Chapter 1025
Hannah's parents lacked any background in kickboxing; their focus remained firmly on business. Not only did their enterprise flourish, but they also managed it effectively. Coupled with their ancestors' achievements, they held substantial shares in diverse industries, recently expanding their operations to Kingsland. They had initially intended to establish Kingsland as their headquarters. This business-centric upbringing left Heather disinterested and impatient with such matters, though she patiently handled necessary affairs. Hannah, to a certain extent, possessed a greater business acumen than her sister. While Hannah occasionally signed documents, she did so meticulously, carefully reviewing project details and often identifying errors or deficiencies. However, Heather prevented Hannah from attending important meetings, fearing scrutiny from senior directors.
Exiting the car, Hannah's demeanor shifted; her gaze hardened, and her voice carried a solemn weight. An aura of authority emanated from her, mirroring Heather so closely that few could distinguish them. Striding into the building, she was greeted with bowed heads and murmurs of "Ms. Riggs." Ignoring the salutations, she proceeded directly to her office. Heather's assistant, Chloe, arrived promptly with a stack of documents.
"Ms. Riggs," Chloe began, "these are the documents needing your signature. Regarding this one, please review your discussion with Mr. Brey. We cannot delay this project further; I require your decision today." She arranged the papers on the desk.
Hannah examined the documents with a frown, then glanced at Chloe. Unaware of the substitution, Chloe, though formally dressed in a professional yet stylish manner, continued. Hannah mused, Even an assistant can pursue her own desires, yet I remain my sister's shadow.
Noticing Heather's apparent inattention, Chloe called out twice, "Ms. Riggs? Ms. Riggs?" Then, cautiously, she inquired, "Did youโฆ not rest well? Perhaps you should rest and discuss this later?"
"It's fine," Hannah replied, waving dismissively. "Leave everything here. You may go."
Chloe hesitated before departing, closing the door behind her. After a few moments' reflection, Hannah commenced her work. She reviewed the documents, signing them only after confirming their accuracyโall under Heather's name.
Over two hours passed before she finished. She then accessed Heather's computer and email, handling any outstanding matters. Initially barred from using Heather's computer, Hannah's competence eventually led Heather to offload her tasks amidst growing frustration. Another hour was spent clearing Heather's inbox. Darkness had fallen by then.
Standing, she stretched, feeling tired yet satisfied. Gazing from the office's large windows, she observed the city's bustling evening activity. The setting sun cast a warm glow on the street below. A strange sensation welled within her. Unlike Heather, confined to the basement, Hannah had glimpsed a world beyond, a world of light Heather would never know.