Ever since Valeria left the Tim Group and made her triumphant return to the Thomas Group, her life seemed to have taken a dramatic turn. Now, as the Deputy CEO of the Thomas Group, she wielded immense power, second only to the CEO himself. It had been quite a while since anyone had seen Valeria around.
Agnes was well aware that before Valeria's departure, she had confessed her feelings to Jared, only to be turned down. It was this rejection that spurred her to leave the Tim Group and reclaim her rightful place within the Thomas Group's hierarchy.
Their next encounter was as if no time had passed; Valeria still exuded an air of unflappable professionalism. She approached Agnes and Jared with ease, opening with, “I saw the news about your murder charge and was quite worried for you, Jared. But I knew you were innocent.”
Jared simply replied, “Thanks,” with an unfazed demeanor.
Valeria then turned her attention to Agnes, “I’ve always admired Ms. Pritchard. To have two men so utterly devoted, truly, your allure is unmatched. It’s just a shame about Ryder going down the wrong path, quite the disappointment.”
Agnes could sense the slight jab in Valeria’s words but chose not to take the bait. “The truth of the matter is still unknown. It’s too early to judge whether Ryder has truly lost his way, Ms. Thomas.”
Valeria offered a nonchalant smile, “I was merely speaking my mind. There’s no need for hostility, Ms. Pritchard. As Ryder’s sister, I too hope it’s all a misunderstanding. Our visit today is aimed at uncovering the truth and hopefully securing Ryder’s release.”
Indeed, Cilian had initiated this meeting, given Ryder was also his son. Alyssa hadn't refused. For Cilian, extricating Ryder from legal trouble, even if he was implicated in drug trafficking, was not an insurmountable task. Yet, his true motive for being here was to seek the truth and, more importantly, to see Alyssa once more.
“Alyssa, there’s something I need to tell you,” Cilian began.
“Let’s talk later. There’s someone else coming today, should be here soon,” Alyssa replied, glancing at her watch before her gaze shifted towards the grand entrance of the Whitfield family mansion.
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