There's One Thing I Like About Him

Chapter Seven

Trisha

I jolted out of bed when I realized I was late for work. I winced as a sharp headache reminded me of how late I’d fallen asleep the night before. I quickly took a shower and got dressed, not even having time to choose what to wear. I hurriedly did my makeup, trying to look somewhat presentable and not like a zombie heading into the office. Today, they’re introducing the acting CEO of A-Tech, Mr. Cliff Heathcliff Campbell, who happens to be Ethan’s best friend.

I rushed down the stairs, my mother calling after me to have breakfast, but I ignored her and focused on putting on my shoes. I couldn’t afford to be late to the emergency meeting. Today, they were also set to announce whether I’d be promoted to Senior Project Manager, a position I’ve been dreaming of for a long time. It’s bittersweet to think about—Ethan is fighting for his life in the hospital, but we have to keep working and moving forward.

“Are you okay, Trish?” Alexa asked when we arrived at work. I nodded as we walked towards the elevator that would take us to the conference room.

As we exited, we ran into Isabelle. I wasn’t sure why she was here, but she was dressed in a stunning outfit that highlighted her flawless appearance. She noticed me staring, so I quickly looked away.

Alexa leaned in and whispered, “What’s the witch doing here?”

I tapped her shoulder, worried that Ma’am Isabelle might hear and that Alexa could lose her job.

We finally reached the conference room, and Alexa and I were surprised by how many people were inside. Even the company’s shareholders were present. The Alvarez family had decided to temporarily hand over the company to Ethan’s best friend, as he was their only child. His parents had other businesses to manage and couldn’t handle the tech company as well. The two men had been friends for a long time, and Ethan’s parents trusted that Cliff would manage the company well during their son’s absence.

I’ve heard rumors that Mr. Cliff is strict and arrogant, so I’m nervous about whether we’ll get along. All the projects I’ll be working on need his approval. Anxiety gnawed at my stomach. I wasn’t trying to be judgmental, but that’s what everyone was saying, especially the employees who had worked with him before. He had left for the UK to finish his master’s degree, but when he heard what happened to Ethan, he immediately booked a flight back to the Philippines. And now he’s here, about to be introduced as the acting CEO.

Ethan’s parents arrived, and everyone stood up. His secretary took her place at the front of the room, while his parents sat down, their faces etched with sorrow. The secretary began to speak.

“Ladies and Gentlemen,

Good Morning.

Today, we gather under challenging and unexpected circumstances. As many of you are aware, our esteemed CEO, Mr. Ethan Clyde Alvarez was recently involved in a serious accident and is currently in a coma. Our hearts are deeply affected by this news, and our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family during this difficult time.”

The depth of grief and sorrow was evident on the faces of Ethan’s parents. Their expressions spoke volumes of the emotional burden they were carrying. The secretary continued her speech.

“In light of this situation, and with the need to ensure that our company continues to move forward effectively, we have made the decision to appoint a new Acting Chief Executive Officer. It is with both a sense of respect and recognition of the deep personal connection involved that I announce Mr. Percy Heathcliff Campbell as our Acting CEO.”

Applause filled the room as everyone turned towards the entrance of the conference room. I couldn’t see his face clearly because some people were standing in front of me, but as he approached, I caught a familiar scent—though I couldn’t quite place it. It felt as if time slowed down, the surroundings becoming a blur as he walked closer. Our eyes met. He was strikingly handsome, with a magnetic presence that felt oddly familiar. I couldn’t shake the feeling that I’d seen him before, but I couldn’t pinpoint where. I shook my head and closed my eyes for a few seconds, trying to snap myself back to reality. What’s wrong with me? I sighed deeply.

The secretary continued her speech as Mr. Cliff reached the front of the room. I watched as he shook hands with Ethan’s parents.

“Mr. Campbell is not only a highly respected leader within our organization, but also a close and trusted friend of Mr. Ethan Clyde Alvarez. He has been a vital part and partner of our company for ten years, demonstrating exceptional leadership, unwavering dedication, and a profound understanding of our values and mission.

Their friendship goes back many years, and Mr. Cliff has been an integral part of Mr. Ethan’s journey. This deep personal connection brings a unique sense of continuity and understanding to his new role. He is not only familiar with the vision and strategy that Mr. Ethan has worked so hard to build but also brings his own fresh perspective and expertise.

In these trying times, Mr. Cliff’s appointment ensures that we have a leader who not only respects and values the legacy of our previous CEO but is also committed to steering our company with the same passion and integrity. He will be dedicated to maintaining the course while adapting to the challenges we face.

Please join me in extending your full support to Mr. Percy Heathcliff Campbell as he steps into this important role. Let’s come together as a team, with a shared sense of purpose and unity, as we navigate through this period of transition.

Our thoughts remain with Mr. Ethan Clyde Alvarez, and we will keep everyone updated on his condition as we receive more information. In the meantime, let us honor his legacy by continuing to work with the same commitment and excellence that have always been our hallmarks.

Thank you for your understanding and support.”