I never imagined myself here—on the precipice of running a global empire. Growing up, all I wanted was simplicity: a quiet life, free of boardrooms and towering expectations. Yet here I was, caught between duty and desire, staring at Mr. Langley as if his words might reshape the impossible into something bearable.
"Despite my uncle's health being my top priority, I'll address this," I began, my voice steadier than I felt. "My father handed the company to my uncle because he trusted in family. Together, they built something extraordinary—a global empire. And yes, my uncle's sons are currently working in the company."
Langley cut me off with a raised hand. "So, your suggestion is to evaluate the two of them and select the more capable son as CEO?"
"Yes, exactly," I said, nodding. "They have far more experience than I do. Making me CEO with no background in this industry would be reckless. I could ruin everything they've worked for. My father and uncle dedicated their lives to building Ellison Enterprises, and I won't gamble with that."
Langley studied me with a calm yet probing gaze. "Do you think his family sees it that way? Why do you think your uncle chose you over his sons? Have you asked yourself that?"
I faltered, my chest tightening as the words hit me. "Obviously not," I admitted, my voice dropping. "I haven't had the chance to think clearly. My mind's been a mess since all this started. I won't feel settled until I know he's okay."
"Elena," Langley said gently, his expression softening as he leaned forward. "Your uncle is receiving the best care possible. But I can't disclose his whereabouts until I'm authorized to do so. Revealing that information would put him at risk."
"But I need to know he's okay," I pleaded, my voice trembling with emotion. "If I don't, I won't be able to think clearly about anything—not the company, not his decision, nothing."
Langley sighed, rubbing his temples as if weighing his words carefully. "I'll give you three days to process everything. Go home, think this through, and make a decision. But let me be clear: if you refuse to sign the acceptance documents and push for one of his sons to take over, you risk seeing the company collapse. Rival firms are watching us closely, waiting for a sign of instability."
His words felt like a knife twisting in my chest. "Three days," I echoed, my tone hollow.
"Three days," he confirmed. "I hope you'll come to understand what's at stake."
I stood slowly, feeling the weight of the conversation settle on my shoulders. "I'll leave now, but don't expect much from me. My answer won't change. I don't want this."
Langley's lips curled into a faint, knowing smile. "We'll see, Miss Ellison. Until then."
I nodded stiffly, turned, and walked out of the room. My mind was in turmoil. Why would my uncle choose me over his sons? Was it because the company originally belonged to my father? He knew me well enough to understand that I had no interest in corporate life. My heart ached for him—for the mystery of his illness, his decision, and the silence surrounding his condition.
I reached the lobby, only to realize I'd left my car keys in the office. Cursing under my breath, I reluctantly turned back.
*****
A few minutes after I left, Mr. Langley's phone buzzed. He picked up and listened briefly before replying, "Let him in."
He adjusted his tie and leaned back in his chair, his face a mask of professionalism. Moments later, a knock sounded at the door.
"Come in," Langley called.
The door opened to reveal Alden Ellison, my cousin. Dressed in a tailored grey suit, every detail of his appearance—from the crisp lines of his jacket to his polished leather shoes—spoke of precision and power. His dark hair was neatly combed, and his sharp features carried an air of quiet authority.
"Mr. Langley," Alden greeted, his tone polite but commanding.
Langley rose, extending a hand. "Alden. To what do I owe this visit?"
Alden took the offered handshake with practiced ease before sitting across from Langley's desk. He crossed one leg over the other, adjusting his cufflinks. "I wanted to discuss an important matter—one I felt was better handled in person."
Langley nodded. "I assume it's about the company."
"Yes," Alden said, his tone cool. "But first, how is my father?"
Langley hesitated, his expression carefully neutral. "He's receiving the best care. Rest assured, his health is our priority."
Alden's lips curved into a faint, insincere smile. "Of course. I trust he's in good hands."
Langley didn't miss the undercurrent of doubt in his words. "Your father insisted that his condition remain confidential—for the company's sake."
"And yet the family knows," Alden said, his voice tightening. "Which brings me to my next question: why was I not consulted about his decision to step down?"
Langley met his gaze evenly. "Your father made this decision for the company's stability. It wasn't easy for him."
"Stability?" Alden repeated, his tone icy. "And who, exactly, is taking his place?"
Langley's expression didn't waver. "Your cousin, Elena Ellison."
Alden's composure cracked for a brief moment before he chuckled darkly. "Elena? The same Elena who's spent her life avoiding this company? She has no experience. No qualifications. She'll destroy everything."
"Your father believes in her," Langley said firmly.
Alden leaned forward, his voice sharp. "My brother and I have devoted years to this company. We've built it, expanded it. And yet we're bypassed for someone who's barely stepped foot in the building? It's insulting."
Langley's tone grew colder. "Your father's decision is final."
Alden rose abruptly, his movements sharp and deliberate. "This isn't over," he said. "I'll speak to him myself."
As Alden stormed out, he didn't notice me standing just outside the door. I froze, my heart sinking as I overheard his cutting words.
Each word felt like a dagger. I'd doubted myself before, but hearing Alden's scorn only deepened my insecurities. He wasn't worried about our uncle—only the company.
Taking a deep breath, I knocked lightly and stepped into Langley's office after few minutes cause i didn't want him to know i over heared they discussion.