Dangerous Love: You Are My One and Only Bride novel Chapter 1683

Even so, Shelly was keenly aware of the minute but odd flex in Libby’s voice. “Libby… Sheppard? What are you doing? You sound off, dear.”

Libby shot a brisk glance at Arianne then took a deep breath and started, “Nothing. I just came home from work, that‘s all. Walked quite a distance, so I might sound a little, er, breathy. Um, anyway, the reason why I’m calling you right now is because I… need your help. Mr. Tremont thinks I’m not doing a peachy keen enough job for him, and I think he’s onto axing me. Mrs. Leigh, I was, uh, hoping you can help put in a good word for me, you know? I’ve been working hard in Tremont Enterprise for so long, and I didn’t get to be the supervisor just to be shown the door… You get what I’m saying?”

The other side of the phone was quiet for a tad too long. It took more than ten conspicuous seconds before Shelly finally said, “Hey, listen. I really, really want to help, but… I can’t do much about the affairs of the company. As you’re no doubt aware, I’m not working in the company anymore, so how do you expect me to talk to Mark about things like these? Oh, you know how he's like—very opinionated, that man. Don’t get me wrong, I really want to help you, but I can’t. My advice is that you leave the company when he tells you to, but don’t worry, because I’ll be wiring you a sum of compensation. How’s that? I’ll also help you scout for new jobs, too—and I’ll make sure you’ll earn as much as you do as in the Tremont’s.”

Libby’s complexion turned ghastly. Shelly’s response so eerily mirrored Arianne’s prediction that it was as though the two had rehearsed her answer prior to this meeting.

The call ended soon enough—and so did Libby’s bravado, which was escaping her like air from a leaking balloon. For a long time, she wallowed in silence.

Knowing Libby was in no hurry to leave, Arianne let her go from her grip. “So, what do you think? I did tell you that I know her better than you do. Do you see the position you’re in right now?”

“What do you want from me?” Libby intoned mechanically. “You knocked me for a loop like a schmuck. I admit loss.”

Arianne sighed. “No, I don’t want anything. I just want you to tell me what Shelly made you do. No details held back, please.”