The Year I Was the Other Woman To Myself novel Chapter 10

The whole family really did work well together.

“Well, if the company wants to cast me aside now that the hard work is done, there’s not much I can do about it,” Penelope said, taking Rebecca’s hand. “But if you’re the one taking over, I guess I can find some comfort in that. We’re best friends, after all. When you reap the rewards of my labor, you’ll remember the favor, won’t you?”

Her words perfectly framed the situation. The project’s success was her achievement; Rebecca was just swooping in to pick the fruit off the tree. How could the team possibly respect a leader like that?

Rebecca’s smile faltered. “I… I can’t take this project.”

“Then are you going to resign?”

“I…”

“Of course not. I know you wouldn’t want to do that.”

Penelope’s smile was wide and gracious, making Rebecca look petty and small in comparison.

She didn’t let Rebecca accompany her, instead going to Mr. Sullivan’s office alone. He was expecting her and had his speech prepared.

“Penelope, you know I’ve always valued you. When I retire and Zebulon takes over, you will be his right-hand woman, his most trusted advisor. While I’m still here to guide you, I want you to take on new challenges, to expand our horizons. A young person must be tested to be able to handle great responsibility.”

It was the perfect speech to manipulate a naive recent graduate. Unfortunately for him, she was a seasoned veteran.

“I’m not sure I understand what you’re trying to say, sir.”

“There’s a project in Oceancrest I’d like you to oversee. It’s just as important, and you’re the only one I trust with it.”

Right. Send her out of town so Rebecca could come home and have her baby in peace. The family could live happily ever after while she, completely in the dark, slaved away for them. It was a brilliant plan. She had to give them that.

“I don’t think I’ll be going to Oceancrest. My offer still stands: I’ll give up the KINY Group project in exchange for a grand wedding.”

Mr. Sullivan frowned. “I am speaking to you civilly out of respect for you as my daughter-in-law. Don’t push your luck.”

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