Chapter 77 d my sudden stillness and voiced her concern , Skylar , are you alright ? Raven noticed my The man catching wind of the conversation , turned to look our way .
His eyes locked onto mine , and a moment of recognition passed between in I rose from my seat hastily , my heart pounding as I tentatively uttered , Director Hopkins ? A bittersweet smile tugged at the corners of Coles lips , and he nodded .
Skylar .
He had been on a business trip before and had no idea that I had joined Strakovski Jewelry The complexity of our emotions swirled , each harboring a wealth of unspoken thoughts .
After three years of obscurity , Cole hadnt anticipated being recognized by a familiar face .
My mind buzzed with a multitude of questions , uncertain where to begin .
Why the change in surname ? Why sever all ties for three years ? Did he know that Ava had been searching for him ? Witnessing my shifting expressions , Cole deduced my internal quandary .
He suggested , Skylar , come to my office .
Within the design department , the exchange between us was cryptic , leaving the onlookers baffled .
What was going on ? Why does it seem like Director Hopkins and Skylar know each other ? I dont think so .
Skylar recognized his name but didnt react as if she knew him when she heard it yesterday .
Youre right .
Her expression didnt convey familiarity .
Perhaps since Skylar was newly transferred to the design department , she hasnt crossed paths with Director Hopkins before .
I followed Cole into his office and regarded the man seated at the desk .
With a respectful tone , I greeted , Cole ! Cole glanced at me , a smile touching his lips .
Skylar ! A pause lingered , then he continued , Please , have a s seat If you have any inquiries … feel free to ask .
Given our impending collaboration , some matters couldnt be sidestepped I nodded , my gaze steady .
Cole , werent you previously Cole Harris ? Why the change to Cole Hopkins ? No wonder Ava and I couldn locate you over the past three years .
Coles surprise surfaced briefly , followed by a self deprecating chuckle .
The surname alteration was a family decision .
But tell me why were you seeking me out ? Keeping Avas distraught state from last night is mind , I regarded Cole with a complex expression , replied helplessly , Youve 11:51 16.9 % Chapter 77 Forgotten , but ymt owe we Ava a life saving Lavor .
ne .
Your sudden vanishing act naturally has her deeply concerned .

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Cole remained unaware of Avas affections toward him , and 1 was cautious not to rashly break it .
At the mention of Avas name , a flicker of amusement danced across Coles eyes .
I thought she usually maintains indifference to such matters .
I apologize .
You should convey that to her .
Shes been genuinely worried about you for three years .
But why did you cut contact after college ? I singgled with my response .
Cole hesitated before explaining .
There was a family issue that required my presence in another city .
I only returned here within the past two years .
I sensed that Cole wanted to avoid discussing the details of the years away from us .
I nodded , lips forming a gentle smile .
Indeed , its a pleasure to see you again , Cole .
I heard a new designer was recommended personally by Mr Strakovski himself .
I was curious about the identity of this design And now , I find its you , Skylar .
Ive always held you in high regard .
Your design talent is among the most exceptional Ive encountered .
Coles smile matched mine .
I find that hard to believe .
Designer Emilys skills surpass mine , dont they ? I playfully countered .
Cole hesitated , his tone turning serious.
Perhaps her current accomplishments overshadow yours , but her raw ralent isnt on par with yours .
I blinked , momentarily taken aback , before recovering with a smile .
Youre just trying to tease me .
Keep that assessment between us .
We wouldnt want to make Olivia jealous .
understand .
She holds Emily in high esteem .
But remember , your talents are exceptional too , and with effort , youll surpass even Emily .
I intended to jest in response , yet the gravity in Coles eyes halted me .
Our exchange was interrupted by a knock on the door .
Director Hopkins , Designer Lopez , Mr Strakovski has called for a meeting with all the designers from the design department ! Lets go .
We should join the meeting .
Cole rose swiftly .
With no opportunity to relay the good news to Ava , I trailed Cole to the conference room on the top floor As Lukas entered the room , he mulled over the idea of involving me in the Century Jewelry Competition .
He wondered if such an endeavor might trigger unintended anxieties for me .
However , upon his arrival , his thoughts were redirected .
There stood Cole and I , engrossed in an intimate conversation .
Our heads were close , laughter flowed , and my eyes sparkled like stars .
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