She turned around, leaning on the sofa to look at Nelson. At that moment, the morning light poured through the floor-to-ceiling windows, casting a golden glow on his face. Callie finally understood why people say that men are most handsome when they are focused on their work.
She thought for a moment but decided not to ask.
Cora returned to the secretary’s office. Seeing her troubled expression, someone couldn’t help but ask, “What’s wrong? Did Mr. Oconnor lose his temper?”
“I’d rather he lost his temper.” Cora forced a smile. “It’s nothing.”
She walked to the break room to get some water. Just then, her phone rang. She glanced at the caller ID and immediately answered, lowering her voice to scold, “What do you want?”
Whatever was said on the other end made Cora even angrier. “I only asked you to find a way to stop her from attending the meeting. Who told you to hit her with a car? If it weren’t for your stupid actions, none of this would have happened!”
“And you have the nerve to blame me? Blame yourself for giving me leverage. If you hadn’t gotten involved with a man, would I have had any chance to threaten you?”
“I can’t help you. Mr. Oconnor has given strict orders. Both of you are finished.” Cora sneered. “Don’t call me again.”
The person on the other end continued to argue hysterically. Cora’s chest heaved with anger. “Skye! Stop being unreasonable. Go ahead, report me. I’d like to see if Mr. Oconnor believes you or me.”
She hung up abruptly and noticed water spilling everywhere. She snapped back to reality, picked up her cup, and turned around. At that moment, she saw a figure standing at the door and took a step back in fright.
Callie leaned against the doorframe, shrugging innocently. “Miss Weber, you’re taking too long to get water. I thought I’d save you the trouble and come myself. You don’t mind, do you?”
Cora’s face was full of panic, as if she’d seen a ghost. “…You heard.”
Her voice tightened. Callie laughed heartily but was filled with anger inside. “I didn’t expect that everything started because of you, Miss Weber. You hid it too well.”
Cora gripped her cup tightly, her face pale. “No, I just gave Skye some advice. I had no part in what she did.”
“I believe you,” Callie replied quickly.
“You believe me?” Cora’s voice cracked in disbelief.
“Not only do I believe you, but I also believe Nelson will too. After all, you really didn’t do anything.” Callie stepped closer until she was right in front of her. “Moreover, you’ve put so much effort into my situation. Even knowing you’re the catalyst, neither he nor I have any reason to blame you.”
Such understanding only made Cora more anxious. Her breathing quickened. “What do you want?”
“I don’t want anything.” Callie circled her slowly. “I won’t hold this against you or tell Nelson, but I want you to know-”
“Since he and I are already married, it’s a done deal. You’d better stop making futile efforts. I value my life and don’t want to die inexplicably.” She raised her voice, her tone heavy. “Nelson doesn’t like you, and he might not like me either, but until this is over, don’t target me again. Let’s all do our jobs well. What do you think?”
Cora stared at her cunning face and gritted her teeth. “I don’t believe it. He’s such a good person; I don’t believe you haven’t developed feelings for him.”
Callie paused and then smiled. Maybe she had.