The whirlwind of publicity surrounding her designs had subsided, and the public’s focus had swiftly shifted elsewhere.
Just as Natalie was about to pocket her phone, a barrage of notifications erupted.
Her post had been inundated with comments, arriving in rapid succession, overwhelming her ability to keep up.
As she scrolled, Natalie discovered the official account of W Marks had shared and liked her post, capturing users’ interest and prompting the deluge of comments.
She was taken aback, recalling that Draco wasn’t one to be enthusiastic about social media. Could it be Elizabeth, the manager of W Marks’ official account, who had shared her post?
With that thought, Natalie promptly dialed Elizabeth’s number.
Elizabeth answered the phone promptly. “Natalie, what’s going on?”
Anxious, Natalie inquired, “Elizabeth, did you just share my post? Did Mr. Wesley approve it? Will this cause any problems for you?”
Chuckling, Elizabeth reassured her, “Don’t worry, Mr. Wesley won’t mind. In fact, he’s been following your account all along but kept quiet to avoid putting too much pressure on you. Now that everyone has seen your first independent design, they’re all thrilled. Not only is it fine for me to share your post using W Marks’ official account, but Mr. Wesley might even personally promote your studio on social media.”
Hearing this, Natalie exhaled in relief and beamed, “Thank you!”
Simultaneously, Laney stumbled upon Natalie’s post on her phone.
Witnessing her friend’s work receive such widespread acclaim, she clicked “like” and a proud smile graced her lips.
Teresa, passing by, noticed Laney grinning at her phone and couldn’t resist asking, “What’s caught your eye?”
“Check this out!” Laney handed her phone to Teresa, her eyes sparkling. “Aren’t Natalie’s designs stunning?”
Teresa grinned, glancing at the screen. “Absolutely. You’re beaming like you created them yourself.”
Laney’s smile widened. “She’s my close friend, and I couldn’t be happier for her success. Her designs are incredible, and I’m sure she’ll become a renowned designer with pricier commissions in the future.”
Despite her excitement, Teresa noticed a hint of envy in Laney’s eyes as she continued to praise Natalie. It was evident that Laney admired her friend’s thriving career.
Noticing this, Teresa sighed, her expression turning somber. “You once had a great career, Laney. You were the most famous female security guard in the industry. It’s a shame that you got married, and then we never heard from you again.”
Laney’s smile faltered. “Is that so?”
Teresa shook her head. “I thought you’d given up your career as a bodyguard to become a wealthy housewife.”
A bitter smile crossed Laney’s face as she shook her head. “I don’t want to return to being a puppet for the wealthy family.”
Her time with the Harding family was a period she wanted to forget. During that period of time, Laney felt like a soulless doll, subject to their every whim.
The mere thought suffocated her. Understanding Laney’s pain, Teresa patted her shoulder. “The past is behind you. You’re still young, and it’s never too late to pursue your dreams.”
Laney’s expression brightened a little. “I’m grateful for my job at your company now. It’s exhausting, but I’m finally living life on my terms.”
As they spoke, Teresa’s tone grew serious. “Actually, I have another matter to discuss with you today.”
Laney’s curiosity piqued. “What is it? Please, do tell.”
“I’d like to hire you as our company’s consultant, training our new recruits,” Teresa revealed.
Laney’s heart raced, but her face fell. “I’ve been away from the security industry for so long. I’m afraid I won’t be able to do it.”
She hadn’t worked in years and doubted her ability to perform her old job.
Moreover, after giving birth to her child, Laney’s physical fitness had declined. Her daughter, Anya, was still young and needed her. She feared she wouldn’t have the time or energy to balance work and motherhood.
lan entered the room just in time to catch their conversation.
Understanding Laney’s concerns, he reassured her, “You don’t need to worry,
Mrs. Harding. You can ease back into work, and your health is manageable.”
Laney shook her head, disheartened. “I can’t return to my former self. Since giving birth to Anya, my body hasn’t been the same.”
Teresa narrowed her eyes. “How do you know unless you try? Don’t you miss the confidence and happiness you once had? Dwelling on the past will only bring you down.”
Laney forced a wry smile. “I understand, but what about Anya? She needs me right now.” lan chimed in, “I’ll be here to look after Anya. You can pursue your dreams without worry.”
Teresa nodded in agreement. “Laney, you can’t stay trapped in your past. It’s time to move forward.”
Laney’s expression softened as she listened to Teresa and Ian.
Maybe she shouldn’t have been so consumed by worry or let down her supportive friends.
Having escaped ped the clutches of the Harding family, Laney resolved to stand tall, embrace her new life, and face fresh challenges head-on.
Laney was swayed. “But I still need more time. After all, with Anya…”
New Book: Beginning with a Daring Encounter
Celsie was tired of being labeled as an introvert, workaholic, and dull virgin by her friends. Determined to prove them wrong, she made a bet that she would do something daring on her 25th birthday. Now that the day had arrived, it was time to fulfill her promise. On her daring to-do list, there was one task: a one-night stand with someone.
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