Chapter 58

Raven noticed my sudden stillness and voiced her concern: "Sophia, are you alright?"

The man, overhearing the conversation, turned to look our way. His eyes locked onto mine, and a moment of recognition passed between us. I rose hastily, my heart pounding as I tentatively uttered, "Director Hopkins?"

A bittersweet smile tugged at the corners of Cole's lips, and he nodded. He had been on a business trip and had no idea I'd joined Strakovski Jewelry. The complexity of our emotions swirled, each of us harboring a wealth of unspoken thoughts. After three years of obscurity, Cole hadn't anticipated being recognized by a familiar face.

My mind buzzed with questions. Why the change in surname? Why sever all ties for three years? Did he know Ava had been searching for him?

Witnessing my shifting expressions, Cole deduced my internal quandary. He suggested, "Sophia, come to my office."

Within the design department, the exchange between us was cryptic, leaving onlookers baffled. Whispers circulated: "Why does it seem like Director Hopkins and Sophia know each other?" "I don't think so. Sophia recognized his name yesterday, but didn't react as if she knew him." "You're right. Her expression didn't convey familiarity. Perhaps, since Sophia was newly transferred, she hasn't crossed paths with Director Hopkins before."

I followed Cole into his office and, with a respectful tone, greeted him: "Cole."

Cole glanced at me, a smile touching his lips. "Sophia." A pause lingered, then he continued, "Please, have a seat. If you have any inquiries, feel free to ask." Given our impending collaboration, some matters couldn't be sidestepped.

I nodded, my gaze steady. "Cole, weren't you previously Cole Harris? Why the change to Cole Hopkins? No wonder Ava and I couldn't locate you over the past three years."

Cole's 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 Ava's distraught state from last night in mind, I replied helplessly, "You've forgotten, but you owe Ava a life-saving favor. Your sudden vanishing act naturally has her deeply concerned."

Cole remained unaware of Ava's affections for him, and I was cautious not to rashly reveal them. At the mention of Ava's name, a flicker of amusement danced across Cole's eyes. "I thought she usually maintains indifference to such matters. I apologize."

"You should convey that to her," I said. "She's been genuinely worried about you for three years. But why did you cut contact after college?"

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."

Sensing Cole wanted to avoid discussing the details, I nodded, a gentle smile forming on my lips. "Indeed, it's a pleasure to see you again, Cole."

"I heard a new designer was recommended personally by Mr. Strakovski himself," Cole said. "I was curious about the identity of this designer. And now, I find it's you, Sophia. I've always held you in high regard. Your design talent is among the most exceptional I've encountered." His smile mirrored mine.

"I find that hard to believe," I playfully countered. "Designer Emily's skills surpass mine, don't they?"

Cole hesitated, his tone turning serious. "Perhaps her current accomplishments overshadow yours, but her raw talent isn't on par with yours."

I was momentarily taken aback, before recovering with a smile. "You're just trying to tease me. Keep that assessment between us. We wouldn't want to make Olivia jealous."

"I understand," Cole said. "She holds Emily in high esteem. But remember, your talents are exceptional too; with effort, you'll surpass even Emily."

I intended to jest in response, but the gravity in Cole's 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!"

"Let's go. We should join the meeting," Cole said, rising 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 involving me in the Century Jewelry Competition, wondering if it might trigger unintended anxieties. 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.