Chapter Nine: Jade

Claus stood frozen,an empty office stared back at him.

Disappointment flashed to irritation. He swiftly returned to the reception area, Emma who was having a chat with the receptionist,looked up.

"What's going on, Emma?" Claus demanded, his tone sharp. "You told me the lady was ready. I walk in, and the office is empty."

Emma's eyes widened in apology. "I'm so sorry, sir. There's been a misunderstanding."

Claus's impatience grew. "What kind of misunderstanding?"

"The lady is actually in the conference room, not one of the offices," Emma explained.

Claus's quick temper flared. "Get Manager Gad to conduct the interview."

Emma's eyebrows rose. "Sir, I thought—"

"Now, Emma," Claus interrupted, his voice firm.

With a nod, Emma hastily picked up the phone. Claus turned to leave, his mood soured.

"I've lost interest in conducting this interview," he said over his shoulder.

Emma watched him go with concern. An enigma is a perfect description of her boss.

Cassandra checked her watch for what felt like the hundredth time. The door swung open, breaking the silence. A tall, imposing figure entered, commanding attention.

The manager, Mr Gad Robin, stood around 6'4" with a broad, athletic build. His tailored charcoal suit accentuated his shoulders.

A crisp white shirt and patterned tie added a touch of professionalism, Polished black oxfords complemented his outfit.

As he approached, Cassandra's apprehension resurfaced.

"Hello, uhhm,"

"Cassandra Pete sir." She said.

"Hello Cassandra Pete." He repeated with a warm smile.

"I'm Mr Gad Robin, the manager of Clearview enterprises.Unfortunately, the boss couldn't make it."

Cassandra's tension dissipated slightly. She had no idea who the boss was, but she had a feeling he would be extremely strict, but the manager's kind eyes put her at ease.

He sat opposite her, his demeanor relaxed.

"Please, let's get started," he said.

Cassandra nodded, taking a deep breath.

The interview began, Mr Gad's questions thoughtful. Cassandra found herself responding confidently.

After a couple of minutes, Cassandra exited the conference room, the manager's reassuring smile lingering.

"You'll receive a response by the end of the day," he said, shaking her hand.

Cassandra nodded, gratitude in her eyes. She walked to the reception area, where Emma awaited.

"Thank you, Miss Emma," Cassandra said, extending her hand.

Emma smiled warmly. "It's just Emma and you're welcome, Cassandra. Fingers crossed."

As Cassandra left the building, a mix of emotions swirled. Hope and anxiety wrestled.

The sleek glass doors closed behind her. Clearview Enterprises' logo gleamed and Cassandra took a deep breath. Now, the wait began.

Meanwhile, within the building, Emma's gaze followed Cassandra.A thoughtful expression.

"What's your take?" She asked the manager when she walked into the conference room..

"Exceptional candidate," he replied.

Claus sat in his office, awaiting Manager Gad's feedback. The door opened, and Mr Gad walked in, with a smile.

"What's with the sly smile, Gad?" Claus asked.

"I think we've found the perfect candidate," the manager replied.

Claus raised an eyebrow.

"Her credentials are impressive, she sounds smart and alert,"

Claus's interest piqued, he asked, "Her CV?"

Mr Gad extended the file.

Claus hesitated, "Never mind. I trust your judgment. If you say she's good, that's enough," he said.

"Send her an email. She can resume tomorrow. No time to waste," he added.

"I'll send the offer immediately." Mr Gad replied.

Claus nodded. When Mr Gad exited the office,he picked his phone and walked out of his office and the building. He got in his sleek, black Mercedes-Benz, one of his numerous vehicles and drove out of the city traffic, cruising effortlessly. Forty minutes passed, then he stopped before a distinctive three-storey building, Intricate stone carvings adorned the facade. Turrets and arched windows evoked classic elegance.

Claus paused in his vehicle, collecting his thoughts.

A minute ticked by, with a deep breath, he stepped out, the warm sunlight dancing across his face. He walked toward the building.

The heavy wooden door creaked open and the ground floor revealed a spacious, modest living room.

Cream-colored walls and polished hardwood floors gleamed, brown L-shaped sofas formed cozy conversation areas and filled up bookshelves lined one wall.

Classical artwork adorned the others and soft sunlight filtered through sheer curtains.

Claus eyes roamed as an inviting aroma wafted from the kitchen a sense of serenity enveloped him.

He approached the staircase, each step creaking beneath his feet. Claus climbed the stairs, his footsteps echoing, second-floor memories enveloped him. Locating a door, adorned with an intricate lock, he turned the handle, pushing the door open.

Claus entered the serene room, enveloped in soothing darkness. He rushed to the window, flinging open the blinds. Streaks of golden light streamed in, illuminating the tranquil space.

The room's elegance unfolded: the walls adorned with gentle watercolor paintings, plush area rugs in muted hues. A cozy reading nook with leather armchairs. Fragrant fresh flowers on a minimalist side table.

Claus approached the bed, a figure appeared fragile yet radiant:

Her slender face, pale with a subtle glow. Delicate skin, almost translucent.

Sunken cheeks, framed by wispy, silver hair. Eyes closed, her chest rose and fell with soft breaths. An IV line connected to her wrist.

"Jade" he called again softly his voice filled with concern.

Her eyes fluttered open, sparkling with warmth.

"What took you so long?" Jade asked softly.

Claus smiled warmly. "The city's chaos," he replied.

Jade's weak voice continued.

"The new housekeeper... she's so nice..."

"I know, I know." Claus gently interrupted.

She smiled. "How's Clade industries?"

"Good as always, just financial irregularities at Ryman and Clearview. Told you their accounts are merged." He explained.

"Claus you're working too hard...

"Shhh, save your breath." He interrupted.

"It's time for meds," Claus added as the housekeeper, Mrs. Jen, entered with water.

"Perfect timing," Claus said.

Mrs. Jen smiled warmly and Jade nodded feebly.

Claus helped Jade sit up and the housekeeper handed Claus the medication.

He gave Jade the pills with water.

She swallowed, her eyes never leaving Claus's.

"Thank you," she whispered.

Claus's concern deepened.

"Rest now," he urged.

Jade's eyelids closed as she laid back, Claus's gaze lingered then he softly kissed her forehead.

Worry creased his brow. Life was slipping out of his twin slowly...

Meanwhile, Cassandra's phone buzzed. An email from Clearview Enterprises.

Her heart skipped a beat.The subject line read: "Job Offer"