At the office, Kimberly stared into space, her eyes bloodshot and barely blinking."Excuse me. Hey. Miss Wells? Are you alright? Boss," Noah called out to her, but even her favorite title was not enough to bring her out of her thoughts, until Noah banged on her desk and she almost jumped out of her seat, startled.Kimberly blinked before looking at Noah who was looking at her, concern clearly written on his face."Are you okay boss?" Noah asked once again."Oh yeah. I'm fine. Totally. Why do you ask?" Kimberly asked, staring at him."It's just that, I have been calling out to you for some time now. You look like you haven't slept a wink for the past week," Noah commented, and true to his word, Kimberly did look a bit disheveled. She no longer looked as neat as she used to be when she first became a manager."Oh, I've just been really busy is all," Kim shrugged it off. "I'm the boss here, and we've already sent our proposal to the best company out there. I'm just hoping they respond to
*A few minutes earlier.*Alice stood in front of Rose's desk, begging her to rethink her decision."Come on Rose, try to look into the bigger picture. There is no point in doing this. Besides, you heard what happened after she got promoted," Alice begged her."What do you mean? That was barely the icing on top. I promised I would put her in my position to show her how difficult it can get and how you don't get to do anything without breaking a sweat. Besides, it's not my fault she didn't do her research," Rose said nonchalantly, while picking at her nails."You really are going through with this aren't you?" Alice said in defeat, realizing that there was no changing Rose's mind, especially when she had her mind set on something."Yup," Rose said, popping the p. "Why do you care anyway? It's not like you to insist on anything. Do you have a soft spot for the girl or something?" Rose looked at Alice pointedly.But when she said that, Alice realized that herself. She was always okay with
As Kimberly explained the details of the deal and Rose went through the file in front of her, Zack's attention was on Rose's cold expression.Was this really the same person he met on the ship? This can't be the same person, right?"The deal will last for two years with a total of about four shippings to three countries at our end and for that duration, we will receive regular servicing and calibrations of our machines..." Kimberly was saying when Rose closed the file with a thud, making the meeting room go silent."I cannot go through with this deal," Rose said plainly. "It doesn't look like my company will be benefitting from this in any way.""But Ma'am," Mick spoke out. "If you look through the deal carefully, you have so much to gain from this. Not only are you receiving machines and our services at a discounted rate, but the benefits will also last for a long duration, so any mishaps or spoiled products can be replaced.""It's no wonder your offer is so cheap when you are offeri
'Vaughn's prodigal heir seen making out with a drunk woman.'Zack read the provocative title over and over again, a frown marring his face.He scrolled down and there were three pictures. The first two were of them making out, and the third one was snapped while he supported a barely conscious Rose's arm on his shoulder as he was taking her back to her room.Even though her face was barely obvious, meaning the person who took the pictures was targeting him in the first place, anyone who knew Rose would be able to recognize her and true enough, under that article where other articles bashing the CEO, with some expressing concern about what happened after the third picture, and because she was barely conscious, one word could from someone could lead to serious allegations against him.There were comments under the article and Zack chose not to read them.It was no wonder she was angry at him. To Howler, who had kept her reputation clean all the time when she became CEO, this must be a h
Third person point of viewRose sat behind her large, mahogany desk, her eyes fixed intently on Cade as he entered her office. The soft click of the door closing behind him was the only sound that broke the silence.Cade had a look of determination etched on his face, telling Rose that he was able to find something important about Zack."My investigation on Zack has turned up some interesting findings."Rose's expression remained neutral, but her mind was plagued with curiosity. She had Cade to dig into Zack's background, suspecting that something wasn't quite right about him, yet she hoped everything would turn out fine. She leaned back in her chair, her eyes never leaving Cade's face."Go on," she prompted, her voice even.Cade pulled out a folder filled with papers and photographs, spreading them out on the desk.Rose went through each and every one of the pictures, carefully examining them, but most especially noting how much Zack has changed since then. For one the Zack in the pi
On the day of the meeting, Zack found himself feeling a bit anxious, which was very unlike him. What was it about this woman that threatens to keep him on his toes? Was it the sudden change of character? Who was this woman, even?After the meeting, Zack made sure to have an investigation into Rose, and the result that came up was rather interesting. "She grew up without both parents and was raised by her grandparents who died in a car accident. After that, there was a struggle for power as a certain person, Mr. Montreal tried to take over the company, and he did for almost five years. But miraculously, after a year when Rose started working for her company, she was involved in his human trafficking where she almost got sold, but he was caught and she was able to take back her company and since then, she, had been a rather exceptional CEO. She had never been in a romantic relationship so far and there didn't seem to be anything peculiar about her private life." Zack remembered the priv
Kimberly was filled with glee while watching as Rose signed on the file, handing it over to her new partner, Mr. Vaughn who also signed his part."I guess that is it," Mr. Sanders clapped his hands and everyone followed suit. "Vaughn Tech and Gabrielle shipping are now partners.""Congratulations!" Alice said, getting up from her seat, a bright smile on her face. "Time to take some pictures for the papers." Alice added, bringing out her phone and navigating for the camera.Nick couldn't help himself. Out of excitement, he took out his phone to take pictures while Rose and Zack stood up and shook hands as the flash of the cameras went off.As Kim watched the two of them, exuding confidence and charisma, she couldn't help but desire to be in either of their places.'Why are they taking the pictures by themselves? I worked really hard to make this happen. So why am I not getting the praise I deserve? Both of them look like they are my age, yet they are already so far above me that I can o
Zack couldn't help but feel relieved as soon as the deal was signed.As much as he wanted to pretend that everything was alright at work, he knew more than anything that he wanted to show all these people that he still had it in him and that he was still worthy.While in the restaurant, as they discussed business, Zack looked at Rose, a confident smile on her face which showed off her sense of accomplishment as she talked about the recent business gigs.On the other hand, Zack couldn't help but feel less confident, about the fact that the deal was offered to him on a platter.What does she think of me? How do I prove it to her that I know my around? Zack wondered to himself all throughout."If you will excuse us then," Rose said, standing up and Zack watched with a sense of admiration as her personal assistant, the assistant manager and executive followed suite without being told to do so.How was this woman able to achieve a sense of respect and professionalism among her workers? Zac
Rose was discussing with Mr. Durant when she raised her head and spotted Zack coming towards her. A smile spread across her lips effortlessly. Zack joined her, standing by her side and Rose immediately linked her arms with his as they continued to talk to Mr. Durant. The night went on, and after a lot of music, food and socializing, it was finally time to go back home and call it a night. "You should come to my place with me. "We should have a few things to discuss between us," Rose suggested to Zack as they got out of the ballroom. "Sure," Zack agreed. "Where should we head to now? Should I drop him off first?" Cade said as Zack and Rose entered the back of the limo. "No. Drop us off at my place," Rose answered. "Yes ma'am," Cade replied, throwing a glance at Zack just as the screen rolled up, making a screen for them. "I could have sworn he glared at me," Zack joked in amusement. "Cade doesn't like the idea of me going home with other guys," Rose laughed. T
Rose closed her lipstick and put it back in her purse before turning to face Madeline who had walked up to her. "Long time no see Rose. Who knew we would meet again after so long? You are happy to see me, right?" Madeline smiled brightly. "Depends on your intentions entirely," Rose titled her head to the side. "It's certainly been a long time Madeline. Eleven years if I am correct?" "Eleven years sound like such a long time, but it feels just like yesterday when we clung to each other's arms as we dominated the hallways of our high school," Madeline laughed. "You still think of those times, right? I hear your grandparents passed away not long after we graduated. Are you okay? Must have been devastating. Not having any one of us be there for you. And especially not long after Damian broke your heart," Madeline chuckled. "It was a rough time to go by. But I am more than glad I didn't have any of your fake asses with me. But as you can see, I am doing just fine now. Thank you for
2 weeks laterThird person POVThe ballroom was a majestic space with a high, ornate ceiling and crystal chandeliers that seemed to be made out of jewels. The walls, adorned by tall windows that were draped by opulent curtains, and the floor, a sea of polished marble, reflected the extravagance of the evening.The air was alive with the sweet scent of perfumes, wine and flowers, the soft strains of music coming from the piano, and the hum of conversation, as influential businessmen and business women, wealthy entrepreneurs, and high-society individuals mingled and laughed, their designer gowns, jewels, suits and tuxes spoke volumes of the importance of that night.The atmosphere was electric, filled with the excitement of deals being made, connections being forged, and the thrill of being among the elite.Outside, the evening atmosphere was alive with the flash of cameras from the paparazzi and influencers, all trying their best to take the perfect shot of the rich and famous as they
Emilia's POVI flipped through the never ending pages, my chest feeling heavy and my frustration increasing with each passing second.I looked up and around the almost empty library.It was almost midnight, so it made sense that that there will be less people right now. Or that was the lie I kept telling myself, when in reality, the reason why the library is more empty than it should be, is because most of my mates have graduated.Only six months ago, I had so much hope I felt like I could shit rainbows. But now I am stuck in this stupid dingy place.Knowing that flipping the page won't get the words into my head, I stood from the chair as I decided to call it quits for the night.The next bar exams in in two weeks luckily, and I plan to pass this time.Trudging my way out, I came out of the library and stood still by the road, looking at the night sky, I realized how late it was.I brought out my phone and scrolled through the contacts before stopping at his name.I pressed dial and
Alice looked around the entrance of the amusement park and immediately spotted Chris' back and blonde hair.She snuck up on him and right when she was about to poke him, Chris turned around and she poked his chest instead.Chris looked at her hand poking his chest and then looked at her with his eyebrows raised. Realizing what had just happened, Alice pulled her finger away and closed her mouth with her hands, her eyes widened."Just how much cuter can you get," Chris wrapped his arms around her as he chuckled."I wanted to surprise you," Alice let out disappointedly."I promise you did," Chris told her. "Good thing you dressed warmly," Chris adjusted the scarf around her neck. "The night air might get chilly on those rides. That is if you don't get spooked out first.""Oh please!" Alice rolled her eyes."I've gotten our tickets. Let's go in now.""The first to scream on the wheel buy all the snacks!" Alice said and the two walked in hand in hand through the gates of the amusement par
Third person POV6 months laterIn their vast mansion, the dinner room, might as well be the only time this rich family have a good reason to have to have to meet and face each other.It was silent, save for the clinking of cutlery against ceramic plates, the occasional order to the maids to bring or take a way a thing or the other or the sound of food being eaten.The usual sitting was in order, but the silent animosity between them was unparalleled."Grandma," Marissa spoke up. "Although it's only been six months since Zack started working with you at the company, don't you think he is doing really well?""Uhmmm," Grandma nodded as she continued to eat.Marissa looked at Irene with a taunting face, a smirk on her face but was surprised to find that the latter also had a similar expression on."Grandma, you must have heard about the famous Craig Wallstreet, right?" Irene continued without waiting for Grandma to respond. "Chris, through his persistence and flexibility was able to secu
Alice's POVWho knew that after what felt like a long time I would be meeting him again? And here of all places?Chris was dressed in his white tennis attire, his right wrist had a red band and his left hand held his racket.On the side, the umpire introduced us the players and went ahead to announce the rules of the final match where the winner will take the trophy.I on the other hand, stared at Chris. Did he even recognize me at all? Would he be glad to see me again?As if he knew what was going on inside my head, Chris raised his racket and pointed it towards the trophy which was seated on a table near the umpire, patiently waiting to be taken by the winner.When my eyes followed his direction and saw the trophy, Chris used his racket once again and pointed to himself.I snorted at the action.This is going to be challenging.The umpire announced Chris as the person who won the coin toss, but instead of serving first as usual, Chris picked me to serve first instead."So you want t
Alice's POVFinally, it was the weekend and get to enjoy myself, but first I will have to do some chores.Looking at my messy room, I started by picking up the clothes on the floor. After loading them into washing machine, I put my shoes and bags back into their places, after which I changed my sheets and rearranged my stuff on the vanity and my room was back to looking good.I went to kitchen and had breakfast before starting to plan my day.First of all, I will visit the cemetery, go to the tennis court after which I will eat out and probably do some shopping then come back home.I showered and put on a pink shirt with blue denim skirt then a pair of white converse and black sling purse before carrying my duffle bag and going out in my car.I stopped at the nearest flower shop first and bouquet of white lillies before traveling to the cemetery which was an hour's trip.As I walked through the entrance of the cemetery, the scent of tall green grass and blooming flowers filled the air
Third person POVKimberly walked out of her room tying her hair up with a ribbon.She was dressed in a simple flow dressed topped with a jeans jacket with a brown purse slung across her shoulder that matched her brown sandals."Kim, where are you going at this time of night?" Emilia who was watching TV asked as she picked up her phone and checked the time. "It's 7:30pm. Last I checked work closed way before.""Shut up," Kimberly hissed before walking over to the fridge. She opened it took out a bottle of water. She gulped down some before turning to Emilia who was looking at her with mischief."Don't tell me you are going on a date?""And so what if I am?""So it's true then? Must be a good guy if you suddenly stopped being a nerd.""Whatever. Just don't forget to clean up," Kimberly said as she to the door and opened it. "And don't forget to turn off the TV before falling asleep like last time.""Yeah yeah. Enjoy your date," Emilia turned her attention back to the TV as Kimberly went