A Second Chance at Forever novel (Eleanor and Bernard)

Chapter 5

Sophie briefly introduced herself, and after exchanging pleasantries, she accompanied Bernard and Rosita to the CEO’s office.

Jeannie craned her neck to catch a glimpse of the trio, her face displaying unmistakable envy. “On her very first day, Mr. Laurence is personally escorting her! She must be his favorite!”

Amanda placed a comforting hand on Jeannie’s shoulder and explained, “You’re missing the point, dear. She has just returned and assumed the CEO position, which might raise doubts among VitaLife Global’s shareholders. Mr. Laurence escorting her is a way to demonstrate that she has the full support of the Laurence Group.”

Jeannie rested her hands on her chin, still feeling envious, and mused, “And Mr. Laurence is clearing the path for his wife so swiftly as well. How romantic!”

Amanda, full of envy herself, said, “If she wasn’t the chairman’s daughter, there’s no way the most powerful man in A City would be interested in her.”

Jeannie shook her head, “But Ms. Ratliff is impressive in her own right. She’s well–educated, attractive, and so on. Speaking of looks…”

Jeannie glanced at Eleanor, “I noticed that Eleanor looks a bit like the new CEO!”

Amanda leaned in for a closer look, and agreed, “Yeah, you’re right. But I think Eleanor’s even prettier!”

Eleanor, looking pale, muttered “Don’t talk nonsense,” and walked to the bathroom.

Seeing Eleanor’s frail figure, Jeannie was worried, “What’s wrong with Eleanor?”

Amanda let out a derisive snort. “Perhaps she’s envious that she resembles the CEO but doesn’t share the CEO’s destiny!”

Jeannie fell silent, opting not to engage in conversation with Amanda, recognizing her two–faced nature.

the bathroom, swiftly taking some

her face with cold water

and gaunt, with hollow cheeks

bathroom door swung open, and Sophie entered, gracefully striding in her high

face boasted a flawless, rosy complexion, and she exuded

and intelligence, something Eleanor

met Sophie’s gaze, she suddenly felt inferior, quickly lowered her head, grabbed a paper towel, and turned to leave.

suddenly

if she had

the one being treated as a stand–in and a victim, yet in front of Sophie, she still

said with a gentle smile, “You’re an assistant

her panic, nodded, “Yes.”

at her watch and said, “There’s still half an hour before I have to hold the general shareholders‘ meeting. Could you make me a cup of coffee and bring it to the

was still in the office but eventually agreed to help as she was

appreciation, Sophie left with her head held high and a

Eleanor looked like a knock–off version

stood there, dazed, before pulling herself together and heading

chairman’s preferences, hoping that Jeannie and

had already been called to prepare the conference room, so she had to deliver it

“Come in.”

voice came from

be embarrassing to go inside, hesitating for a while before finally mustering the courage to open

saw Sophie sitting on Bernard’s