True Heiress Returns to Her Unemployed Rich Family (Arabella) novel Chapter 649

Colton's voice carried a hint of unease over the phone. "Horizon Corp wants me at their new product launch seminar."

Ever since his close call with having his cover blown, he'd been avoiding any work that required showing up at Horizon Corp in person. Anything his assistant could handle, he delegated.

But this time, Andy had made it clear—his presence was non-negotiable.

"When is it?" Arabella asked.

"Day after tomorrow." Colton sounded tense. "I don't know, it feels like some kind of setup. Like they're trying to out me or something."

Arabella found it both amusing and a little sad. "You're overthinking it."

"But it's Mr. Stewart we're talking about!" He didn't want to be paranoid, but he couldn't help it.

"Relax," she reassured him. "Launch events and promotions are your thing. Just go and do what you always do."

"But what if they ask me to sketch something on the spot? Or explain design concepts? I could totally freeze up." His worry was palpable.

"You've been around this industry for years. That's not going to throw you." Arabella chuckled softly. "Just keep your cool and act natural."

Aside from not being able to draw, Colton was solid in every other way.

"Honestly, after all this time working with me, you're practically an expert by osmosis," she encouraged.

Colton took a deep breath. "Alright, okay. I'll do it."

"You'll be fine," she said soothingly.

He still felt the need to add, "But just... be ready, in case I do mess up."

If things went south, he wanted her to have a backup plan.

"It's really not that serious. If it happens, we'll just come clean." It was only an identity, after all—nothing fabricated.

"Wait, let's get one thing straight," Colton cut in. "If I blow it, you're not allowed to hold it against me."

"Fine, I'll even treat you to a nice dinner," she teased.

"Well..." He sounded slightly embarrassed. "I'll do my best not to screw up. It's just... being around Mr. Stewart makes me lose my confidence."

"You've got this. Don't worry."

"Okay."

After hanging up, Arabella shook her head with a light laugh. "He's not some monster. Look how nervous you are."

It was the first time she'd seen Colton so rattled.

On his end, Colton set down his phone and let out a long sigh.

He drew another breath, steadying himself. "Just go and handle whatever comes."

*****

The sun was dipping low in the west when Arabella returned to Cloudrise Manor.

Medical kit in hand, she stepped into the villa and immediately noticed an unexpected presence—Naomi.

She frowned slightly. So Naomi was back.

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