My Stand-In Groom Is A Secret Tycoon by Lydia Pierce

Chapter 21

After the pantry incident, Audrey kept managing her work like it was no big deal. It was almost quitting time when she used the intercom to call Emily into her office. "Hey, Ms. Rhodes, you wanted to see me?" Emily asked as she walked in..

"Yeah. I just wanted to let you know I won't be at the evening potluck. They've been putting in a lot of effort lately, so entertain them for me, will you?" Audrey replied. With everything that had happened, she thought her presence might send people into a frenzy.

"Got it, I've already sorted everything out, Emily confirmed with a nod

Audrey felt a wave of relief wash over her, glad that Emily had it all under control. "Great, then you're free to go."

But Emily stayed put, lips pressed together in hesitation. After a moment, she spoke up, "Ms. Rhodes, can I leave with you?"

At first, Audrey assumed Emily just wanted a ride home, since they used to live in the same area and had carpooled a few times She shook her head, a hint of regret in her voice. "I don't live with the Rhodes family anymore, so it's really out of my way for you."

meant leaving the office together. Ms. Rhodes,

now that I'm no longer the daughter of the Rhodes family. Why would you want to follow me? You'd be better off here." It hit her then-Audrey hadn't really considered that. Eliza didn't know much yet,

at the company. It felt like a waste

the way. I don't want to leave you to assist someone who just takes credit for your work." Emily didn't hold back, making it clear how she felt about Eliza. She knew deep down that Rhodes Enterprises thrived thanks to

deep breath and confidently said, "Ms. Rhodes, I'm not scared of getting a little tired. I can handle the struggle. Even

Emily's words. Just because Emily claimed she could endure hardships

think it over, Audrey replied, keeping things open-ended. There's still some time before the Brightview Group program wraps up, so consider that

She had her strategy ready and was already mapping out her exit plan. But if she brought Emily along, she'd have to rethink everything from scratch. Emily nodded eagerly and said, "That sounds good, Ms. Rhodes. I'll wait for your answer. And just so you know, I didn't rush into this. I'm totally committed. With that, Emily left the

to darken. Audrey wrapped up her last email and closed her laptop. She grabbed her jacket from the chair, ready to call

the day's events, and

trouble for her future outside the company.

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