The following day, after breakfast, Alden and Hannah went to their respective offices. For the time being, Hannah was driven by a chauffeur because Alden didn’t want her to fall ill again suddenly. Feeling more at ease, Alden headed to Goldtime.
However, in truth, Alden felt a bit uneasy having to see Sarah every day. While Sarah’s behavior in front of the other employees didn’t suggest anything unusual, as soon as she stepped into Alden’s office, she wasn’t shy about showing her affection, making Alden uncomfortable.
As Alden arrived at the office and was about to go inside, he spotted Jeffrey standing outside as if waiting for someone. Alden guessed Jeffrey wanted to speak with him.
“Good morning, Mr. Alden,” Jeffrey greeted with a smile. “Sorry if I’m interrupting your workday.”
“It’s fine, Jeffrey. Is there something you’d like to discuss? Come on, let’s go to my office.”
Jeffrey felt relieved. Alden was still being kind, and Jeffrey regretted his past mistakes. But regretting wasn’t enough-he wanted to make things right.
The two entered the building, walking side by side. At the same time, Sarah came through another door and was surprised to see Alden with a man she didn’t recognize. But she didn’t approach; she just watched as Alden and Jeffrey entered the elevator.
…
Jeffrey stepped into Alden’s luxurious office, far more impressive than Texco’s. Alden invited him to sit, and though Jeffrey felt awkward, he sat across from Alden.
“How can I help you?” Alden asked.
“I’m not sure if Hannah has mentioned it yet, but my mother-in-law asked her to help me find a new job,” Jeffrey said, looking down with embarrassment. “I really don’t know what else to do, sir. I haven’t been able to find work.”
“Hannah and I have talked about this. But I don’t think Goldtime’s work environment would suit you, Jeffrey,” Alden replied.
Jeffrey looked unsure. Did that mean Alden wasn’t going to give him a chance?
“However, I’ve suggested to Hannah that you return to Texco,” Alden continued.
“Really?” Jeffrey said, suddenly eager. “That’s great news!”
“If Hannah agrees.”
Jeffrey nodded, understanding. “I get it. Maybe Hannah won’t want me back at Texco.”
“Hannah doesn’t hold grudges; she just wants to ensure the workplace remains peaceful,” Alden explained. “If you can ensure your wife doesn’t cause any more trouble at the office, Hannah will consider rehiring you.”
“Of course, sir,” Jeffrey quickly assured him. “I’ll talk to Aspen. She’ll understand.”
“Alright. If you can guarantee that, I’ll let Hannah know.”
Jeffrey stood up and shook Alden’s hand. “I promise, sir.”
After a brief chat, Jeffrey left Alden’s office, feeling both relieved and happy. On his way out, he passed Sarah, who was slightly startled but quickly walked on. She entered Alden’s office, glancing back briefly before approaching Alden.
“Who was that?” Sarah asked.
“My brother-in-law,” Alden said as he looked through some files on his desk. “He’s looking for work.”
“Your brother-in-law? I’m confused.”
“That’s Hannah’s sister’s husband, Jeffrey,” Alden clarified.
Sarah stayed silent, remembering what Hannah had told her-that Jeffrey had married her stepsister. So, it was true, after all.
Sarah then sat down in front of Alden, watching him sift through documents.
“And he wants to work here? At Goldtime?” Sarah asked.
Alden shook his head. “I suggested he return to Texco. He used to work there.”
“Oh, so Jeffrey used to work at Texco?”
“Yes, before I married Hannah.”
“Maybe it’s best if he returns to Texco,” Sarah agreed.
In her heart, Sarah was already planning to contact Aspen and arrange a meeting. There were things she needed to clarify with her.
Alden then took out his phone and glanced at Sarah. “Did you want to talk about something?”
“Oh, no. I just wanted to see you.”
“Well, if you don’t mind, I need to make a call. Could you give me a moment?”
Sarah felt awkward. “Yeah, sure. No problem.”
As Sarah left Alden’s office, she heard him greet someone on the phone in a soft, loving voice.
“Hannah, sweetheart…”
Sarah’s heart shattered hearing him use that affectionate tone-for Hannah, not her.
*
Jeffrey stood up when Hannah entered the meeting room, but she motioned for him to sit back down. Watching Hannah, confident and assertive, made Jeffrey feel even smaller. She had made the right choice by not marrying someone like him. Alden was giving Hannah the best life possible.
“Alden called me this morning, and we discussed things,” Hannah began. “That’s why I asked you to come.”
Jeffrey nodded silently.
“You’re welcome to start work whenever you’re ready, Jeffrey. But I want to clarify-I don’t want Aspen to show up here often, especially causing trouble. Can you guarantee that?”
“Of course. I’ll keep our personal and work lives separate,” Jeffrey assured her.
Hannah paused, feeling a sudden wave of dizziness. Lately, she’d been experiencing frequent headaches, but she didn’t think anything serious was wrong-just overwork.
“Hannah, are you okay? You look pale,” Jeffrey said with concern.
“Just a little dizzy,” she replied.
“Have you seen a doctor?”
Hannah forced a smile. “Not yet. I haven’t had time.”
“Well, it wouldn’t hurt to get a check-up,” Jeffrey advised.
“Thanks, Jeffrey. If I have some free time, I’ll make an appointment.” Hannah stood up. “Welcome back to Texco. I hope we can work well together.”
“Thank you again, Hannah,” Jeffrey said, feeling grateful.
Jeffrey felt a wave of relief and joy as he left the office. He couldn’t wait to share the good news with Francesca and Aspen. Something in his gut, however, told him Hannah might be pregnant. He would talk to Francesca about it later.