Chapter 600

Chapter 600 I Only Admire The Strong

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When Lysander returned to her office, her expression noticeably off. She sat pondering whether to inform Josiah about the current situation.

His recent flamboyant performance during the executive meeting had ignited a wave of speculation. Should these murmurs escalate, Guerra Group would have to devise a rapid response plan to mitigate any potential public relations fallout.

Monica, observing the subtle change in Lysander’s demeanor, carefully placed the neatly arranged files on her desk and inquired with a tone of concern, “Ms. Thorne, is something troubling you? You appeared quite composed just before you stepped out.”

It was only then that Lysander realized she had automatically navigated back to her desk. She swept her hair back, summoning a faint smile. “Oh, it’s nothing serious… Just caught up in some thoughts about

recent events.

The swirling rumors within the company were not issues that could be simply talked away.

Monica seemed to intuitively grasp the undercurrents, nodding with an understanding look. “Did you happen to overhear some of the staff discussing your role? Even though today marks my first day at Thorne Constructions and Energies, it’s clear that wherever there are people, disagreements inevitably arise. This was also true at the branch offices of Guerra Group.”

Lysander gave a weary smile and said, “It was indeed just idle talk,” hoping the matter would dissipate on its own, though feeling somewhat resigned that there might not be any other immediate solution.

To many at the company, she was viewed as merely a figurehead, wielding nominal power that wasn’t genuinely hers.

Seeking refuge in her work, Lysander flipped open the file on her desk, attempting to distract herself from the invasive thoughts.

Monica, empathizing with her strain, brought over a steaming cup of tea, offering both the beverage and some words of solace. “Ms. Thorne, since these are merely rumors, there’s no need to weigh your heart down with them. Tomorrow is another day, and concentrating on your responsibilities is what truly matters. Mr. Guerra once shared a piece of advice that seems fitting now.”

“What is it?”

“You can’t stop everyone from talking. Rather than expending energy fretting over gossip, it’s better to focus on your tasks and let your achievements speak for themselves.”

Nodding thoughtfully, Lysander agreed, “You’re right.”

“These aren’t my words, but Mr. Guerra’s, Monica quickly clarified, “I wouldn’t presume to claim such wisdom.”

Lysander raised an eyebrow, intrigued. “You seem to hold Josiah in high regard?”

*I only admire the strong,” Monica stated simply, leaving Lysander to ponder the complexity of Josiah

It seemed like he was truly a different person outside and at home.

08:09 Sat, 22 Jun MT

Chapter 600 1 Only Admire The Strong

a man who would humbly learn how to massage and prepare apples for his partner.

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Now, he had even taken up cooking, apparently competing not just with Adrian or Joseph, but perhaps with himself.

Josiah: Did your forming go smoothly?

Lysander glanced over, replying: Yeah.

Josiah: What would you like for breakfast tomorrow?

Lysander: Anything is fine.

Josiah: I’ll ask Martha to teach me how to make croissants since you like them.

Lysander: They sell those downstairs.

Josiah: But the food outside isn’t as clean, and it’s certainly not as nutritious,

Lysander paused, her finger hovering over the phone screen, unsure how to continue. Another message popped up.

Josiah: I won’t keep you. Don’t overdo it. Remember to take breaks.

Switching off her phone, Lysander picked up the cup, a delicate fragrance blossoming on her tongue, revealing layers of subtle sweetness upon careful tasting.

She realized the tea wasn’t the usual office supply but the specific kind she used to enjoy at a holiday resort. Confused, she turned to Monica, asking, “Did you bring this tea yourself?”

Monica replied, “No, it was Carol who brought it, even including instructions on how to brew it correctly.”

Lysander nodded slowly, absorbing the information.

Carol was a close confidant of Josiah, and most arrangements she handled were likely under his directive. Lysander hadn’t anticipated that he would extend his thoughtfulness to the extent of delivering her

favorite tea.

As she sipped her tea, Lysander’s thoughts gradually settled. It wasn’t until later that afternoon that she received an unexpected call from Howard. After a brief hesitation, she answered.

“Mr. Thorne, did you need something?” she asked, mindful of maintaining professionalism during work

hours.

Howard’s voice came through with a touch of concern. “Is everything going smoothly at the company? I’ve heard from Josiah that not everyone is convinced by your leadership. Once I’m out of the hospital, I’ll make it a point to address these doubters.”

Despite her discomfort with his overt care, Lysander responded reassuringly, though she sounded distant. “Everything’s fine. Mr. Guerra has made a point of visiting, and with a competent assistant by my side. I’m adapting well,” she said, opting to share only the good news, not wanting him to worry about her affairs

Howard expressed his relief. “That’s good to hear. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you face any challenges.

“Okay.”

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Chapter 600 | Only Admire The Strong

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As they spoke, a new notification appeared on her computer screen, signaling an incoming message from the company’s internal chat group.

“Do you need anything else? I have some work to attend to,” Lysander said, bringing their conversation back to a professional focus.

“There’s one more thing.” Howard hesitated before sharing more personal news, “The doctor mentioned your mother is recovering well. She might be able to leave the hospital soon.”

“That’s wonderful news,” Lysander responded genuinely, her voice filled with relief.

Howard continued, “She’s been in the hospital for so long; she must be eager to return home.”

Their relationship, though formally acknowledged, lacked the warmth of close familial ties as they barely lived together, making their conversation somewhat strained. Howard then brought up another family

matter.

“By the way, I visited your sister today. She’s recovering well enough to walk on her own. She was discharged today, and I thought it might be nice to invite her and your adoptive parents over to our place. What do you think?”

“If they agree, I naturally have no objections,” Lysander replied, remembering the emotional scenes in the hospital but preferring not to force a reunion. “It’s just that Michelle has just recovered. She should head home after being discharged.”

Howard, sensing her hesitation but seizing the moment, added. “We spoke previously at the cafe, and I realized I wasn’t very empathetic or clear then. Your adoptive father, given his affection for you, got quite emotional. Now might be a good opportunity for both our families to come together, to talk things over and strengthen our ties.”

Lysander, holding her phone, murmured a soft “Mm.”

Howard expressed, “My intentions are sincere. As long as your adoptive family agrees, you will be considered a daughter of both our families. As for your sister, your mother and I will certainly treat her like one of our own.”

She

His voice cracked slightly with emotion as he spoke. “I know it’s late, but could you come over tonight for dinner? You’ve been busy, and your mom has been wanting to call you but didn’t want to disturb you. misses you a lot…”

Moved by the depth of Howard’s feelings, Lysander felt a pang of sorrow mixed with warmth. “After work, I’ll see what can be arranged. But I need to check with my parents first.”

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