Bartlett stared at her with an intense gaze. "You and Theo never really tied the knot, you know. That ceremony was just a ruse to make his old man happy, and you didn't even have any significant witnesses.
Now, you're basically working for their family without any official recognition. No matter how much you do for them, the day they decide you're no longer of use, they can cut you loose. And then, you'll be left with nothing."
Ellinor hit the return key one last time, saving her document.
She then tiredly yawned and turned to Bartlett. "So, you think I'm helping the Blanchets in hopes of getting a piece of their pie?"
Bartlett shook his head. "Of course not. But when they use you and then cast you aside, it's going to hurt."
Ellinor shrugged. "Whether I'm being used or whether I'm doing this with no recognition, it doesn't matter. Until we find Theo, I'll hold down the fort. When he returns, I'll give it back to him, just as it was. Everything else is inconsequential."
Bartlett watched her as he fell silent.
Yes, other women might make foolish sacrifices out of confusion, but Ellinor knew exactly what she was doing. She knew what mattered to her and didn't care about the gain or loss.
Such a girl couldn't be considered astute.
But what drew him to her was this very purity of hers, wasn't it?
With that thought, Bartlett smiled and decided not to say anything that would upset her further.
"Alright, as long as you know what you're doing. Enough about that, Ellinor. Today's your first day as the temporary CEO of Blanchet Corporation, and I came here especially to cheer you on. Do you have time for dinner after work?"
Ellinor took a sip of her bottled water, giving him no quarter. "No time."
Bartlett had expected her to decline, so he quickly countered. "Don't worry; it won't be just us. Your brother will be there too. How about a relaxing dinner?"
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