NovelUpdateChapter 471 Patricia Aldridge's question coff as casual, but the confidence in her tone was unmistakable-brash, effortless, the kind that could only be built on generations of family legacy and a mountain of wealth.
Sylvie Fielding hesitated, just for a second.
That was all the opening Patricia needed. She narrowed her eyes. "Oh, I just got back to the country, and I've already heard a bit of gossip. Word is you tried to force an engagement recently?" Sylvie froze, her expression darkening for a fleeting moment.
Why did Patricia have to be so blunt? Even Jarrod Silverstein glanced over, his brow creasing in mild disapproval.
Patricia tilted her head, smiling. "If you want to negotiate, givea price I'll actually consider. Think it over, Ms. Fielding." With that, she turned on her heel and strolled toward Elodie Thorne, who stood nearby.
By the tElodie realized Patricia was headed her way, Patricia was already in front of her. Patricia offered her hand with a poised smile. "Mrs. Silverstein... Oh wait, Ms. Thorne, isn't it? Nice to meet you. I'm Patricia, Watts Aldridge's sister." Patricia made no effort to hide her intentions or her opinions.
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtSylvie, of course, saw all of this unfold in plain view.
Patricia's attitude toward Elodie was a world apart from the way she'd just spoken to Sylvie.
Those words-said in front of everyone had been a public slap in the face.
Even Maurice Nilsson couldn't help but mutter under his breath at the scene. This Miss Aldridge was not someone to cross; she was making her disdain for Sylvie crystal clear.
She wasn't concerned with saving anyone's pride.
Jarrod looked down at Sylvie. "It's not over. There's still room to negotiate. No rush." Sylvie nodded, her feelings a tangled mess.
She told herself Patricia was only being nice to Elodie out of pity-pity for someone not truly loved. It meant nothing, really.
Meanwhile This was Elodie's first encounter with Patricia.
She shook Patricia's hand. "Hello, Miss Aldridge." Patricia, instantly at ease, was friendly and straightforward. "I've just returned, but I've already heard a lot about you-your reputation precedes you. I'm genuinely impressed. Mind if we eval ned contact info?" Since the request was so direct, Elodie saw no reason to refuse. "Of course." Patricia arched a brow, giving her a knowing look. "Thank you. My brother's mentioned you a few times-always with the highest praise." Elodie fell silent, a little caught off guard.
Patricia didn't tlinger for a response. After they'd exchanged numbers, she shot Elodie a wink. "I like you. hope we get to hang out sometime. And I hope you enjoy the exhibit today-every piece here is mine. If you see something you love, letknow. I'd be happy to gift you a painting." With that, Patricia spun on her heel and disappeared into the crowd, as breezy and unpredictable as ever.
Elodie couldn't help but notice-these siblings shared more than a few traits.
She hadn't expected to make such an interesting connection today.
Not only had she met Patricia Aldridge, but she'd also learned m something new. Watts and President Barnes were mother and son.
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏmNo wonder Watts had stepped right into an executive role at Eldrion M al the moment he returned to the Global t country. His background was formidable, to say the least.
Later, when a sudden issue cropped up at VistaLink Technologies, Elodie had to leave early with Esmeralda Mercer.
On the drive, Esmeralda brought up Sylvie's plan to rent the gallery for Selma's upcoming art show. If the exhibit goes well, Selma will finally have a foothold here. That charity event last treally put her on the map." Elodie was thinking the sthing.
But there was still no news about that painting.
Jarrod refused to share any information with her, which made the search difficult and frustrating.
She spent the rest of the ride deep in thought, brow furrowed, trying to figure out how to break the deadlock.
For the next few days, Elodie avoided any external meetings or negotiations.
She figured the "Mrs. Silverstein" gossip would fade if she simply stayed out of sight.
By Friday, it was tfor the second round of solution trials at the military's open research facility.
This time, Elodie took Galen and the rest of her team herself.
Visit our social media platform to read fascinating stories every day and connect with the community!
