Chapter 72:
Samira rubbed her eyes, struggling to process what she was seeing. But no matter how hard she tried to deny it, the proof was right in front of her.
“You… you…” Samira stuttered, at a complete loss for words.
Elyse, utterly stunned, leaned so close to the phone screen that she was practically nose-to-nose with it.
How was this possible?
Elena was a Ph.D. graduate of Imperial University!
That meant… everything Elyse had said earlier was now utterly ridiculous.
Still, she wasn’t willing to let go of Leopardex!
Quickly, Elyse scrambled for a way to turn the situation around. “Grandma, since both Elena and I have backgrounds in jewelry design, why don’t we settle this with a fair competition to determine who’s best suited to run Leopardex?”
A fair competition?
Bertha considered the suggestion. “That might be a reasonable approach. Elena, what do you think?”
Elena had no interest in Leopardex, but if Elyse wanted to compete, she had no problem playing along.
Her eyelashes fluttered as she answered, utterly indifferent, “Fine.”
Bertha announced, “Leopardex is currently negotiating a deal with Spencer Group. Whoever secures the partnership will take over the company.”
Elena, dressed casually in a white shirt and jeans, enjoyed a peaceful breakfast at the dining table the following morning.
Bertha informed her that she and Elyse were due at Leopardex for work. Upon hearing of Elena’s new job at Leopardex, Jolie’s concern grew. “Elena, I should drive you to Leopardex later.”
Her worry stemmed from Elena’s unfamiliarity with Klathe. The possibility of ill treatment at Leopardex troubled her deeply.
Determined, Jolie resolved to introduce Elena to the management at Leopardex to ensure her daughter’s well-being.
As Elena polished off her last piece of fried egg and dabbed at her lips, she reassured her mother. “Don’t worry, I’m familiar with the route.”
gⱯlnσν𝓮ℓs․cøm, your destination for tales
Despite her reassurance, Jolie’s unease lingered. Nevertheless, Elena was already on her feet, moving toward the exit.
Reluctantly, Jolie agreed, releasing a resigned sigh. “Okay, have the driver take you then.”
The Harper family’s garage housed four new cars, all recent presents for Elena from her father and brothers.
Originally, Elena intended to drive herself, but at Jolie’s insistence, Declan became her chauffeur for the day.
Arriving at Leopardex, Declan asked, “Miss, when should I come back for you?”
Elena checked her watch and replied, “No need. I have dinner plans with a friend.”
She had arranged to meet Lydia, who was also in Klathe, for dinner later that day.
“Very well. I’ll head home now.” Declan acknowledged with respect.
With that, Declan departed from the Leopardex premises.
