A sleek, black car glided through the city streets, its soft hum of the engine breaking the oppressive silence. Mr. Wright gripped the wheel tightly, his eyes fixed on the road ahead. Beside him, Valerie stared out the window, her joy could not be concealed.
Mr. Wright's mind swirled with questions. Why would Greg give Valerie the coveted Maison de la Mer contract? If Valerie was just an employee, it would mean that she had no use for the contract, unless she had her own company… But that was farfetched.
He glanced at Valerie, her elegant profile illuminated by passing streetlights. Mr. Wright yearned to ask, to be a part of his daughter's life, but hesitated. Fearing that she might misunderstand him, or accuse him of poke nosing.
Valerie settled into the plush armchair, a warm smile still gracing her lips. "Ask your questions, Dad," she invited, her voice relaxed and inviting.