Chapter 14: The Return of the Brilliant Lawyer
Elise noticed the hesitation on Amelia’s face and misunderstood her concerns. Offering a gentle apology, she said, “I’m sorry for not consulting you first. But truly, you could easily open your own law firm with the reputation and legendary achievements you had back in the day. Once the legal world hears of your return, top lawyers and clients will flock to you. You’d reclaim your career and be back at the top in no time.” Amelia shook her head. “No, I’m just worried… It’s been so many years since I practiced law. What if I’ve lost my edge? I could ruin my own reputation.”
Elise rolled her eyes. “Oh, please. You’re a titan in the legal world! The undefeated legend back in the day! With our help, you’ll be back in peak form before you know it.”
Amelia hesitated, then confessed softly. “It’s not just about that… I don’t want people to know I gave up my career for love, became a full–time housewife, and ended up failing at that too.” Her voice dropped to a whisper. “If I mess this up, they’ll laugh at me.”
“Darling!” Elise smiled, offering reassurance. “You’re overthinking this. Honestly, if it weren’t for all the video calls we’ve had over the years, I wouldn’t even recognize you on the street”
“Really?”
“Absolutely!” Elise confirmed with conviction. “And if you decide to start your own firm, I’ll be there whenever you need me.
Amelia straightened her back and, with renewed determination, said, “I’ve made up my mind. We’re going back to Fairfield. But let’s pot change the firm’s name. I want to keep things low–key.” “Perfect” Elise practically leapt out of her seat in excitement. She headed for the liquor cabinet. “We have to celebrate this kind of decision!”
Pouring two glasses of wine, she handed one to Amelia and clinked their glasses together. To countless victories in our future! To a long and successful career!”
Saturday morning, Elise woke Amelia up early, practically brimming with excitement. “To celebrate your return to the legal world, how about we max out a few credit cards today? My treat. suits, matching accessories, and a briefcase that fits your aura.”
- at. You need some new
Amelia felt a long–lost sense of excitement stirring inside her. The idea of diving back in thrilled her. “What are we waiting for? Let’s go.”
Their first stop was to check on the progress of the jade pendant Amelia’s mother had left her. The repair was taking time, as Amelia had requested a flawless restoration. Given its sentimental value, the work had to be perfect, and it was only halfway done.
Afterward, Elise took Amelia to a high–end custom tailoring shop to get her measurements. Choosing suit styles became an event in itself. Amelia tried on outfit after outfit, looking to Elise for approval. Each time Elise shook her head, she’d move on to the next one.
Watching Amelia’s professional elegance shine through, Elise couldn’t help but sigh. “I swear, if Richard saw you like this, he’d thank me for life. No–better yet, someone should call Chad and show him just how blind he is.”
Once the suits were chosen, the two moved on to a Fifth Avenue jewelry boutique. The dazzling collection of accessories sparkled under the carefully arranged lighting. Elise’s eyes lit up like a dragon spotting treasure, and Amelia was no different. She wandered to the glass displays, carefully selecting pieces she liked.
The shopping spree felt like a Black Friday haul. Anything they liked, they bought. To thank Elise for all her support over the past few days, Amelia gifted her a watch worth hundreds of thousands of dollars. But then again, it was nothing compared to the ruby pendant Amelia had given her in the past.
By the time they left the luxury store, it was already afternoon. Neither of them felt tired. If anything, they were energized, partly because Elise was a VIP at nearly every shop, meaning their purchases would be delivered directly to their homes, and partly because shopping was, as they joked, the best way to recharge.
Amelia suggested, “Let’s look at cars. I need a great one to boost my work efficiency.”
Though Amelia wanted to keep a low profile, she knew clients often judged their lawyers by the cars they drove. A luxury car would subtly reinforce her credibility and save her unnecessary effort in gaining their
trust.
She also planned to gift Elise a car worth at least a million dollars. While their bond was as close as sisters, Amelia didn’t want Elise to feel like she was the only one giving in their relationship. Balance was important to her,
“Sure! I’ve been getting tired of my Porsche anyway.”
The two headed to a luxury car dealership, chatting excitedly as they browsed models and debated colors.
Then, a scornful female voice interrupted their conversation. “This place is really going downhill. They’ll let just anyone walk in here these days. Miss Ainsworth, I know you’ll never afford these cars in your lifetime, so I understand your curiosity. But I’d advise you to keep your distance. A single scratch on the paint could bankrupt you–or worse, land you in jail.”
Both women turned toward the voice. Standing there was a woman in her early thirties, exuding the same cold arrogance as Chad. Her gaze was filled with disdain and sparks of hostility.
Amelia frowned. It was Chad’s sister, Celine Weatherfield
