Chapter 1864 Cunning Tactics Elisa's lips curled into a wry smile as she mused, "Ah, | knew these sneaky two must be up to something. So, it turns out this is their little scheme, huh?" Rochelle timely lifted her wine glass, finding it difficult to articulate her apology. However, she comforted herself with the thought that everything would return to normal after today.
She said, "Ms. Benett, | admit | was immature and foolish back then. Here's to making amends and hoping we can move past our disagreements. | know you do not hold grudges, so | ask for your forgiveness." A faint smile played on Rochelle's lips as she anticipated Elisa's impending ordeal tonight. This softened her demeanor, adding a touch of authenticity to her somewhat feigned apology.
Elisa responded with a grin, "Why not? I'm open to it. If you're keen to return to your previous role at the company, you'd have to go through the hiring process. However, whether you're rehired relies on your qualifications and abilities—there's no shortcut.” Paul and Rochelle's faces turned long in an instant.
Elisa was well aware they were discussing Rochelle's reinstatement. However, Elisa made it clear that Rochelle would need to undergo the conventional hiring process.
Did she mean that | have to start from scratch as a junior employee? Would that mean Bella would hold the reins over me? Ridiculous! | won't stand for their oppression! As Rochelle teetered on the brink of losing her cool, Paul shot her a warning glance.
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtGradually, she reined in her frustration and regained her composure. Taking a deep breath, she mustered a somewhat strained smile at Elisa.
"Alright, Ms. Benett. | appreciate the opportunity. How about a toast?" Elisa sneered at Rochelle, brushing off the offer.
Rochelle clutched her glass awkwardly as people strolled past, throwing curious glances and leaving her embarrassed.
The evening had been a lot of fun for Elisa, but she made sure not to lose control by moderating her drinking pace.
She took measured sips or feigned sipping. If her wine glass left her line of sight, she wouldn't touch it again; she'd fetch a new one.
With all these safeguards, why would she even consider accepting a glass from Rochelle? Rochelle took a sip from both glasses and turned to Elisa. "Is this enough to demonstrate my sincerity and convince you that | mean no harm?" Elisa smiled and remained silent. Then, she reached for one of the glasses.
Bringing the glass to her nose, she caught a whiff of the drug's faint scent. Elisa mused. Well-played, but you didn't anticipate my detective skills! Rochelle had the gut to ingest the drugged wine, meaning she had the antidote.
Elisa didn't rush to expose their tactics; instead, she took a drink with a smile.
Rochelle and Paul watched with bated breath as Elisa sipped, her expression becoming contentment.
Especially Rochelle, who grinned and said, "Here's to embracing harmony and starting a new friendship!" Elisa's smile stretched across her face, though her eyes didn't share the swarmth. Following this, Paul and Rochelle excused themselves. Elisa's eyes followed their departure, her smile taking a malicious twist. Although Glacier Isle was a prized property, with no homes built there, they would have to head back to the hotel near the pier for the night.
The Harbor View Hotel wasn't too shabby either.
Thanks to Elisa's considerate planning, departure times were staggered at ten, eleven, and twelve o'clock to accommodate varying resting times.
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏmElisa herself was part of the last group leaving Glacier Isle, along with others like Bella, Gareth, Rochelle, and several others setting sail at midnight.
Prior to their departure, Elisa preemptively consumed the antidote, eager to see what schemes Rochelle had cooked up.
As they stepped onto the ship, Elisa's steps faltered a little. Gareth was quick to offer support, his concern evident in his eyes.
Elisa declined his assistance with a slight shake of her head, assuring him she was okay.
The aftermath of the antidote, combined with the residual effects of the two drugs in her system, left her feeling light-headed.
Gareth gently pressed his lips together. "Stick close tolater. The ship might sway, and we wouldn't want you accidentally slipping overboard." Elisa grinned, conveying her resilience.
While physically weakened, she wasn't so delicate that a gust of wind could sweep her away.