Chapter 59
Raven noticed Reese’s sudden stillness and voiced her concern, “Reese, are you alright?”
The man, catching wind of the conversation, turned to look their way.
His eyes locked onto Reese’s, and a moment of recognition passed between them.
Reese rose from her seat hastily, her heart pounding as she tentatively uttered, “Director Hopkins?”
A bittersweet smile tugged at the corners of Cole’s lips, and he nodded. “Reese.”
He had been on a business trip before and had no idea that Reese had joined Strakovski Jewelry.
The complexity of their emotions swirled, each harboring a wealth of unspoken thoughts. After three years of obscurity, Cole hadn’t anticipated being recognized by a familiar face.
Reese’s mind buzzed with a multitude of questions, uncertain where to begin.
Why the change in surname?
Why sever all ties for three years?
Did he know that Ava had been searching for him?
Witnessing Reese’s shifting expressions, Cole deduced her internal quandary. He suggested, “Reese, come to my office.”
Within the design department, the exchange between them was cryptic, leaving the onlookers baffled. What was going on?
“Why does it seem like Director Hopkins and Reese know each other?”
“I don’t think so. Reese recognized his name but didn’t react as if she knew him when she heard it
yesterday.”
“You’re right. Her expression didn’t convey familiarity. Perhaps since Reese was newly transferred to the design department, she hasn’t crossed paths with Director Hopkins before.”
Reese followed Cole into his office and regarded the man seated at the desk. With a respectful tone, she greeted, “Cole!”
A Perfect Lie Hides Behind My Billionair
11 N
Chapter 50
Cole glanced at her, a smile touching his lips. “Reset”
A pause lingered, then he continued, “Please, have a seat. If you have any inquiries… feel free to ask “
Given their impending collaboration, some matters couldn’t be sidestepped.
Reese nodded, her gaze steady. “Cole, weren’t you previously Cole Harris? Why the change to Hopkins? No wonder Ava and I couldn’t locate you over the past three years.”
Cole’s surprise surfaced briefly, followed by a self deprecating chuckle. “The surname alteration was a family decision. But tell me, why were you seeking me out
Keeping Ava’s distraught state from last night in mind, Reese regarded Cole with a complex expression. She replied helplessly, “You’ve forgotten, but you owe Ava a life–saving favor. Your sudden vanishing act naturally has her deeply concerned.”
Cole remained unaware of Ava’s affections toward him, and Reese was cautious not to rashly break it.
At the mention of Ava’s name, a flicker of amusement danced across Cole’s eyes. “I thought she usually maintains indifference to such matters. I apologize.”
“You should convey that to her. She’s been genuinely worried about you for three years. But why did you cut contact after college?” Reese struggled with her response.
Cole hesitated before explaining. “There was a family issue that required my presence in another city. I only returned here within the past two years.”
Reese sensed that Cole wanted to avoid delving into the details of their three–year separation. She nodded, lips forming a gentle smile. “Indeed, it’s a pleasure to see you again, Cole.”
“I heard a new designer was recommended personally by Mr Strakovski himself. I was curious about the identity of this designer. And now, I find it’s you, Reese. I’ve always held you in high regard. Your design talent is among the most exceptional I’ve encountered.” Cole’s smile matched hers.
“I find that hard to believe. Designer Emily’s skills surpass mine, don’t they?” Reese playfully countered.
Cole hesitated, his tone turning serious. “Perhaps her current accomplishments overshadow yours, but her raw talent isn’t on par with yours.”
Reese blinked, momentarily taken aback, before recovering with a smile. “You’re just trying to tease me. Keep that assessment between us. We wouldn’t want to make Victoria jealous.”
“I understand. She holds Emily in high esteem. But remember, your talents are exceptional too, and with effort, you’ll surpass even Emily.”
She intended to jest in response, yet the gravity in Cole’s eyes halted her. Their exchange was interrupted
Chapter 59
by a knock on the door
al
“Director Hopkins, Designer Roberts, Mr Strakovski has called for a meeting with the designs from the design department!”
“Let’s go. We should join the meeting.” Cole rose swiftly
With no opportunity to relay the good news to Ava, Reese tralled Cole to the conference room on the so
floor.
As Lukas entered the room, he mulled over the idea of involving Reese in the Century Jewelry Competition. He wondered if such an endeavor might trigger unintended anxieties for Ber
However, upon his arrival, his thoughts were redirected. There stood Cole and Reese, engraved in an
intimate conversation.
Their heads were closed, laughter flowed, and Reese’s eyes sparkled like stars.
Ch
