Chapter six: The meeting

Cassandra returned to the guest house, disappointment weighing her down. She had lost a great job she got within a day.

She knew she wasn't emotionally ready to work but she had to. As she walked in the manager, intercepted her.

"Miss, we need to discuss changes in our pricing. Starting next week, room rates increase by 20%."

Cassandra nodded, concern all over her face.

She hurried to her room, calculations racing in her mind. She checked her funds.

The price hike would cover less than two weeks' accommodation. Food expenses would drain her remaining resources.

Panic crept in.

A job was no longer a want; it was a necessity. Cassandra slumped onto the bed, her phone beckoned.

She dialed Mildred's number.

"Mildred, I really need a job."

"But you said Crepe marketing gave you a good offer, so?"

"I lost it...i lost it Mil. I lost focus." Cassandra replied.

"Oh no! But they would have given you more time to see if it's just a day's thing."

"You don't understand Mil, data compilation is very sensitive. One mistake can ruin everything." She said admist light sobs.

"Be calm Cass, you'll be fine soon." Mildred reassured. But soon wasn't an option.

Time was running out.

Claus sat in his spacious office, brow furrowed.

"Emma, we have a problem," he said to his PA.

Emma's expression turned serious.

"Financial irregularities," Claus elaborated. "No plausible cause, Emma. I want this investigated."

Emma nodded, jotting notes.

"Complicating factor: merged accounts."

"Both companies are smaller, but I won't tolerate discrepancies."

Emma's gaze met Claus's.

"Who should handle the investigation?"

Claus leaned back.

"Someone impartial. Outside our usual audit team."

Emma nodded.

"I'll find someone. Discreetly."

Claus's jaw clenched.

"Get to the bottom of this, Emma."

Jim sat at his desk, focused on the documents in front of him. His phone rang, breaking the silence. He answered, expecting a business call.

"Hey, Jim. It's Mildred," Cassandra's sister said, her voice cheerful.

Jim's expression turned guarded. "Mildred. What's up?"

"Just checking on you. How are you doing today?" Mildred asked.

Jim's unease grew. Her sudden closeness felt unnatural. Yesterday's scene replayed in his mind – the almost-kiss, the spark between them. He felt terrible.

"Mildred, I appreciate your concern, but I'm fine," Jim said, keeping his tone neutral.

"Okay, well, take care, Jim. Bye," she said.

The line went dead. Jim's thoughts swirled.

Why was Mildred being so friendly?

Shouldn't she be angry for her sister?

Or was she trying to get back at him by been friendly?

Jim's mind racing, he dialed Cassandra's number without hesitation.

"Hello," she answered.

"We need to talk," Jim said, his voice low.

"When?" Cassandra asked.

"Tonight. 7 pm. The spot."

"Okay."

The brief conversation did little to ease Jim's turmoil.

As he hung up, his thoughts lingered on Mildred's sudden interest. He couldn't shake the feeling that he was trapped in a delicate dance.

Cassandra's eyes lit up after the call. A spark of hope reignited within her, she really needed the audience to prove her innocence. Quickly, she dialed Mildred's number.

"Mill its me again," she said, trying to contain her excitement.

"Hey, Cass! We just spoke not long ago.What's up?" Mildred replied.

"Jim wants to meet me tonight. I need you to come with me," Cassandra requested.

Mildred's tone shifted from casual to cautious. "Just like that? I honestly don't think it's a good idea."

"I know, I was surprised too. But come on, it's great at least I have the chance to prove my innocence." Cassandra explained.

" And if he breaks you further Cass?"

"I know you're concerned Mill but I'll take my chances." Cassandra replied.

Mildred hesitated at first and finally agreed. After the call,she quickly grabbed her bag and left the cafe for home, after lying to her mother she wasn't feeling well. Quickly she changed into a provocative outfit:

A fitted, red mini skirt hugged her curves, showcasing her toned legs. A blouse with its top buttons undone revealed a generous glimpse of her plump breasts.

Her hair was tied in a sleek bun, with loose curls framing her face.

Light makeup accentuated her features, and a sly smile played on her lips. This wasn't for Cassandra's meeting; Mildred had other plans.

A taxi dropped her at Ryman Enterprises, a subsidiary of Clade Industries and also Jim's place of work.

With confident strides, Mildred entered the sleek lobby. The receptionist, Karen, taken aback by her bold attire, hesitated.

"Can I help you?" the receptionist asked.

"I have an appointment with Jim," Mildred replied.

Karen raised an eyebrow. "I don't see your name on the schedule."

Mildred's smile never wavered. "Check again. I assure you, it's been arranged. Or better still, ring him and say it's Mildred."

After a brief pause, karen nodded and rang Jim's office. She scanned her carefully after the call. "Very well. Mr. Jim is expecting you." She said and described the office.

Mildred's eyes sparkled as she walked. She knocked briefly before entering Jim's office. His eyes locked onto hers, and his gaze devoured her sultry appearance.

She sashayed toward him, her hips swaying, and settled into the chair opposite his desk. Crossing her legs, she intentionally widened her blouse, revealing more of her bosom.

Jim's self-control began to unravel. He stood, his eyes fixed on hers, and approached her.

"Mildred, what brings you here?" he asked, his voice husky.

She rose, her smile intoxicating, and gazed up at him. Her fingers traced the contours of his chest, sending shivers down his spine. Jim's resolve crumbled. He tried to push her away, but his hands hesitated.

"Cassandra..." he whispered, his conscience faltering.

Mildred's voice was a sultry whisper. "She cheated on you, Jim. On your wedding eve. Doesn't that mean she's fair game?"

Jim's desire overrode his guilt. He crushed his lips to Mildred's, surrendering to the passion.

The office around them faded as they succumbed to their desires. Papers scattered, and the table creaked beneath their fervent embrace.

Their lovemaking was intense, fueled by hidden agendas.

Afterward, they parted, breathless and entwined.

"What have we done?" Jim whispered, his conscience reawakening.

Mildred's smile was triumphant. "We've sealed our fate, Jim. Together."

As the evening approached, Cassandra's nerves began to flutter. She dressed carefully, seeking Mildred's approval, who was at the guest house to keep her company before they both leave for the meeting.

"You look stunning, sis," Mildred said, adjusting Cassandra's hair.

At the designated meeting spot, Jim waited, looking tense. His eyes stared deep at Cassandra, then shifted to Mildred.

"Cassandra, thanks for coming. And Mildred... I didn't expect you to join," Jim said, his tone mixed with guilt knowing what he and Mildred did would complicate things.

Mildred's expression remained guarded. "I'm here for Cassandra."

Jim nodded. "Let's talk inside."

As they entered the secluded café, Cassandra's heart pounded. What did Jim want to discuss? Was he finally willing to listen and believe her?

The air was thick with unspoken questions, setting the stage for a potentially explosive conversation.

Cassandra sat beside Jim, her eyes filled with anticipation. Mildred, opposite him, seemed serene, but her legs told a different story.

"I won't waste your time," Jim began, not giving Cassandra a chance to speak and avoiding eye contact. "I have something to tell you... I'm glad Mildred is here."

He took a deep breath, steeling himself. He had to tell her, so it wouldn't look like betrayal when she found out.

"It's about Mildred's behavior... and mine." Jim's voice faltered.

Mildred's leg slid under the table, her toes grazing Jim's calf. He shifted uncomfortably.

"Cassandra, I need to be honest..." Jim's words trailed off.

Mildred's foot inched higher, rubbing against his thigh. Jim's pulse quickened.

"Cassandra, please listen..." Jim tried to focus.

Mildred's leg pressed against his crotch, sending a jolt through him. Jim's eyes darted to hers, but her expression remained innocent.

"Cassandra, I..." Jim's voice died on his lips.

The café's background noise faded as the tension at the table escalated.

Cassandra's eyes narrowed. "Jim, what's going on?"

Jim's gaze locked onto Mildred's, his thoughts racing. And then, just as he was about to speak...

"Mildred, stop," Jim whispered, his voice barely audible.

But Mildred's smile only grew, her leg continuing its subtle seduction.