As Autumn had made an appointment with Andy to have dinner with the Zhao family, she came to Shining Company an hour before her shift to prepare. Inevitably, she ran into Leila at the entrance. And Leila's face blanched at the sight of Autumn.
"Hi, Ye, here you are, " Leila greeted Autumn with an awkward yet surprised smile. It was evident from her expression that, she knew Autumn must have known about her complicity with Paula, but irrespective of that she had to greet Autumn warmly as always.
"Hmm, " Autumn just nodded to acknowledge her greeting without a pause. She felt that this was a never ending drama which she could not tolerate anymore. She forgave Leila over and over again, thinking she would turn over a new leaf, but it seemed that... she had been way too kind towards her.
"Leila." Autumn had already crossed Leila, but she suddenly turned around and called out to Leila.
"Yes, what's the matter, Ye?" Leila asked in a calm tone, but her heart was pounding out of her body with nervousness. She clenched her hand in a tight fist involuntary as she tried to calm down.
"Oh, it is nothing important, " Autumn replied softly, "I just wanted to ask if you aren't used to being here."
"No, I actually enjoy working here, " Leila hurried to answer with a frozen smile, "Mr. Lu is nice to me, and my colleagues are very friendly as well."
"That's good." After much deliberation Autumn finally did not question her about stealing her scheme. She wanted to consult Charles before she could decide what to with Leila.
With the year drawing to an end, Charles had been incredibly busy lately. In addition, owing to the loss of cooperation with Light House Company, he had to work harder to silence the board and ensure smooth functioning. Thus, on their way to the Zhao family, he told Autumn, "So from tomorrow on, I may not be able to see grandma with you as often as I'd like.
There are heaps of job that require my immediate attention in the company, and social engagements are almost arranged right up till the New Year's eve. But you can rest assured that I will come and see her with you when I have time. I hope that is okay with you?" he asked apologetically.
"That sounds reasonable, " Autumn answered in a considerate tone. She didn't mind it. After all, she could go to see her grandmother alone. But in fact what did worry her was that... it meant she would have to delay dealing with Leila.
With the company's affairs all hectic, it was not possible let alone realistic to recruit new employees. Therefore, Autumn planed not to settle accounts with Leila until Charles was no longer busy.
"By the way, Charles, " Autumn suddenly realized something. She paused for a moment before continuing, "No matter how busy you are, don't forget about Chris and Sam. Aunt Jane and Sam met me, they hope to meet our family as soon as possible. You must make time."
"Oh that is no problem. I am certain I can accommodate that in my schedule, " Charles nodded.
Once they arrived at the Zhao family, Amy had just gotten the dinner ready and was setting the dishes down on the table. And she smiled as wide as her face could accommodate once she saw Autumn and Charles.
"Sit down for dinner, " Amy told them happily, which made Abby jealous. "Mom, every time Autumn comes, you cook for her personally, but you never make the time to cook for me at all. You've crossed bounds in partiality, " Abby complained in an injured tone.
"Stop complaining and just eat!" Amy ordered as she broke into a laugh. Then she turned to Autumn and softly said, "Eat up, child. I'll just bring soup and join you."
"Let me help you, " Autumn said, as she got up and followed Amy into the kitchen. "Grandma... "
She called out and then paused for a moment before she added, "Please don't go through the trouble of making so many dishes every time I come. Otherwise, I'll always be worried and pressured about coming here."
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