After I Stopped Loving Him novel Chapter 169

The elevator moved quickly, carrying Isabella and Laura up to the thirty-eighth floor. When the doors slid open, a woman in a sharp business suit was waiting for them. She looked like she belonged here—polished and professional, probably Harold’s secretary.

“Isabella, Laura, hello.” Her voice was just as sweet as her smile.

Isabella recognized her from their last visit to The Adams Group. She offered a friendly smile in return.

“Ms. Carter is in the CEO’s office right now. She asked me to bring you to the VIP lounge for a bit. She’ll come see you as soon as she’s done.”

“Thank you, that’s very kind of you.”

The secretary led them to the lounge, poured hot tea into delicate cups, and set out a small tray of snacks in front of them.

“Please make yourselves comfortable. I’ll be nearby if you need anything.”

When the secretary left, the room felt more relaxed. Laura finally let out a quiet sigh and leaned closer to Isabella.

“Places like this are something else. Our family business is so small compared to this. My dad’s office isn’t even half as nice as this lounge.”

Isabella smiled. “If we work hard, maybe one day we’ll have our own company too. Who knows, we could get this big if we really go for it.”

Laura giggled. “I’d love that. I want to be rich, you know, like the richest person ever.”

“Same here. If we both make it, we can just share the title.” Isabella grinned.

Laura laughed again. Just talking about these dreams gave her a little rush of excitement.

Meanwhile, in the CEO’s office, Barbara finished her report. She started gathering up her papers, ready to leave.

“Barbara.”

Barbara smiled and motioned for them to sit. As she came over, she offered an apologetic smile. “Isabella, I’m sorry to keep you waiting.”

“It’s fine, we haven’t been here that long.” As Barbara came closer, Isabella made the introductions.

Barbara reached out and shook Laura’s hand warmly. “I’ve seen your photo before, Ms. Charles.”

Laura smiled. “Nice to meet you. That’s an honor.”

She guessed the photo must have come from Jesse. Barbara was Harold’s sister, and Harold and Jesse were practically inseparable—closer even than either of them were with Ethan. Laura didn’t ask, and Barbara didn’t say any more. It was enough to know Laura was the one Jesse had his eye on.