Chapter 274
Chapter 274:
Leonino had sensed it for a while, but hearing it aloud didn’t make it any easier to digest.
Valeria didn’t have a clear answer—not one that would make sense out loud. So, she offered the only explanation that came to mind. “Perhaps it’s because I met him first p>
Leonino let out a short, dry laugh. “By that logic, your kindergarten friends should be at the top of your list. Does that make them special p>
The sarcasm faded almost instantly, his voice dropping into something more serious. “Is this about my family? Because if it is, you should know—the Morrisons are just as wealthy as the Prescotts. Maybe even messier p>
“I’m not trying to compare the two of you. That wouldn’t be fair to anyone.” Valeria didn’t want to dwell on the topic. Instead, she shifted to something more…
Grounded, Valeria spoke. “And about your family—pretending the problems don’t exist won’t make them go away. If you keep avoiding them, it’s going to be hard for any woman to want to step into that kind of chaos p>
The next day, at Star Wish Investments, Eleanino knocked gently on the door of the CEO’s office before stepping in, her expression composed as she briefed Alden on her progress. After a pause, she added with a note of regret, “About yesterday’s interview—I realize now I shouldn’t have spoken to Helena like that. My last apology didn’t really come from the right place. When you see her tonight, could you please pass along my apology again p>
Alden had always drawn a clear line between work and anything personal when it came to Eleanino. Hearing what she said, he gave a small nod, and that was enough.
Watching him, Eleanino felt a quiet certainty settle in. Helena mattered to him, more than she expected. Maybe Dorian had been right all along. But the thought sat heavy, and the more it sank in, the more she didn’t want to believe it.
She pushed down the frustration rising in her chest, her eyes drifting to the discreet hearing aid by his ear. “I thought your hearing was fine now p>
Her concern was sincere, but Alden responded nonchalantly, “It’s mostly fine now, but I still use the hearing aid from time to time to help my ears adjust.” Most people didn’t understand the process of recovering from hearing loss, so Eleanino was easily convinced.
She let the topic slide, but as she lowered her gaze, something caught her attention—a special report on Alden’s desk.
L𝓐tєѕτ chʜɑρτєrs ιn g𝒶l𝑛ovєl𝑠.ⲕоm
It wasn’t business data—it was a map, marked with multiple locations. “What’s this about p>
Alden hadn’t hidden his search for his mother’s grave, but he hadn’t mentioned it to Helena. He didn’t want to distract her from her new role just yet.
Seeing that Eleanino had spotted the map, Alden realized there was no point in hiding it. They weren’t just coworkers. They had become friends, in a way.
Unexpectedly, Eleanino said, “Are you planning to search again today? I’d like to come with you—I really want to help p>
“No, it’s not necessary p>
Alden hadn’t even gotten the chance to finish his sentence when Eleanino jumped in. “Hold on, don’t get me wrong. I’m just filling in for Dorian. He used to handle everything for you. Now that he’s gone, it’s on me. Also, I wouldn’t be where I am if it weren’t for your support. I’ve always felt like I owe you. If you let me lend a hand now, even just a bit, maybe it’ll feel like I’ve finally given something back. And don’t worry about Helena—I’ll take care of that part myself p>