Echoes of Unrequited Love

Chapter 49

“Mrs. Hilary, if there’s nothing else, I'll just...”

“How come you didn’t bring Cecilia along to the party today?”

The icy line popped out of the receiver, and in the blink of an eye, | recognized Hogan’s voice.

Thinking back to the wealthy ladies who stood with Hilary earlier that evening, | quickly figured out what was going on.

It seemed that Hogan wasn’t just trying to get Cecilia into the high society scene; he wanted Hilary to take her under her wing and show her the ropes.

“She was off work by the time our gathering started. If she’s going to be late, might as well not come at all.” Hilary’s response was quite blunt.

It was no secret that she was not Cecilia’s biggest fan.

Since it was a private conversation, it didn’t feel right for me to eavesdrop, so | discreetly hung up the phone.

The next day at the office, | shared the experience | got from the comic expo with Wallis, and then we discussed the team building event.

“Let's hit up a B&B in the nearby mountain. Nice scenery, and we can have a bonfire party or soak in a hot spring in the evening. Chill out and unwind.”

We were setting off tomorrow morning.

| had no objections. When it came to having fun, Wallis had the final say.

She basically toured the whole country in the first six months after her divorce. Not to mention she was a pro at finding team building spots around Rivertown,

Once decided, she summoned everyone to the conference room and announced the good news. Everyone was pretty stoked, except Cecilia who sat quietly on the side, unreadable.

| figured it might be related to Hilary standing her up on purpose but didn’t dwell on it.

In the afternoon, Wallis suddenly called me into her office with a mischievous look — a rare expression for her. “What's up?”

Wallis flashed her phone book, saying “Assistant Zachary just called me.”

“What did he say?”

“He mentioned that Mr. Zade got wind of our team building plans and has a better suggestion.

Turns out. Hogan hoped to merge our team building with his company’s...

He’d bring along his own secretarial team and himself.

And he generously switched the venue from the nearby mountain to Honto Abbey up north of Rivertown, with Rainbow Capital footing the bill.

| was baffled. “What’s Honto Abbey?” Wallis put it simply. “In a nutshell, one night costs this much.” She flashed all ten fingers, and | went silent.

“Assistant Zachary also said that the cold winds at the nearby mountain at night aren’t ideal for team building.” Wallis added with a smirk, “Guess Hogan doesn’t want to freeze his little kitty

cat.*

That's when it clicked.

Cecilia was probably still in her period.

Hogan’s doing a bang-up job as a boyfriend, making us look a bit inconsiderate.

“Xaviera, what do you think?”

Twirling my pen, | said in a singsong voice, “Since Mr. Zade’s feeling generous, who are we to decline?” Wallis paused, her gaze drifting to my neck and said with a hint of pride. “Glad you see it that way, Xaviera.” Shortly after, Wallis updated the team building news in the group chat.

When she mentioned Honto Abbey, the chat exploded with excitement, everyone thanking Hogan.

But Hogan didn’t respond.

Until Cecilia chimed in with the crowd, and Hogan suddenly appeared out of nowhere.

“Remember to bring extra clothes.”

He was thoughtful enough to remind Cecilia to pack more for our overnight stay at the estate.

In full view of everyone, he showed his care without any pretense.

It was clear as day that our golden ticket to the swanky Honto Abbey was all thanks to Cecilia’s clout. At the end of the day, | saw Cecilia enter Wallis‘ office.

“President Lott, | won’t be leaving with you guys in the morning.”

The office door was open, and everyone heard loud and clear.

Curiously, Wallis asked. “What's up? Not feeling well?”

Cecilia shook her head, “Hogan said he’d give me a ride on the way, and | couldn't really say

no.”

So, she had a private chauffeur.

“Got it.” Wallis replied coolly, “head back early and rest up, see you at Honto Abbey tomorrow” Cecilia nodded in agreement.

“Oh, and,” Wallis took a sip of her tea, looking straight at the young girl, and said with a smile, “I should really thank you on behalf of the whole company, Director Irwin.”

Cecilia’s voice was so soft it could melt, “President Lott, you’re too kind. Hogan Just wants. everyone to enjoy themselves, it’s not just for me.”Belonging © NôvelDram/a.Org.

Wallis‘ fingers, twirling the teacup lid, couldn’t help but flicker.