The Heart Left Behind (Cole and Yvonne) novel Chapter 158

The office wouldn't let Lorraine have her moment of peace.

As she had just typed out a word, Sarah Gilbert, the new director of the design department, walked over and knocked on her desk.

Sarah had recently landed her role with no prior experience in Joplin Group. Rumor had it that she had been studying abroad and was appointed the director right upon her return.

Lorraine had been unconvinced, but she ultimately admitted that her tenure at the company was too short to vie for the role of the director.

"Congratulations, Mrs. Joplin."

"Please, Ms. Gilbert. Why are you…" Lorraine lowered her head in embarrassment. This was the type of situation she had been hoping to avoid when she was against me revealing our relationship.

She had considered remaining a secret lover forever. That might've been a better option for her.

"Now that you have a new title, shouldn't you treat us to a meal?" Sarah had never used her position to pressure others. This was the first time she had proactively suggested someone host a treat.

"Ms. Gilbert, this is just…"

"Are you trying to deny and say that it's fake?"

Lorraine froze at her words. Since I had publicly acknowledged our relationship, for her to deny it now would seem overly pretentious.

"No, it's not," she protested.

"It's settled, then. I'll book a place tonight. Let's call it a farewell dinner." Sarah decided.

Lorraine seemed puzzled and didn't quite understand what she meant.

Sarah responded with a smile. The dimples at the corners of her mouth gave her a gentle appearance, but Lorraine couldn't sense any genuine warmth in her gaze. Instead, it held a hint of calculation.

"Who knows if you'll leave the design department tomorrow to be Mr. Joplin's secretary?" Sara explained.

My secretary? The insinuation in her words was as clear as day.

Everyone understood her implication, and some snickered softly nearby. Lorraine's face flushed as she clenched her fists tightly.

Sophie had to return home to her family that evening and couldn't attend the gathering. She was worried about Lorraine going alone.

"You'd better tell Mr. Joplin," she urged.

"It's fine. It's not like she can harm me."

Since I had revealed our relationship, Sarah would be concerned by how I'd react and wouldn't dare openly target her—at least not blatantly.

"Take care," Lorraine said, patting Sophie on the shoulder. She waved at Sophie as she turned to leave.

Watching Lorraine leave, Sophie hesitated before deciding to follow her.

Once Lorraine heard footsteps behind her, she turned and asked, "Aren't you heading home?"

"I don't feel at ease leaving you alone."