Never Forgive Never Forget (Celeste and Philip) novel Chapter 94

Beverly was so startled she gawked, eyes wide, then spun on her heel and hurried out without looking back.

"You—you're serious… Fine, I'm gone! I won't come back, ever!"

Bang—

The front door slammed behind her.

On the other end of the line, Irma sounded puzzled. "What just happened?"

"Just a coward who practically wet herself and ran off," Celeste replied with a resigned smile.

With the police officer's voice mingling with Irma's on the phone, Beverly had panicked and bolted—if that wasn't cowardice, what was?

Celeste went back to discussing work matters with Irma.

By noon, Celeste was heading downstairs for lunch. As she reached the elevators, her phone rang again—Irma.

"The Robertson Group sent up an assistant who's eager to meet with you. Beverly let her through. Mr. Robertson will be arriving soon as well, and upper management's agreed you'll handle the reception," Irma reported.

It was obvious Beverly and Herbert had volunteered her for this—meddling as always.

But since they'd already sent the assistant upstairs, Celeste, as the Duncan Group manager, had no choice but to play host.

She waited by the elevator for a moment.

Then, a voice called out from the stairwell nearby.

"Celeste, it's me."

She turned toward the sound.

Viola stood there in a pale, simple dress, looking especially fresh and innocent.

"Viola? I didn't know you were working as an assistant for the Robertson Group now," Celeste said, eyebrow raised.

Viola flashed a smug smile. "Wherever Philip goes, I go. Titles don't matter—I just have to say the word. But you, even now, after snaring a man like Mr. Alfred, still have to skulk around as the other woman."

She sneered, her tone dripping with contempt. "You used to act so high and mighty. Now look at you—lost Philip, and started chasing after someone else's husband. How do you even stomach being so shameless? Always wanting your cake and eating it too."

Celeste folded her arms, exasperated. "I think it's your mouth that's truly filthy. I'm surprised Philip can even stand to kiss you."

Viola's hands balled into fists as she forced a calm smile. "You talk a good game, but if you're really so capable, why don't you oust Mrs. Hopkins and take her place? Stop clinging to Alfred while stringing Philip along."

Celeste gave an icy chuckle, eyes cold. "Right back at you, Viola. If you're so competent, win over Abelard Robertson—become Mrs. Robertson in your own right. Why are you bouncing around in front of me like a desperate flea?"

"I will get Philip. And you… you're the perfect stepping stone."

With that, she inhaled the pollen in one sharp breath.

She's lost her mind!

Is she trying to kill herself?

Celeste lunged, trying to snatch the sachet away, but Viola jerked back, coughing violently as she staggered toward the stairwell.

Danger!

Celeste reached for her arm, but Viola shoved her away with all her strength.

Clenching her jaw, Viola threw herself down the stairs.

At that moment, the elevator doors slid open. Philip burst out, just in time to see Viola tumbling down the stairwell, with Celeste frozen at the top, arm still outstretched.

His eyes went wild with panic. He shoved Celeste aside and sprinted after Viola.

"Move! Viola!"