Chapter 2: The Strategy of Capturing the Childhood Sweetheart CEO 1
Elora Carter slowly regained consciousness, only to find herself lying on a grand kingsize bed. Her eyes were drawn to the meticulously decorated, opulent bedroom—clearly, her client hailed from a wealthy family.
"Vixen, replicate all memories and emotions!"
"Understood!"
Suddenly, a flood of the client's memories surged into her mind. Though her mental energy was considerable, the overwhelming rush of memories still made her head throb with discomfort. (In every realm, the client's name was always Elora. As Elora disliked using other people's names, she had asked Vixen for assistance.)
This time, the target of her mission was Lucas Ridge, the CEO of Summit Ridge Realty. The Ridge family, one of the three most powerful families in City A, specialized in real estate.
Lucas possessed striking features: sharp brows, bright eyes, a prominent nose, and thin lips, all framed by a chiseled face that was more handsome than even television stars—he was the epitome of a bachelor in the prime of his youth.
The client's parents had long been close friends with the Ridge family, and she and Lucas had grown up together, their childhood bond eventually leading to an engagement. However, Lucas fell in love with his secretary, Serena.
Serena, a graduate of A University's finance program, came from an average family. Her parents were ordinary office workers, and she lived in an old neighborhood. Although her appearance was simple, there was a unique charm to her, especially when she smiled, revealing two adorable dimples.
Lucas first took notice of her due to her remarkable work ethic. He initially believed her to be a competent and strong woman, but as their interactions deepened, he realized Serena was rather clumsy in everyday life, a stark contrast to her professional persona. His curiosity about her grew, and soon he found himself in love with her. In turn, Serena also began to develop feelings for Lucas.
Once Lucas discovered his true affections, it was only natural for him to break off the engagement with the client.
Upon hearing the news, the client was furious, but due to pride, she couldn't bring herself to beg him to stay. She reluctantly agreed to the annulment, severing all ties with the Ridge family thereafter.
Lucas, after dissolving the engagement, married Serena and lived a blissful life.
As for the client, she never sought another partner. She spent her days regretting, wondering if things would have been different if she had been more proactive.
She had harbored feelings for Lucas since high school, often finding ways to get closer to him, but her pride kept her from confessing. She had let the opportunity slip away and thought that perhaps she could have married Lucas if only she had been more daring.
The timing of the transfer was perfect—this was the sixth day after Elora and Lucas had been engaged. Lucas, consumed by work, had not contacted the client for six days, and despite her longing to call him, her pride kept her from doing so.
"Vixen, have Lucas and Serena met yet?"
"Serena won't be applying for the assistant position for another three months!"
Elora fell into deep thought. Luckily, she hadn't arrived too late. If Lucas and Serena were already in love, things would be far more complicated. With that thought, she drifted back into slumber.
...
"Ugh, so noisy..." Elora muttered in frustration, then rolled over and attempted to return to her sleep. But the alarm clock had no intention of letting her off easily. Finally, she gave in, groggily getting out of bed—it was Monday after all, the dreaded workday.
She wandered like a ghost into the bathroom, emerging moments later after a quick wash. Opening her wardrobe, she found nothing but suits. Though the brands were prestigious, the outfits made her appear rather aged. And not a single skirt in sight. It seemed like a shopping trip was in order.
After rummaging around, she found a white shirt, black pants, and a beige trench coat tucked away in a corner. She tied her hair into a low ponytail, letting her bangs fall on either side of her face. When she looked in the mirror, even she was stunned by the sight of her transformed self.
Her delicate, heart-shaped face, refined features, and especially her peach blossom eyes, which seemed to hold a languid allure, were undeniably striking. Her skin was impeccably smooth, and her aura was elegant yet subtly feminine—she was a vision of beauty.
Admiring her reflection, her spirits lifted, for who doesn't have an innate desire to look beautiful?
With a simple, refined makeup look, she prepared to head downstairs for breakfast.