Chapter 207

Special Treatment

Patriarch Valdemar lay on the hospital bed, gazing absently at the sunlight streaming through the window.

Sophia Laurent pushed the door open gently, carrying a fresh bouquet of lilies.

"Grandfather, the doctor said your fainting spell was mainly due to emotional stress." She arranged the flowers in the vase by the bedside. "A few days of rest, and you'll be discharged."

The old man turned his head, his expression softening.

In the entire Valdemar family, only Sophia addressed him as "Grandfather" so naturally—without a trace of flattery or fear.

"Hmm." His voice was gentler than usual.

The faint floral scent filled the room. Suddenly, Patriarch Valdemar sat up straighter.

"Sophia, I want you to temporarily take over as CEO of Valdemar Holdings."

Her hands, adjusting the flower stems, stilled.

"Me?"

She recalled her promise at the press conference—merely a stopgap measure to stabilize the stock price.

Valdemar Holdings was teeming with talent. The board alone had over a dozen elites. An outsider like her would never be the logical choice.

The old man's eyes burned with conviction. "You."

A rare smile smoothed the wrinkles at the corners of his eyes.

"I believe you're capable."

Sophia pressed her lips together.

She was carrying Alexander's child. Divorce was inevitable. Taking over Valdemar would only complicate things.

But with internal strife and Vincent Valdemar circling like a vulture, the family patriarch genuinely needed help.

"I..."

Seeing her hesitation, he sighed.

"If it's too much, forget it. I'll find another solution."

The resignation in his voice tugged at her heart.

"I can assist temporarily."

With Oliver Granger managing Pearl Group, she only needed to sign off periodically. Helping Valdemar weather the storm shouldn't be an issue.

Consider it repayment for the old man's kindness these past months.

When Alexander woke, this goodwill might smooth the divorce proceedings.

"Excellent!" His eyes brightened. "I'll have HR issue the notice immediately."

He paused, then added, "Come to me anytime you need guidance."

Sophia nodded.

Once committed, she would give it her all.

The patriarch studied her decisive demeanor, satisfaction growing.

Such a remarkable woman. Why couldn't she have been born a Valdemar?

After he drifted off, Sophia visited Margaret's room.

Dr. George Whitmore was just leaving.

"Ms. Laurent." The doctor adjusted his glasses. "Your patient is showing signs of regaining consciousness."

Her heart skipped.

"Truly?"

She'd worked tirelessly to treat Margaret—not just out of gratitude, but because the woman held the complete truth about the switched identities.