Aveline thought about Lucas' proposal for three days but couldn't come to a conclusion. That afternoon, she received a call from Barbara.

Aveline was quite surprised and immediately asked, "What's the matter?"

Barbara's aged voice came through, "What? After the divorce, you don't come to see me anymore? I admit I said some harsh things before and forgot some details. Lucas has told me everything; I wronged you."

Aveline was taken aback. This proud old woman was actually apologizing to her? She almost wanted to check if pigs were flying outside.

However, considering she was a sick elderly woman, Aveline decided not to hold a grudge. "I've been busy with work. I'll make time to visit you."

Barbara replied, "Come over this afternoon. I'll send someone to pick you up. There are many things I don't understand, and I want you to explain them to me."

Aveline instinctively frowned. "But..."

Barbara interrupted, "Do I have to invite you personally?"

Aveline felt a hint of pressure. The current Barbara was very different from her when she was ill. Aveline had no choice but to agree. "Alright."

After hanging up, Aveline sat at her desk, lost in thought. It felt like things weren't as simple as they seemed. After all these days, why was Barbara reaching out now? She got up and went to the office to ask for leave from Maria.

Maria was surprised and asked, "Is something wrong? There's a dinner tonight, and I wanted you to come with me."

Aveline nodded. "Yes, I need to visit the hospital."

Maria's expression immediately turned serious. "Are you feeling unwell?"

Aveline shook her head. "No, I'm going to visit a friend."

Maria relaxed again. "Oh, as long as it's not you. Then go ahead. I'll take Sid to the dinner."

When she mentioned Sidney, a playful smile appeared on her face.

Aveline hesitated for a moment and asked, "Boss, about Sidney..."

"Hmm?" Maria raised an eyebrow, looking at her in confusion.

Aveline said, "His situation is unique. If possible, let him focus on designing and earning his performance. He doesn't need to attend dinners."

She tried to be as tactful as possible, but Maria seemed oblivious, smiling as she said, "Yes, he's met a lot of clients recently. It shows that taking him to various social events has its benefits." Aveline fell silent.

Leaving the office, Aveline glanced at Sidney, feeling he looked more haggard than usual.

Sidney stood up to get some water and noticed her looking at him. He paused for a moment before smiling, "Aveline, what's up?"

Aveline asked, "How have you been lately?"

Sidney grinned. "I've landed a few contracts and have been busy sketching. Finally starting to get my mojo back."

Aveline nodded. "That's good."

Just as she was about to say more, her phone rang. The driver sent by Barbara had arrived.

Aveline said, "I have to go. Take care of yourself."

Sidney nodded earnestly. "I will.": owner of this content.

Watching Aveline leave, Sidney reluctantly turned his gaze away.

...

At the hospital, Aveline saw a bodyguard standing by the door of the hospital room.

Did a hospital under the Tudor Group really need bodyguards?

Puzzled, she didn't dwell on it and pushed open the door to enter the room.