Shattered Illusion

Chapter Three

“There is no one definition of reality because each reality is perceived through personal filters of imagination.” – Amit Ray.

Alex did know that there was a fine line and a similarity between imagination and reality, but he was in disbelief that the seeds of inspiration planted in one’s imagination could blossom into the tangible fruits of reality.

He had formed a perfect picture of an older version of the little girl if she was still alive and there was little to no difference between what he had imagined and the beautiful creature sitting carefully right in front of him. For a couple of minutes, he wondered if it was pure coincidence or the universe bringing her his way. He could be wrong as well.

“You are hired,” Alex spoke immediately, and he could see the shock captured in all of their faces, including hers. She stood up, quite surprised, as it just did not make any sense. He had not even seen any of her details or anything that could verify how efficient or qualified she was.

The interview had barely even started, and she had been hired. How was that even possible?

“The interview has not been held yet. We have barely checked anything.” One of the interviewers informed him. He had no idea why he had hired her on the spot even when he knew nothing about her, but revoking his command would make him look like a fool right in front of everyone. Keeping his gaze away from her was quite difficult, but he knew he had to otherwise it would give a different meaning.

He picked up her documents and skimmed through it, nodding his head. Thankfully, she met all the requirements they needed for the position she was vying for.

“Olivia Jackson?” He questioned, searching through the documents and not sparing her a glance, much to the amazement of everyone who was there.

“Yes, sir. Olivia Jackson.” She responded. Her palms had already become sweaty and a new wave of tension traveled through her body. All that was happening at that moment seemed to be surreal. I just did not feel like it was happening.

“There were recommendations... there were recommendations in your regard. A good friend of mine recommended you.” He spoke immediately and with a smile on his face, he turned to look at them all. Although they had contrary opinions, they were quiet.

He had the final say after all.

“Congratulations...” He extended his hands to her and trembling, she took his hands. “You are hired. You will be briefed on anything and everything you need to know.” He informed her and with this, stepped out of the room, into his office.

He lowered himself to the chair and exhaled. Faking a smile and not having to pretend to not be surprised in front of her was a Herculean task, but he was glad he could overcome it.

Quickly, he took out his phone and dialed Ben’s number. His hands were trembling, and he hoped he had simply not made a mistake. He hired her simply because he believed she was the lady in question. He had a lot of plans mapped out for her.

On the fourth ring, Ben picked up with enthusiasm laced in his voice as though he was expecting the call.

“Hey, friend!” Ben answered over the phone, his voice bubbling with excitement. “To what do I owe this surprising call?”

“Quick question... would you mind letting me know the name of the deceased client of yours we discussed a couple of days ago?” He probed. There was a deafening silence between them for a couple of seconds.

It was, however, broken by a chuckle from Ben.

“What business of yours is that, anyway?”

Alex did try to think of a suitable response to the question. He definitely could not tell him he had met someone he presumed to be her. She had barely resumed, and it would not be so nice to put her in a tight spot or make her uncomfortable.

“Are you there?” Ben questioned, drawing Alex out of his reverie.

“Of course...” Alex chuckled. “I had to attend to something quite important. Giving me this information would not make you be at a loss, would it? By the way, I could have any information you might need.” He responded.

“Tell me....” Ben chirped in rather quickly. “Do you have any valid information that could be of help? Have you found her?”

This time, he was as serious as he could. He had to keep all jokes aside.

“Come on...” Alex chuckled. “Relax some nerves, man. It is nothing serious. I would, however, need this information as there is a very good friend of mine who claims to be able to help you find her if he has all the necessary details.”

“Oh.....” Ben simply responded, and his voice trailed off. He was quiet for a couple of seconds. “I need a minute to check.”

Alex’s heart raced. It had to be her. If she was, then that was it. His gold mine.

“Ronald......” he spoke and halted. With each second that passed by, the uneasiness in Alex’s heart increased. He had no idea why he was so tense about it, but he sure did know there was more to it. “Ronald Jackson.....” He responded.

Alex leaned backward and exhaled the breath he was unconsciously holding in. He hadn’t believed it.

“And her name is Olivia Jackson.” Ben dropped the bombshell. Alex’s tongue seemed to cleft to the upper part of his mouth as he simply stared into space.

“Did you grab that?” He questioned, following Alex’s silence.

“Yes... yes, I did.” He responded almost immediately. “Thank you... I will... I have. I will let you know and give you a response as soon as possible.” He responded, quite disoriented.

His lips curved into a smile as he sat up. The news had a difficult time sinking into his brain. Things were however about to take a new turn, and he had to strategize.