The Second Life of a Discarded Heiress

Chapter 85

That night, Novella Publishing was alive with laughter and cheer. What was supposed to be a late-night overtime slog had, thanks to Edith, transformed into a company party.

At the karaoke bar, Edith found herself at the center of attention, surrounded by colleagues who had always kept her at arm's length. Now, one after another, they crowded around, raising their glasses to toast her with a sudden warmth she knew wasn't genuine.

Edith saw right through it. If it weren't for her landing the Obsidian deal with that industry heavyweight, none of them would be fawning over her like this.

Even the company owner, along with every manager and executive, had shown up tonight-a clear sign of just how much her achievement mattered.

In all her twenty-something years, Edith had never felt so triumphant. It was as if she'd stepped straight out of the pages of a feel-good novel and into the starring role herself. Despite the thrill bubbling up inside her, she managed to keep her expression cool and composed.

Just then, the CEO made her way over, glass in hand.

It was Edith's first time meeting the big boss face-to-face, and she couldn't help but tense up, just a little. "Ms. Wendy," she greeted her, voice careful.

"Edith, we owe you everything," Wendy said sincerely, pouring Edith a generous glass of wine. "If you hadn't secured Obsidian, this company might not have survived."

Novella Publishing had been her father's pride and joy. After his death, her uncles and other relatives began circling, eager to wrest control from her and undermining her at every turn.

Lately, the company's finances had been on the edge-but Edith's Obsidian contract had been a lifeline, bringing in desperately needed funds.

just

have chosen any editor, but they picked you.

she hadn't done anything

team met earlier. We want you to take

to her

delivered results, and now you've brought in Obsidian. The company has decided to award you a fifty-thousand dollar

Edith gasped, hardly able to believe her ears.

good news

stunned with happiness, Wendy smiled. "And if

Saturday.

two had arranged to meet downtown at a tea lounge. Citrine finished her breakfast and

meeting would be in a coffee shop, not somewhere as

in Havencrest—a stately old building with dark, elegant decor. As Citrine stepped inside, she immediately felt the weight of tradition

called Edith to

are you?" Edith stepped out from

seeing anyone who matched

in the courtyard