Chapter 356
Chapter 356 Empty Hopes
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Celyn had spent four years working by Asher’s side. She’d believed he trusted her enough to let her handle all of Zora’s business. She’d thought she meant something to him, that she had a special spot in his heart.
But he’d dismissed her so easily, just like that, telling her never to come back.
“You p>
Asher glanced down at the woman standing in front of him. His eyes were cold and empty. His tone turned sharp, clearly growing annoyed.
“I only kept you around because you’ve been behaving well lately p>
“Is this all we are? Just a boss and his employee p>
Celyn’s body shook slightly. There was one last glimmer of desperate hope in her eyes.
“What other feelings did you think I’d have for you p>
Asher’s voice stayed flat. He didn’t care about her feelings one bit, simply stating a plain truth.
“Then why did you let me join MZ Group? Why make me your secretary? Why let me take care of everything for Zora p>
So many people had been rescued along with her years ago, yet he’d only kept her by his side. She’d truly thought she was different to him.
“Randy hired you p>
Asher’s tone was openly impatient.
Randy Smith was Asher’s senior assistant, who’d stayed with him for years. Back then, Celyn would report all of Zora’s updates to Randy first, and Randy would pass every detail along to Asher. But three months ago, Asher had sent Randy away to search for rare medicinal herbs.
Asher wanted as few people as possible involved with his affairs back home. He didn’t want Zora getting dragged into his troubles. The distant relatives of the Hale family would definitely panic and lash out if they found out what he was up to. That was why he hadn’t dared contact Zora for months.
With Randy gone, Celyn had taken over direct reporting.
She’d done a decent job these past few months. But Asher only ever cared about news of Zora. He’d never paid any extra attention to Celyn herself.
Celyn only got to see him often because her work revolved around Zora. Still, she’d foolishly let
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unrealistic thoughts fill her head.
Celyn was originally recruited by Randy for the secretary team. Asher never bothered with hiring staff himself.
If her job hadn’t been tied to Zora, she never would’ve even stepped foot in his office. She’d kept her head down and obeyed orders for four years. Randy had only put her in charge of Zora’s affairs three months prior.
A bitter laugh escaped Celyn’s lips. She finally understood. She’d never mattered to him at all.
Zora was the only person he cared about in the world.
He had a face that looked gentle and kind, like a benevolent god. But despite his soft appearance, he was the coldest person.
“He’s going to be okay p>
Leighton noticed the worried look in Zora’s eyes. He reached up and ruffled her hair softly.
Jensen was keeping an eye on things over in Mevoria. Asher would be safe.
“Honestly… I’m so worried about my mentor p>
Zora hung her head, twisting the card between her fingers.
“He would never leave me on purpose. He’s never done this before. Something bad must’ve happened. He hasn’t reached out at all. I’m scared he’s in trouble p>
Her voice sounded quiet and lonely.
“Trust him, Zora. He promised he’d come back for you, and he always keeps his promises p>
Leighton gently pinched her cheek, a soft smile tugging at his mouth.
Asher would definitely come back safe and sound.
He knew for a fact Asher could never stay away from her forever.
He was probably just busy wrapping things up so he could come get her soon.
On the weekend…
“Leighton, is Maya’s dad back yet p>
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Zora headed out with Leighton. They’d booked a restaurant for the night, planning to let Maya meet Kim.
“I already sent Tristan to pick him up.” Leighton walked beside her.
“What do you think their meeting will be like p>
Zora took small steps forward, then paused and turned to look back at him.
It was a father-daughter reunion after more than ten years. She couldn’t help but wonder how it would go for Maya.
Her own reunion with the Knox family had been awful.
“We’ll find out in just a minute p>
As they talked, they reached the door of the private dining room.
Maya had already arrived early.
Kimberly hadn’t come with her. Maya wanted to see what kind of person Kim really was.
She was fully capable of supporting herself and Kimberly on her own.
She just needed the truth about what happened all those years ago. She needed to know if her mom had loved someone who didn’t deserve it.
“Hey, Maya p>
Zora and Leighton walked into the room. Maya was standing by the window, staring blankly outside.
She wore a casual camel hoodie over a white silk shirt, paired with black cargo pants and combat boots. Her long hair was tied back neatly, showing off her clean, pretty features. She had on thin silver-framed glasses.
Her whole look was neat, simple and refreshing.
Zora always kept her word. She’d told Maya she’d get her new glasses, and the very next day, she’d bought ten pairs for her.
She had all kinds of frames-black, white, silver, gold and blue…
That way, Maya could wear glasses whenever she wanted, without ruining her delicate
appearance.
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The Real Heiress s New Family Adored by All
Jane is a passionate storyteller known for her bold romantic and spicy novels that keep readers hooked from the very first chapter. With a flair for crafting emotionally intense plots and unforgettable characters, she blends love, desire, and drama into every story she writes. Cedella’s storytelling style is immersive and addictive—perfect for fans of heated romances and heart-pounding twists.