Chapter 7

"I never expected that your dad owns this company, Joy," Albert said, sipping his favorite latte.

"I also didn’t expect you to help develop my dad’s company, Albert," I replied while stirring my favorite lemon tea. Its refreshing aroma filled the air.

"What blows my mind is this. After years of working together, I only now found out that Albert is my high school buddy," Bradley added.

We laughed. What an extraordinary coincidence that three high school friends had reunited after so many years.

"Well, I’ve never attended a board meeting before," Bradley said.

"But from now on, you’re my assistant, Brad! That’s an order," I declared.

"Yes, ma’am, CEO."

Albert had a thorough understanding of my company’s growth. His dad, Mr. Ian Williams, had been instrumental in the company’s success.

"Albert, I need you to assist me for the next few months. Can you do that?"

"Sure, beautiful. Anything for you," Albert said, winking.

"Hey... she’s a married woman," Bradley cut in.

"What? You’re married, Joy?" Albert was shocked by Bradley’s words. He looked at me intensely, almost in disbelief.

"Yes, and I have a kid too," I replied.

I thought I saw disappointment on Albert’s face. Maybe it was just my imagination.

"Alright. This meeting is over. Next, we need to prepare for Uncle Benny’s farewell party next week. Bradley, I’m leaving all the arrangements to you. I want to invite employees from all the departments."

"Got it, Joy."

"I’m heading out." I stood up and shook hands with the two men.

"Joy, did you bring your car?" Albert asked.

I shook my head. Actually, Uncle Benny had offered me a company car, but I refused. It wasn’t the right time.

"Alright. Let me drive you," Albert offered.

"I don't want to inconvenience you."

"Nothing is inconvenient for you, Joy." Albert playfully pinched my nose.

"Hey! You haven’t changed a bit. Still love pinching girls’ noses," I scolded, glaring at him.

"The girls still love it. Hahaha... who can resist a charming guy like me?"

"You’re so full of yourself!" I muttered, though I had to admit Albert was indeed very handsome. I had once thought he would become an actor or model.

"You two are always like this, forgetting I’m here when you’re together."

I giggled at Bradley’s annoyed expression.

We parted with Bradley in the parking area.

I got into Albert’s luxury car. He opened the door for me, still as sweet as ever.

We reminisced about the past during the drive. So many beautiful and funny moments we had shared. Albert also mentioned he hadn’t married yet. Whoever would marry this kind and handsome man would be very lucky.

Since it was still early, I asked Albert to drop me off at a mall near my house. I wanted to buy some work clothes and makeup. From now on, I need to be ready for any sudden meetings at the office. I had to look the part of a CEO.

"Thanks for the ride."

Albert nodded and smiled.

"Take care, Joy," Albert said as I exited his car.

"Okay. See you!" I waved at him.

Albert’s car drove away. I headed into the mall and went to a few stores.

I saw a very familiar figure. The clothes the man was wearing looked familiar. He was holding hands with a young woman. From a distance, their faces weren’t very clear.

Curious, I slowly approached to confirm. But the crowded mall made it difficult to get closer. Eventually, I lost track of them.

I realized it was lunchtime. No wonder the mall was so crowded.

After shopping, I decided to go home. This afternoon, one of my neighbors would bring and introduce me to someone who would be hired as a housemaid.

When I got out of the taxi, I saw Derrick’s car pulling into the driveway. He seemed to be home early today.

The house looked busy as Lorraine and her kids were there.

Derrick got out of the car. I was shocked to see that homewrecker, Kendall, also getting out of my husband’s car.

And I was even more stunned when I saw that Derrick and Kendall were wearing the exact same outfits as the people I saw at the mall.

Kendall proudly carried her many shopping bags. But unlike the branded items I had, hers were from the discount sale at the ground floor bazaar in the mall.

"Did you and Kendall just go shopping, Derrick?" I asked, irritated.

"Yeah. On the way home from work, Kendall asked to stop by the mall. What’s wrong with giving her a lift?" he answered casually.

My heart ached seeing Derrick act like he had done nothing wrong.

"Where did you go, dear? How did you afford all those items?" Derrick looked at me, puzzled, probably just noticing my different appearance today.

"From work," I replied indifferently.

I walked into the house, feeling weak. Lorraine seemed to be having a serious conversation with Ruth.

Both of their faces looked tense. Especially Jack, who appeared confused in the corner of the room.

What was going on?