Her plea resonated with a fragile tone, carrying an undeniable sense of desperation.
Having known Sirena for many years, Johnny was taken aback by her unusually humble plea. It was a side of her he had never witnessed before.
Sighing, Johnny reluctantly acquiesced. He turned and made his way out of the hospital room.
In a secluded corner of the hospital corridor, Johnny lit a cigarette, took a drag, and dialed Ulric’s number.
After a few rings, Ulric’s deep and gravelly voice came through the phone.
“What’s going on?”
“Sirena’s condition is quite serious, and I can’t handle it alone. If you have the time, please come and help me out!” Johnny implored.
“I need to get home early,” Ulric responded.
Anticipating Ulric’s response, Johnny let out a frustrated sigh, smoke escaping his lips. “I’m not saying this to criticize you, but aren’t you being too harsh on Sirena? She developed acute appendicitis from working late. Let’s not forget that we’ve been friends since childhood. As the leader of the W Group, it would be appropriate for you to show some concern for your dedicated employee.”
“If it were a man, I would have gone already. But now that I’m married, it wouldn’t be appropriate,” Ulric explained.
“Married, married! You keep repeating those words. Are you going to discard all other relationships?!” Johnny’s voice rose, clearly indignant on Sirena’s behalf. “Does this mean that if she doesn’t want to see you, you won’t come to help me in the future when I’m in trouble?”
There was a noticeable pause on Ulric’s end. After a few seconds, he responded, “I’ll ask Rosalind later. If she has time, we’ll come together.”
“…”
As Johnny stared at the disconnected call, he deeply regretted agreeing to Sirena’s request.
If Rosalind were to visit Sirena, it would have been better if they hadn’t come at all.
…
In the conference room of the W Group, Rosalind attentively listened to Cedric’s explanation, diligently taking notes to capture every detail.
In the moments when Cedric paused, the only sound in the room was the scratch of Rosalind’s pen against the paper.
Once the meeting concluded, Rosalind meticulously organized her notes.
Cedric approached her. “I have a feeling you’re destined for great things in the field of investment banking.”
Aside from her remarkable dedication, her level of commitment was seldom seen in others.
Rosalind squinted and smiled. “That’s because you’re an exceptional teacher! Your case analyses are precise and detailed, and I’ve learned so much from you.”
These were lessons she could never have acquired in Prosperity Holdings’ third group.
“I see you’ve taken copious notes, but understanding them is even more crucial. If you have any questions, feel free to ask me.”
“Of course!”
She gathered her belongings and was about to leave when her mother’s call interrupted her.
Seeking privacy for their conversation, Rosalind swiftly found a secluded corner before answering.
“Hello, Mom.”
“How much longer are you planning to prolong this? Is it so difficult to meet your husband? Does he work around the clock?”
Eva bombarded Rosalind with questions, leaving her momentarily speechless.
“It’s not just him who’s busy… I’m busy too.”
“Fine, take all the time you need. I’m checking myself out of the hospital today.”
“No!” Rosalind knew her mother was capable of doing just that. “I promise you, within three days, okay? I’ll definitely bring him to see you! I’ve already discussed it with him. He’s nervous and unsure how to face you.”
“He took my daughter away and got married without informing me. Nervous? Ha!”
“You see, why do you have to use that tone? Wouldn’t it be better for him to be occupied with work rather than being a penniless man with nothing at home, forcing us to start from scratch?”