Shrouded Affections Winning Back My CEO Wife

Chapter 4

Chapter 4:

“The responsibility to purchase a house lies with you two,” Eileen responded. Judie’s eyes brimmed with anger. The moment she realized Eileen was about to leave, she caught Eileen by the arm, her voice tinged with disbelief.

“Can you even say that?”

“Are you aware of your real family ties? You lavish care on a stepmother with your money, yet refuse to purchase a home for your own brother? Think about it. That woman’s time is short, and soon, you’ll find yourself leaning on Roderick, your brother!”

Eileen’s lips curled into a mocking smile as she replied, “Lean on him? Isn’t it supposed to be the other way around? I think you’re mistaken. The money I earn is mine to spend as I please. If you want to keep your job here, mind your manners.”

With a flick of her wrist, she freed herself from Judie’s grasp and left, her expression icy. A shiver of fear crept through Judie. After all, Eileen’s influence was second only to Bryan’s in the company.

But there was Eileen, with a cushy job under Bryan, driving a good car, dwelling in a spacious home, and even tending to her sick stepmother. Yet, she turned a blind eye to her brother’s situation. It just wasn’t right!

With that notion in mind, Judie bolted to the restroom to call Roderick. They had to convince Eileen to buy them a house.

Meanwhile, Eileen returned to her desk, banishing all distractions, and her productivity soared. Earlier, Vivian’s interruption meant Eileen hadn’t completed her tasks on time. Now, as the office emptied for lunch, Eileen remained in her seat to work.

Roderick called twice. She ignored them both, so engrossed in her work that lunchtime passed unnoticed. Soon, it was evening.

Her dedication had not gone unrecognized. Vivian had remarked that her diligence indeed outshone many.

gαℓησν𝒆𝓁s․cо𝗺, your storytelling home

“Isn’t it time for you to get off work, Eileen?” Vivian’s inquiry broke through the silence.

Eileen offered a faint smile, lifting her eyes, which inadvertently met Bryan’s. He stood casually, one hand resting in his pocket, his gaze briefly meeting hers before shifting to the papers in front of her.

Leaning into Bryan with playful ease, Vivian teased, “I’m whisking Bryan away early. Maybe you’ll get some rest.” Then, she turned to Bryan, “Are Eileen’s tasks urgent? If not, perhaps she could tackle them tomorrow and get off work early today.”

Bryan opened his mouth, his voice calm but clear, “They’re not urgent.”

“Could she then knock off earlier?” Vivian gently tugged at Bryan’s sleeve.

Eileen’s lips parted, yet no words escaped her.

until tomorrow.” Bryan tapped the desk lightly. The gesture seemed

her chance to leave since it had been Vivian who had convinced Bryan to do so. Somehow, she felt a tug to stay behind, to toil away into the night. Yet, she offered a nod

course. Thank you,

away, pausing only to give a playful wink in

Had they ever stepped

early did little to

stepmother, Ruby Curtis. Memories flooded back unbidden. Ten-year-old Eileen had been the quiet spectator of a bitter

mother had left with Roderick. Visits had ceased until two years prior, spurred by news of Eileen’s success, when they came to seek her aid. Her father, unable to keep Roderick, had grown distant and

had made plans for her future early on.

on time, Eileen. There’s something we need to discuss,” called out Dr.

offered a smile. “Please, Dr. White,

a backward glance at the ward, Emilio said in a hushed voice, “We

almost seventy, his age evident in the sparse hair that crowned his head. Inside the office, Eileen remained standing as Emilio

that can treat your mother’s illness.

for her dedication, had prompted Emilio to share this immediately. Eileen knitted

“And… the cost?”

Emilio replied. After a pause, he added with candor, “The reality is stark. Without the treatment, she has, at best, two months

precious years—a decision she once would have made without a second thought. But now, Vivian’s return and the shaky ground of her marriage to Bryan cast a shadow over her financial security. The future held no promise of

May I take a few days

such a chance

into Ruby’s ward. It was no suite, yet it was more than

here? Why didn’t you tell me in advance?”

would be scheduled in advance due to her demanding job, and Ruby would always wait for her

noting the other occupant of the room—a woman in the bloom of her life yet facing the trial of breast cancer, surrounded by a somber

Eileen greeted them politely, acknowledging the shared space. Leaving work early was a luxury for Eileen,

other patient offered a nod in response, staying silent. Eileen unfolded the cot as Ruby’s

like you’ve lost some weight again. You

trend these days, isn’t it?”

time, and the scar on her forehead spoke of a past fall due to

treatment. It’s too much for

a patient from the Garret family she knew well, who was about ten years younger

too. It’s incurable, and it’s causing you so much pain. Just promise to look after Bailee. That’ll be