Chapter 39
Chapter 39
Drake’s assistant worked quickly, delivering Gabriella’s family address in London by the next day. Looking at the photo of the exclusive Kensington neighborhood, Drake’s eyes narrowed thoughtfully. Perfect timing–he had meetings scheduled with Sterling Industries in London next week.
“If you won’t come to me, Gabriella, I’ll come to you,” he murmured.
Meanwhile, Gabriella had submitted her CV to Sinclair & Klein, London’s most prestigious law firm. They responded quickly, scheduling an interview for the following day. The firm’s reputation would be invaluable for her career advancement.
What Gabriella didn’t know was that Grace had already made her move.
“Everything’s arranged, Miss Bennett,” Sarah Thompson, the hiring manager at Sinclair & Klein, spoke deferentially into her phone. “The interview is scheduled.”
“Excellent,” Grace replied. “Give her whatever salary she asks for, but once she starts, make her life difficult. Handle this well, and I’ll ensure the Blackwood Group’s multi–million pound litigation cases go to your team.”
Sarah could barely contain her excitement. “Don’t worry, I’ll take special ‘care‘ of our new associate.”
In her hospital room, Grace smiled maliciously as she hung up. She’d overheard Asher recommending Sinclair & Klein to Gabriella, and how Gabriella had insisted on applying normally, refusing to use the Rodriguez or Blackwood name for advantage.
“Your pride will be your downfall,” Grace smirked. Her status as Asher’s ward still carried significant weight in London’s business circles, even if she wasn’t a true Blackwood.
The next morning, Gabriella dressed in a crisp white shirt and tailored black suit–classic attorney attire. The firm was located near her old flat, and she considered moving back there if she got the position. It would mean independence from her family’s watchful eyes.
The interview with Sarah Thompson went suspiciously smoothly. Gabriella’s credentials were impressive–top university, three years‘ experience in New York–and they immediately offered her requested salary of £90,000 plus bonuses.
After Gabriella left, Sarah watched from her window. “Shame really. She seems quite capable.”
On her first day, HR showed Gabriella around. Sinclair & Klein was massive, with separate litigation, corporate, and private client departments. Sarah Thompson headed litigation, where Gabriella would work.
They assigned her to share an office with Daniel Parker, a senior associate in his forties. Just as Gabriella was settling in, Sarah appeared with an apologetic smile.
“Usually each associate has a paralegal, but we’re short–staffed at the moment. You’ll have to manage without for
now.”
Chapter 39
“That’s fine,” Gabriella replied professionally. “I’m used to working independently.”
Later, prompted by management, someone suggested the new hires–Gabriella and Lucy Jenkins, a trainee solicitor–should treat the office to drinks after work.
Gabriella found this odd and asked Daniel if it was normal practice.
“Never heard of it before,” he replied quietly.
Staring at the message on her screen, Gabriella’s suspicions grew.
Something wasn’t right.
**
Chapter 40
