THE ELUSIVE HEIRESS

Chapter 11-Congratulations Nora

Nora’s POV

The morning sun painted the skyline in soft gold as Collins pulled his car to a stop in front of my office building. I leaned in and kissed his cheek, his cologne lingering on my nose.

“I’d love to see you again around noon, sweetheart,” I said, flashing him a smile as I stepped out, heels clicking confidently on the pavement.

He grinned and gave me a quick wave before driving off.

As I walked through the glass doors, I felt radiant, light on my feet, like my heart was dancing. I wasn’t just the young CEO anymore. I was someone’s fiancée. Collins’ fiancée. The thought sent a rush of warmth through me.

“Good morning, Miss Nora, and congratulations!” Emma greeted cheerfully, her gaze locked on my hand.

I glanced at the ring and laughed softly. “Thank you, dear. But it’s not Miss Nora anymore. Soon, I’ll be Mrs. Collins.”

We shared a laugh before I continued toward my office, my heels echoing down the corridor like a declaration of joy.

Today feels different. I thought, stepping inside and gently closing the door behind me. I walked over to my desk, placed my bag neatly on the corner.

I feel more alive than ever.

I couldn’t help smiling as I sank into my chair. Being Collins’ fiancée felt like a dream I never dared to dream. He’s everything, charming, strikingly handsome, and a billionaire. And yet, out of all the women who admire him, he chose me.

He chose me.

My fingers brushed over the ring again as I whispered to myself, “No more pressure from Mom. No more endless lectures about settling down. Now, I’ll spend most of my time with the man I love.”

For a second, I wished he were sitting across from me, sipping coffee and smiling as I worked. I miss him already. But I knew what needed to be done.

Procrastination? Not in my DNA.

I picked up the first document and focused. One hour passed, maybe more. My concentration was unshakable, until a familiar knock tapped on the door.

“Come in,” I said, eyes still scanning the paper.

Then came the voice I knew too well.

“Nora baby!”

I looked up instantly. “Soph! Darling!”

She closed the door behind her and walked in with that signature grin of hers.

“Please, have a seat,” I offered, setting the document aside. I already knew this was going to be one of those conversations, the kind filled with laughter, secrets, and knowing smiles.

As she sat, her eyes sparkled with mischief.

“Your mom called me yesterday,” she began. “Wanted to know if you were with me.”

I chuckled, already knowing where this was headed. “And what did you say?”

“I told her you were still on your way to my place. She didn’t ask further. I think she bought it.”

I giggled. “You’re the best.”

Then her voice lowered a notch. “So… what happened at Mr. Handsome’s mansion?”

I raised a brow, grinning. “Guess.”

“Oh please, Nora,” she laughed, “you know I’m terrible at guessing. Just tell me.”

I laughed softly and placed both hands on the desk, fingers dancing with excitement. “He proposed to me, Sophia. I’m officially engaged.”

Her eyes widened as they dropped to my hand. “Wait, oh my God, this ring is stunning! Real gold, right? It must’ve cost a fortune. I’m so happy for you!”

“Thank you,” I said warmly. “I mean it. You’ve always been there for me, always believed in me.”

She reached out, still admiring the ring. “So, did he propose last night?”

“Yes,” I replied, my smile softening as I remembered the moment. “It was beautiful.”

Then her tone turned teasing. “Alright, spill it. Did you two… you know. Sleep together?”

I met her gaze and laughed. With Sophia, nothing was ever off-limits.

“Yes, we did,” I said, cheeks flushed. “And he’s… amazing. Gentle. Passionate.”

Sophia burst out laughing. “Wow! I can’t believe this. Nora Ryan in love, and in bed with a man. You, who once said you’d rather date your career!”

I leaned back, laughing. “I couldn’t resist him. Something about him just pulled me in.”

“Well,” she said dramatically, “I’d better get married before you. You can’t beat me to the altar!”

“What if Collins meets my mom soon and we marry before you do?” I teased.

She raised an eyebrow. “That’s fine. But don’t forget, you’re still going to be my bridesmaid.”

“With a ring on my finger?” I scoffed.

We both laughed until our sides hurt.

“I’m really happy for you, Nora,” she said finally, standing.

“Thank you, love,” I said sincerely.

“I just wanted to see your face and hear the juicy details. I’ll head home now,” she said, picking up her handbag.

“Thanks for stopping by,” I smiled. “Bye, Soph.”

She waved and left, the soft click of the door closing behind her echoing in the quiet.

Sophia’s POV

As I walked down the hallway, I couldn’t stop smiling. My best friend, Nora Ryan, is in love.

“Nora in a relationship?” I whispered to myself, shaking my head and giggling. “With Collins, no less…”

I knew her better than anyone. She used to shrug off love like it was an unnecessary accessory. She once turned down three billionaire suitors in a single month. And now? Now she’s wearing a ring and glowing like the sun.

“My Nora baby is truly in love,” I said, laughing quietly as I stepped into my car.