The afternoon sun poured golden light over the sprawling mansion as Genevieve walked into the kitchen, holding a tray of freshly prepared food. She placed it on the counter and turned to Sophie, who was busy cleaning up nearby.
"Sophie," Genevieve said sweetly, though her tone carried an edge, "Lucien's lunch is ready. Would you be a dear and take it to his workplace?"
Sophie paused, feeling a pang of hesitation. She had no idea where Lucien's workplace was and certainly wasn't eager to ask him directly. Still, she nodded, not wanting to draw attention to herself.
After a moment of deliberation, she pulled aside one of the maids. "Excuse me," Sophie asked softly, "could you tell me where Mr. Lucien works? I need to take his lunch to him."
The maid looked momentarily puzzled, but then smiled. "Of course, madam. He works at the Marchand Enterprises Headquarters. It's the tallest skyscraper downtown—the one with the mirrored glass. You can't miss it."
Sophie thanked her, feeling a small sense of relief. However, as soon as the maid left, Genevieve, who had overheard everything, cornered her.
"What did Sophie ask you?" Genevieve demanded, her voice sharp.
The maid hesitated, then reluctantly answered, "She asked where Mr. Lucien works."
Genevieve's expression darkened, her mind racing. Why would Amelie need to ask about Lucien's workplace? She should already know!. Surely, Margaux came from the garden to drink water so she eavesdrop Genevieve's conversation with the maid."Why are you that interested to know what she said….or not.You are Lucien's Younger sister that doesn't mean you can investigate whatever She does . Remember she will soon be Lucien's Wife.So you better mind your own business."She said and left her alone at the kitchen. Genevieve was really annoyed with what she said.Mrs Madeline on the other hand was working in the garden.
That evening, Genevieve confronted her mother, who had just returned from the Desrosiers' home, looking pale and shaken.
"Mom, are you okay?" Genevieve asked, handing her a glass of water.
Mrs. Miranda gulped it down and then leaned against the counter, her voice trembling. "It was awful, Genevieve. Amelie's parents were shocked—absolutely shocked—to hear she's alive. They're desperate to see her."
Genevieve frowned, her suspicion growing. "Mom, listen. Something strange happened today. Sophie asked the maid where Lucien's office is."
Mrs. Miranda froze, her hand tightening around the glass. "Why would she ask that? Amelie should already know that. What are you saying, Genevieve?"
Genevieve's voice dropped to a whisper. "Mom, I don't think she's Amelie."
Mrs. Miranda's expression turned grave, her mind spinning. "But then how does she know so much about us? About what we did?"
Genevieve shook her head, her uncertainty mirrored in her mother's eyes. "I don't know. But we need to figure it out before she ruins everything."
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Sophie's Visit to The Marchand Enterprises.
Sophie climbed out of the car and stood frozen in awe. Marchand Enterprises Headquarters towered above her, a gleaming masterpiece of mirrored glass and steel. The building seemed to touch the clouds, and its angular design reflected the bustling city below like a modern-day palace.
Inside, the grandeur was no less stunning. The marble floors gleamed under crystal chandeliers, and enormous abstract paintings adorned the walls. A fountain stood in the center of the vast lobby, its gentle splashes echoing against the high ceilings. The air smelled faintly of fresh flowers and polished wood.
Sophie walked toward the reception desk, clutching Lucien's lunch, and immediately felt all eyes on her. Conversations stopped, and gasps rippled through the crowd of employees.
"Is that... Amelie?" one whispered.
"She's alive?" another murmured, their voice filled with disbelief.
"I went to her funeral!" someone else exclaimed.
Heads turned, and whispers swirled around her like a storm. Sophie felt her face flush as people began snapping pictures and taking videos. The weight of their stares pressed heavily on her, but she pressed forward, determined not to crumble under the attention.
A familiar voice broke through the murmurs. "Amelie?"
Sophie turned to see Ettiene, Lucien's business partner and close friend. He looked stunned, his mouth slightly open as he approached her.
"Amelie... I mean, Sophie?" Ettiene corrected himself, his voice thick with emotion. "Lucien just left. He's at the pond—where you..." He trailed off, his eyes darting away awkwardly. "Where the accident happened. He's been spending his afternoons there since your return."
Sophie's heart tightened. She nodded her thanks to Ettiene and hurried back outside, only to find herself surrounded by curious onlookers. The crowd had grown, with more people snapping pictures and recording videos as though she were a celebrity.
"Amelie!" someone shouted. "How are you alive?"
"Tell us what happened!"
Ettiene recognised the seen and gave his commanding word."Get back to Work!."
Sophie's steps quickened, her pulse pounding as she tried to block out their voices. She climbed into the car waiting for her, closing the door firmly behind her.
As the car pulled away, Sophie stared out the window, her emotions swirling. The truth, the lies, the endless charade—it was all suffocating her. She needed to find Lucien.