a photo of Bonnie and Maryann leaving together, leading to rumors online about their supposed cohabitation.
The next day, the story went viral. Jada showed Emma the post, and they both shared a resigned chuckle. “Looks like Bonnie’s going to have to deal with this now,” Emma said, half–amused, half- concerned.
Meanwhile, at Alex’s company, his assistant Collins was dealing with a tricky situation involving Lillian, Alex’s sister. Aware that Lillian often stirred up trouble, Alex had asked Collins to keep an eye on her during her visit.
Lillian approached Collins with a request, her eyes filled with hope. “Collins, there’s something I need your help with. If you make it happen, I’ll ensure Alex gives you a raise.”
Collins, accustomed to handling Lillian’s whims, felt a headache brewing. Each time he had resolved one of Lillian’s issues, it felt like he had aged years. Now, facing yet another request, he braced himself for what was to come.
“I can’t help without Alex’s approval, Lillian. Why don’t you ask him directly?” Collins suggested, trying to deflect her request.
71 Schemes and Suspicions
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Lillian’s expression darkened. “If you won’t help me, I’ll tell Alex to fire you!”
Collins, unfazed by her threat, stood his ground. “I can only assist with Alex’s permission. Discuss it with him first.”
Lillian persisted, her voice softening. “Can’t you just tell me if Alex needs a date for the charity gala? I want to go with him.
Collins hesitated. He knew Alex rarely attended such events and doubted he would bring Liberty, his current companion. “You should check directly with Alex. He might agree to it.”
Lillian, seeing an opportunity, decided to pursue the matter with Alex. But her real intent was to stir up trouble for Emma at the gala..
After leaving Lillian, Collins felt uneasy about her intentions. He suspected she was plotting something against Emma and decided to inform Alex.
Interrupting Alex’s meeting, Collins whispered his concerns to him. Alex’s mood shifted instantly upon hearing Collins‘ suspicions.
“Keep an eye on Lillian. Don’t let her leave my office until I’m done here,” Alex instructed, his voice.
low and serious.
Everyone else in the conference room was left wondering about the sudden change in Alex’s demeanor. The air was thick with tension as Alex’s thoughts turned to protecting Emma from whatever scheme Lillian was concocting.