Chapter 242

"You've all worked hard."

A gentle female voice drifted in from the office doorway.

Wendy West sprang up from her workstation.

"Madam Zade!" She rushed forward in three quick strides. "What brings you here in person?"

A well-maintained woman stood at the entrance, her eyes radiating warmth. She smiled as she surveyed the office, a servant carrying food boxes behind her.

"I heard last night's team building was canceled, so I made some pastries to apologize."

Wendy dramatically clutched her chest. "Goodness, Madam Zade, you're too kind!"

"It's the least I can do." Madam Zade gestured for the servant to distribute the treats. "Xavier owes you all so much."

Xavier Stapleton arrived at the sound of his name, his brow slightly furrowed.

"Mom," he said in a hushed tone, "we agreed you wouldn't come."

A flicker of disappointment crossed Madam Zade's eyes before her smile returned. "I won't stay long. I don't want to interrupt your work."

"Madam Zade used to visit often," Wendy chimed in. "Everyone always loved seeing her."

"Exactly." Madam Zade gave her son a reproachful look. "You never minded before."

Xavier's expression grew uneasy. "I just don't want you exhausting yourself."

Madam Zade's smile faltered for a split second. "A mother's work is never done."

"Nothing compares to your homemade treats," Wendy said tactfully, "but you really didn't need to trouble yourself."

Xavier was clearly trying to prevent his mother's visit.

The odd behavior caught Evelyn Sinclair's attention.

"Mom, let me walk you out." Xavier began guiding his mother toward the exit.

Madam Zade suddenly turned back, her gaze sweeping past the crowd to land on Evelyn.

"That new colleague over there—"

"I'll introduce you another time," Xavier cut in.

Evelyn met Madam Zade's eyes and offered a polite smile.

"Evelyn," Wendy abruptly stepped between them, "want to try Madam Zade's pastries?"

"Thank you." Evelyn accepted the treat but set it aside, lost in thought.

She might have just stumbled upon an intriguing lead...

...

Roman Young hurried back to the office with an armful of documents.

As he passed the copy room, someone called his name.

"Roman."

Evelyn stood inside, beckoning him over.

He scrambled inside, nearly dropping his papers.

"Did you need something, Evelyn?"

She studied his face before handing him a cup of milk tea.

"I saved this for you."

"I—I couldn't possibly..." Roman fumbled to take it, almost spilling his documents.

Evelyn waited until he steadied himself. "Madam Zade brought these. I didn't want you to miss out."

Thud.

Roman's papers hit the floor.