The CEO’s Unspoken Love (Eleanor and Derek) novel Chapter 192

Chapter 192

Eleanor POV

Mrs. Bradley raised a skeptical eyebrow. “I trust we are not wasting your time with these trivialities, Ms. Wells?”

“Not at all, I replied, looking directly at her. “I simply believe that mutual respect is the foundation of any successful business

relationship.

Mrs. Bradley gasped slightly at my directness. ‘Young lady, where did you learn your manners? This is hardly the way to speak to

potential clients.”

I met her gaze steadily. My upbringing taught me that respect goes both ways, Mrs. Bradley. My professional ethics require me to be honest about expectations and capabilities.”

Before Mrs. Bradley could respond, Richards appeared at the doorway. “Mrs. Bradley, Mr. Bradley has asked to speak with Ms. Wells, regarding some specific requirements. He’s in his study.”

Mrs. Bradley waved a dismissive hand. “Fine. Perhaps Robert can make some sense of this situation.”

I carefully repacked one of my arrangements, leaving the others for Mrs. Bradley to examine further. Richards led me through the hallway to a heavy oak door, which he opened without knocking.

“Ms. Wells, sir, he announced, then closed the door behind me.

Mr. Bradley sat behind an imposing desk, his silver hair and sharp blue eyes reminiscent of his daughter’s. He gestured to a chair

across from him.

“Please, sit down. I apologize if my wife was… direct. She has very particular tastes.”

I remained standing. “No apology necessary. Not every client is the right fit for my services.”

He smiled thinly. “Let’s be frank, Eleanor. You know this meeting isn’t primarily about flowers.”

And there it was-the real purpose behind this charade. I set my sample case down carefully. I suspected as much.”

Mr. Bradley leaned forward, folding his hands on his desk. “You must realize you don’t belong in the Wells family circle. Never did,

really.

I kept my expression neutral despite the sting of his words. “With all due respect, Mr. Bradley, I’m here to discuss a potential business arrangement, not my personal life.”

The Bradleys and the Wells have maintained business relationships and friendships for generations,” he continued as if I hadn’t spoken Our families share common values, common backgrounds. Common goals.”

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Chapter 192

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I’m aware of your families history,’ I said coolly.

Mr. Bradley opened a drawer and removed a checkbook. “I’m prepared to make this worth your while. A substantial sum to ensure

you maintain an appropriate distance from Derek.

My chest tightened with indignation, but I kept my voice steady. “You’re offering to pay me to stay away from Derek?”

“Consider it compensation for any… inconvenience. He began writing on the check. “You and Derek are divorced now, but for some reason, he seems unable to make a clean break. This would help all parties move forward appropriately.”

“My relationship with Derek, whatever it may be, is none of your concern,” I said, my voice low but firm.

Mr. Bradley looked up, his pen pausing. The Wells family needs connections that strengthen their position. Someone like Seraphina brings valuable alliances. What do you bring, Eleanor? A small flower shop and no family connections of note?”

The casual cruelty of his assessment hit its mark, but I refused to show it. “Our marriage has ended, Mr. Bradley. But that was our

decision, not yours or anyone else’s.”

“Then why does Derek continue to orbit around you?” he asked, genuine curiosity in his tone. “What hold do you have on him?”

“That, Mr. Bradley, is also none of your concern.”

Just as he was about to answer, a knock came at the door. “Come in,” Mr. Bradley called, and Richards entered.

‘Mrs. Wells and Mr. Derek Wells have arrived, he announced.

Derek POV

I stood in my office at Frontier Capital, reviewing a report on European market trends. Despite the importance of the document, my thoughts kept drifting to Eleanor. It had been days since I’d seen her, since I’d watched her walk away from me at her Newton home. The memory of her standing in the doorway, her face a careful mask hiding whatever she truly felt, haunted me.

A knock at my door interrupted my thoughts. Without waiting for a response, my mother walked in, elegant as always in a tailored white suit, her pearls gleaming against her throat.

“Derek, darling,” she said, settling into one of the visitor chairs opposite my desk. “You look tired. Are you sleeping properly?”

I set down the report, studying her. Catherine Wells never made casual visits. “I’m fine. What brings you here, Mother?”

She adjusted her pearl earring, a gesture I recognized as her preparing to navigate a delicate conversation. I just came from the symphony board meeting. I heard that Robert Bradley has fallen ill.”

I’m sorry to hear that, I replied, waiting for the real reason behind her visit. Ill? Strange, I heard from Alan he was closing the

Harrison acquisition deal just yesterday. What is she planning?

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“It’s quite serious, apparently. His condition has worsened recently. She paused, watching me carefully. “I think we should pay/them

a visit this afternoon.”

I leaned back in my chair, suspicion forming. Wouldn’t Dad or Alexander be more appropriate? I barely know Robert Bradley beyond

business functions.”

“The Bradleys specifically asked for you,” she said smoothly. “You know how close our families have always been. You young people

are more… familiar with each other.”

The implication was clear-Seraphina had requested my presence. I felt a flash of irritation. “Mother, if this is another attempt to

push me toward Seraphina-

“This is about family obligations, she interrupted, her tone sharpening slightly. “The Bradleys have supported us through difficul

times. We owe them the courtesy of a visit.”

I studied my mother’s perfectly composed face, searching for the manipulation I knew was there. ‘What aren’t you telling me?”

“Nothing that should concern you,” she replied, standing. I’ve told Charles to bring the car around at three. I expect you to be

ready.”

I glanced at my calendar, already mentally rearranging my afternoon. “One hour. I’ll spend one hour there, then I need to return for

a conference call with London.”

My mother nodded, satisfied with this small victory. That should be sufficient. She moved toward the door, then left.

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The CEO’s Unspoken love