13
Elena's POV
The morning sunlight streaming through the glass walls of the Brooks Group headquarters did little to lift my spirits. Today was monumental—a board meeting with the top executives, the very people who would decide if I was worthy of the CEO title. I shouldve felt excited, confident, even triumphant. But after last nights revelations about Jason, my heart was heavy with confusion and betrayal.
As I entered the boardroom, the faces around the table greeted me with expectant smiles. They were all counting on me, on the Brooks name. I was the heir to this company, yet at that moment, I felt like an outsider.
I forced myself to focus, nodding along as the meeting began, playing with my fingers but my mind kept drifting back to Jason—Jason Campbell, or Edward, or whoever he truly was. I couldnt shake the feeling of betrayal, the way hed deceived me with a false identity.
But this was no time for personal emotions. I tried to regain control, mentally berating myself to stay present, to give the board members the competent leader they expected. I needed to prove myself, to show them I was more than just an heiress with a title handed to her on a silver platter.
At last, the meeting came to an end. The board members filed out, their faces were unreasonable and I let out a sigh of relief.
It seems like they notice. Had my distraction cost me their approval?
My best friend Samantha waited outside the boardroom, her keen eyes catching the subtle shift in my mood instantly. She patted my back giving me a reassuring squeeze on my shoulder as we walked down the hallway together.
"Tough day, huh?Samantha remarked, her voice soft. Youve got to stay strong, Elena. Your role in this company is crucial, and you cant let anything throw you off."
I forced a small smile, letting out a sigh. You dont understand, Sam. I was completely absent-minded in there. Im not even sure the board believes I can handle this.
Oh, come on,Samantha nudged me playfully. They dont have a choice. Youre the heiress of the Brooks Group. They need you, and youve got this!
But thats exactly the problem,I said, frustration seeping into my voice. I dont want to be handed this position just because of my last name. I need to earn it. I want them to respect me for my abilities, not just for my bloodline.I glanced down, a mixture of doubt and determination gnawing at me.
Samantha chuckled, crossing her arms as we stopped near the glass-paneled windows overlooking the bustling city below. Well, if you want to earn it, heres a good start. Theres a bid coming up, a huge project that Brooks Group has been eyeing for months. I heard its about building a bridge on the outskirts of the city—a way to boost the companys public image and, you know, win the peoples trust.
I raised an eyebrow, intrigued. A bridge project? Sounds ambitious.
Samantha grinned. Exactly. If you can secure this bid, the board would have no choice but to recognize your worth. Youd be the CEO they cant afford to doubt.
Her words sparked a thrill of excitement within me, the first sliver of hope Id felt since last night. Alright, but how am I supposed to get this project when even the board couldnt?
She shrugged, flashing a mischievous smile. Thats for you to figure out. Just think of it as your chance to show them what youre made of.
Before I could respond, Samanthas gaze shifted, her expression darken as she looked past me. I followed her line of sight and my eyes caught with him again.
There, walking confidently down the hall, was Lucas—my ex-husband. His very presence was enough to remove the positivity Id begun to feel.
Oh, great,Samantha muttered, taking a step back. Id better get going. Your ex is here, babe. Good luck.She gave me a sympathetic smile before disappearing down the hall, leaving me to face Lucas alone.
I sighed, running a hand through my hair. *Not again.* Just when I thought the day couldnt get any worse.
Lucas?I said, unable to hide my exasperation. What are you doing here? Can you please just leave me alone?
Ignoring my irritation, Lucas crossed his arms, a smug grin playing on his lips. I heard about your little chat. About the bridge project youre chasing.
I folded my arms defensively, already dreading where this conversation was heading. Obviously,I replied tersely. And thats none of your business.
He didnt flinch. I can help you secure that bid, Elena,he said, his tone a mix of arrogance and persuasion. All you have to do is come back to me. Well remarry, and Ill make sure you succeed.
I couldnt help but chuckle softly, shaking my head at the absurdity. And why, exactly, do you think I need your help?
His smile widened as if hed won some invisible game. Because you have the brains, but you lack experience. Lets face it, Elena. This is a major project, and if you try to take it on alone, youll fail. But with me by your side, wed be unstoppable.
I scoffed, folding my arms tighter. No, thank you,I replied nonchalantly, the finality clear in my voice. I dont need your help, Lucas.
His expression hardened, a flash of irritation breaking through his calm exterior. Is this about that guy? Is he the reason you wont come back to me?
I glared at him, anger sparking at his insinuation. What on earth are you talking about? This has nothing to do with anyone else. I dont need to justify my choices to you.
But he didnt back down. Im talking about the man youre engaged to. Are you really choosing him over me?
A wave of exhaustion washed over me, his words grating on my last nerve. Please, Lucas. I shouldnt even be having this conversation with you. Were over, and thats not going to change.
I turned to leave, I stopped halfway and turned giving him a one last, pointed glance. Have a nice day, Lucas,I said, and with that, I walked away, What's his problem!?
As I made my way down the hall, his voice called after me, You cant run from me forever, Elena!
But I didnt look back. Go to hell!