Chapter: 134

“Ashley, please take a seat," the manager offered warmly, pouring a cup of coffee for Ashley as she settled in.

Ashley took the seat, perceiving the manager as insightful and keen to make a good impression.

“How has your first day been?"

"Quite well, thank you for asking."

The manager observed her composed response and felt a twinge of unease. “Ashley, has Mr. Hewitt given you any particular directions? You may have noticed our branch doesn't quite match up to headquarters."

A flicker of satisfaction crossed Ashley's face, her ears tuned to the murmurs of her new colleagues. "You're being too humble. I believe the branch operates quite smoothly, and I'll make sure Alan hears about it."

When he heard this, the manager's tension seemed to melt away. "Thank you."

"It's my pleasure."

“It's genuinely a shame for someone with your expertise to be here. I will make sure the team knows to make your stay as comfortable as possible."

“That's very generous of you."

With a respectful nod, the manager escorted her from his office, and every employee in the department followed their movement.

This scene only sparked further gossip about Ashley.

Ashley allowed the rumors to swirl unchallenged, quickly adapting to her new role at the subsidiary.

Before long, whispers of Ashley and Alan's supposed relationship began to weave through the corridors of the company.

"Did you catch the latest? The new high-profile employee is Mr. Hewitt's mistress."

“It makes sense why she's so lavish. Just look at her, decked out in designer gear from head to toe."

“Absolutely. She's not really here to work, she's just enjoying herself."

“We're just not in her league. She'll likely be moved back to headquarters before we know it.”

“We'd better stay in her good graces."

Ashley had only been at the subsidiary for two days when she received the opportunity to coordinate with the main office.

The shrewd manager, hoping for praise at the main office, entrusted her with the task.

Eager to establish connections, Ashley accepted without hesitation, collected the files, and drove to the main office.

Upon arrival, she called Alan. "Alan, I'm at the main office on business, and I haven't had a chance to grab lunch. How about we catch up over a meal?"

Alan hesitated, about to decline, when Ashley pressed on.