Chapter 29

Outside the restroom, Kayla paced nervously.

Just as she turned, Archie emerged. Their eyes locked.

"Waiting for me?" he asked with a cool smile.

Kayla approached, forcing a calm demeanor. "Could we speak in private?"

Archie arched a brow. "Sure.",

They moved to a quiet corner and sat facing each other.

Kayla twisted her fingers together before asking carefully,′′|sthere any way I can reclaim Cooper Group without joining your company?"

Archie offered a faint smile. "I admire your directness. No games, just straight talk."

Kayla gave a wry smile, her hands still restless. "If I had time,I'd play the long game. But I don't.I need Cooper Group back-soon."

He looked curious. "And what exactly does that mean?"

"You said if I joined Newton Group, you'd return Cooper Group to me."

Archie leaned back, legs crossed, hands clasped on the table, his refined face breaking into a smile. "Do you know why I agreed to work with Perennia Group back then?"

Kayla frowned, uncertain. "Wasn't it because their project had solid potential? Newton Group needed that kind of momentum."

She recalled the timing-Newton Group's deal with Perennia Group had launched right after she stepped away from Perennia.

"I came across a proposal," Archie said, his tone nostalgic. "It blew me away-visionary, one of the most compelling I'd seen in years. I figured any group with that kind of talent was headed for success."

Kayla hesitated. "So, what are you saying?"

Archie met her gaze. "Your name was on that proposal. When Dewitt introduced you earlier, I recognized your work. I just hadn't realized you are Liam's wife."

Kayla's smile was soft, touched with surprise. "That was a long time ago. I nearly forgot I wrote it. Thanks for remembering."

Archie leaned forward slightly. "Your proposals, your ad campaigns-they were bold, creative. As sharp as Liam's, maybe sharper. So why did you step away and become a housewife?"

A flicker of regret crossed her face. "I got swept up in love. Lost my judgment. But pain teaches you things.And now, I've got a chance to set things right."

Archie didn't pry. "The door to Newton GGroup is open. Say the word, and you're in. As for Cooper Group-it'll be yours when the time is right."

Kayla nodded thoughtfully. "Thank you. I'll give it serious thought."

"I'll be waiting," Archie said with a smile.

As Kayla walked away, Archie's assistant approached.

"Sir, she seems close with Jeremy Graham. Are you sure about bringing her on board?"

Archie shrugged. "Jeremy's already got Zoe, and Kayla's married. He won't mind. I care about talent, and she's got it in spades."

In the lounge, Zoe sat across from Jeremy.

As he ended a video call, she quickly offered him a glass of water. "You must be exhausted. Here-drink this."

Jeremy glanced at her, voice neutral. "Shouldn't you be heading home?"

Zoe straightened, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. "I said I'd stay today, so I'm sticking around till you

finish."

Jeremy began flipping through papers, focused. "I've got another meeting online. I'll have the driver take you home."

"No rush. I'm free today. Want a quick shoulder massage?"

Before he could respond, Zoe stepped behind him and gently placed her hands on his shoulders.

Suddenly, Jeremy sneezed and recoiled from her touch.

Zoe froze. "Are you okay?"

Edwin entered just in time. "Ms. Cooper, your perfume is too strong. Mr. Graham's sensitive to it. You should go."

"Huh?" Zoe hadn't expected the extra spritz of perfume in the restroom to cause such a reaction.

Jeremy sneezed again, visibly uncomfortable.

Though clearly reluctant, Zoe gathered her things and left.

Once she was gone, Edwin handed Jeremy a glassof water, then paused. "Sir, your neck!"

Jeremy frowned. "What about it?"

"You've got red spots," Edwin said, alarmed. "Did you touch something? Maybe the perfume?"

Jeremy rolled up his sleeve, revealing more spots along his arm.

He hadn't done anything unusual that day. What triggered the reaction?

"We should get you to a hospital," Edwin urged. "This doesn't look good."

Jeremy waved him off. "No need. There's a clinic here. Just bring me something for the reaction."

"But sir-" Edwin protested.

"I said now," Jeremy snapped. "Stop wasting time." Grimacing,Edwin hurried out.

In the hallway, Kayla nearly collided with him.

"Edwin, what's the rush?" she asked.

"Mr. Graham's having an allergic reaction. I'm getting meds." With that, Edwin rushed off.

Kayla's brow furrowed. "Allergic reaction?" she muttered, stepping closer to the lounge.

Inside, Jeremy looked up. Their eyes met.