Chapter 4: The Price of Truth.

Lie Blu Apartment.

Matilda’s POV.

The shrill blast of my alarm jolts me from sleep, its invasive beeping echoing through my still-dark apartment. Groggy and disoriented, I swipe at the snooze button, my hand slamming down harder than intended.

“Ouch!” I yelp, a sharp pain shooting through my palm. Rubbing the sore spot, I grumble, “Stupid alarm clock,” and squint at the piercing light filtering through the curtains.

Just yesterday, the Chairman dropped a bombshell on me—he’s terminally ill. It feels surreal to wake up annoyed at an alarm clock when soon, someone out there might not need one at all.

Dragging myself out of bed, a heavy weight settles in my chest. Life’s unpredictability makes me ponder: If I had limited time left, what would I do differently? The warm water of the shower cascades over me, but it can’t wash away the chill of that thought.

Have I truly lived a happy life?

Sure, I have a decent job, a roof over my head, and just enough savings for the occasional getaway. But happiness? It seems as elusive as a mirage. As I lather shampoo into my hair, I wonder how I’d feel if I were in the Chairman’s shoes. 

Love, will I ever experience it? 

A bitter smile flickers across my lips. My track record in love is dismal.

Aly never misses a chance to tease me about having had only one boyfriend in college, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. I consider myself the unluckiest lucky person when it comes to romance, always falling short in some way.

Aly is the only exception. I smile at the thought of her, she’s my saving grace, the one bright spot in a landscape of disappointment. I wrap myself in a fluffy pink towel and pad over to my vanity. My big caramel-coloured doe eyes, long lashes, and full pink lips require a little enhancement.

I quickly pull out my skincare products from the drawer. My skin is my pride, and I’d spiral into a meltdown if I found even a single blemish. With the weight of yesterday's news looming over me, I’m even more determined to present a flawless exterior.

I dry my hair and comb it straight, my usual style. My makeup is minimal, it helps me feel polished and professional. I slip into a peach two-piece suit, pairing it with beige heels that click confidently against the floor. Satisfied with my reflection, I grab my bag and head to the kitchen for toast and coffee, stepping out of my apartment with a tentative smile, ready to face the day.

“Willow Inc. HQ, please,” I say to the taxi driver, slipping into the back seat.

As I munch on my toast, I scroll through the Chairman’s schedule on my phone. Thankfully, today’s agenda isn’t too demanding. The meeting with the investor went well yesterday, hopefully today he can take things easy and get as much as necessary.

The headquarters come into view, and the taxi pulls over. “That’ll be 3,500, ma’am.” I hand over the cash and step out, tossing the empty paper bag into a nearby bin. With a smile tugging at my lips, I walk confidently into the building that feels like a second home.

* * *

Willow Inc. HQ.

“Good morning, Miss Matilda! You look stunning in that suit,” Suzy, the front desk manager, beams at me as I enter.

Suzy is a burst of sunshine, her cheerful presence brightening any room. Her 5’0 self embodies a lively spirit, with warm brown eyes sparkling with curiosity. Today, she wears a fitted black dress that accentuates her charming round face, and her short bob sways gently as she grins widely, exuding an infectious joy that makes it impossible not to love her.

Her positivity brightens my mood, and I can’t help but smile back. “Good morning, Suzy. You’re as cute as a button!”

“Thank you!” she replies, her cheeks flushing as she waves her hand dismissively. “Have a lovely day, Miss Matilda.”

“You too!” I wave as I saunter past her toward the elevator.

The elevator doors slide open with a cheerful ding, and I step out onto the polished black marble tiles. The stark contrast between the waiting room and the Chairman’s office is defined by towering glass panes, allowing natural light to flood the space.

The walls are a crisp white, adorned with elegant artwork, while tall vases filled with fresh flowers beckon me closer with their vibrant colours and sweet scents.

To the left of the elevators, a cosy waiting area features plush grey sofas arranged around a small table. A soft white rug lies beneath it, while a bowl of sweets and company magazines rests on the table, inviting visitors to linger. A water dispenser stands nearby, ready to quench thirst.

Further down is my office, painted in warm summer hues that create a calming oasis. My desk houses a sleek Apple computer with a glowing LED keyboard, a humidifier for clean air, and a small mirror beside my computer. A cup filled with stationery sits next to the phone, while a printer and file cabinet occupy the corner.

My glass nameplate glints in the light, flanked by my phone and computer. Sticky notes pepper the small table next to my sofa—remnants of my earlier disorganisation and a testament to my growth since Suzy suggested I use them. That simple idea blossomed into a cherished friendship.

I drop my bag on the sofa and head to prepare the Chairman’s favourite dalgona coffee.

“Good morning, Chairman Willow. I hope you had a wonderful night?” I greet him as we walk side by side. I offer a polite smile to Liam, who acknowledges me with a brief nod.

“I certainly did. The chamomile tea you recommended works wonders,” he replies, a hint of relief in his voice.

“That’s great to hear.”

“I noticed the news doesn’t mention anything about our response last night.” He pauses, a frown creasing his forehead.

“About that—it was originally set to air during the night news, but the reporter decided it would be featured in the 10 o’clock segment instead. It’s the most-watched hour, so many people will hear about your response. You have nothing to worry about, sir.”

“Worried? Hardly! You never disappoint me. You excel at everything you do.” 

His praise sends warmth flooding through me. “You’re too kind, sir.”

“I’m just being honest, Miss Matilda. I figured I should appreciate those around me more now that I’m...” His voice trails off, the weight of unspoken words hanging in the air.

My heart sinks at his casual admission. “Sir! You shouldn’t say that so lightly,” I whisper, scanning the area for prying ears.

“Oh, relax. Now that you two know, I can talk about it freely. Besides, it’s just us on this floor.” He pats my shoulder, a gesture meant to reassure me, but it only deepens the unease coiling in my stomach.

With a sigh, I join him, knowing he’s right but unable to shake off the unsettling feelings that linger from yesterday’s conversation. Liam opens the door to the Chairman’s office for us. “I’ll be right back, sir,” he says before stepping out.

Chairman Willow’s eyes light up at the sight of his beloved dalgona coffee. He sinks into his chair, savouring the first sip, and a blissful smile spreads across his face.

“Ahh, this is my favourite part of the day, Miss Matilda. I must say, you make the best coffee,” he praises, his satisfaction evident. My heart swells at his words.

Today, I’ve gone the extra mile to make it perfect. The shocking news from yesterday weighs heavily on my mind, but I won’t let sadness cloud my dedication. I will serve him better than ever.

Suddenly, the door bursts open, and a frantic Liam rushes in. “I’m sorry for interrupting, but you need to see this right away.” He grabs the remote, urgency etched across his face.

“It’s quite shocking to learn that Mr. Hamilton Willow, Chairman and founder of Willow Incorporated, is terminally ill, isn’t it, Mr. Walsh?” a voice blares from the screen.

“It certainly is, Miss Brooke. Rumours have circulated for days, and the silence only fueled speculation about his condition,” Mr. Walsh replies, his tone serious.

“Indeed. Imagine my shock this morning when I received confirmation from his Executive Secretary, Miss Matilda James,” Miss Brooke continues. “After all the waiting, we’ve received this devastating news.”

“Truly devastating,” Mr. Walsh echoes. “Many are concerned about the company’s future and how his son, Alaric Willow, the notorious rake, will continue his father’s legacy. But first, let’s look at the official article released by Willow Incorporated.”

The article flashes on the screen, a stark reminder of our private discussions. The sound of shattering glass reverberates through the room, and I jump.

“Chairman Willow!” Liam rushes to his side.

My trembling fingers betray me, refusing to still. I shake my head slowly, disbelief flooding my mind. The media’s words echo in my head: “…from his Executive Secretary, Miss Matilda James.” My stomach churns, and my knees buckle. I grasp the edge of the table for support, struggling to breathe.

Liam’s phone rings, breaking the trance. He answers with a heavy sigh. “Now's not a good time, Miss Suzy.”

He steps back, his annoyance evident. “What? Right now?” He turns to me, confusion etched on his features

“Hold them off as long as you can,” he says before hanging up. “Miss Suzy has been trying to reach you. Reporters are downstairs, and shareholders are on their way up.”

“W-what??” I stammer, my grip tightening on the table. Panic floods my system, but amidst my anxiety, a sense of duty rises.

I have to snap out of it.