Chapter 4274

Chapter 4274

The old managers were set in their ways and never truly respected Elora. They consistently pushed back against her, making her job as difficult as possible.

For two years, she walked on eggshells, always on edge and never allowing herself to relax.

However, once she stabilized her position and took firm control, she began to phase them out, replacing them gradually. One by one, they retired, stepping down to enjoy their golden years.

Now, the company’s leadership was fully aligned with her. She had earned their trust and respect.

“I’ve witnessed everything you’ve endured,” Mrs. Ormond said, her voice tinged with pain. “I know how much you’ve suffered and what you’ve been through.” She sighed. “Ultimately, it’s still because your father and I weren’t strong enough. Look at your best friend, Rosie. She has no pressure or responsibilities weighing her down. She gets to pursue her passions, marry whom she chooses, and lead a carefree, happy life. While she may not be as capable as you or hold the same status in this city, I would prefer for you to have her life. That’s how a wealthy young woman should live.”

Elora smiled. “Mom, you’re not a fish—how can you know what makes a fish happy?” she responded lightly. “Everyone defines happiness differently. Rosie and I are simply on different paths. I enjoy my life as it is. I have control over everything, and that’s what brings me fulfillment.”

Mrs. Ormond chuckled softly. “You have a healthy mindset, which reassures me.” However, her expression turned serious. “Still, there’s one thing that concerns me—the most important aspect of your life.”

She hesitated before finally asking, “Elora… when did things begin between you and Tatum?”

She had no idea when it had happened, even though it had been unfolding right under her nose.

Had she been too blind to see it? Or had she simply not…

Elora sat up and turned to face her mother. As their eyes met, she noticed the worry etched in Mrs. Ormond’s expression. Elora sighed inwardly, fully aware that her parents would be concerned once they learned about Tatum.

“Mom, would you believe me if I said Tatum and I haven’t actually started anything yet?” she said softly. “I only recently recognized my true feelings for him. I don’t see him merely as an employee—I genuinely admire him. That’s the truth. And knowing he has a fiancée makes me uneasy.”

She held her mother’s gaze. “Mom, you’ve seen how he treats me. I never thought much of it before, but now I realize he has always regarded me as his future wife.”

Mrs. Ormond frowned. “But didn’t you say he already has a fiancée? That his grandmother arranged it for him?”

She hesitated, concern written across her face. “He mentioned that his grandmother gave him a year to win over his fiancée, right? He’s been working here for several months now… Does that mean he’ll be resigning soon to fulfill his grandmother’s wishes?”

She sighed. “Elora, I won’t deny that Tatum is an incredible man. You two would make a great match. But he’s engaged. We shouldn’t interfere in someone else’s relationship.”

Her voice was gentle but firm. “There are many good men out there. You’ll meet someone even better.”

Elora let out a soft laugh. “Mom, I would never be a mistress. I’d never come between someone else’s relationship. But please—just listen to me.”

She took a deep breath. “Tatum does have a fiancée, but I’m the one his grandmother chose.”

A stunned silence enveloped the room.

Mrs. Ormond’s eyes widened. “What…?” she whispered. “How could it be you? When did you and Tatum even meet before he started working here?”

Her mind was racing. How could

Two individuals who had never met before find themselves engaged.