Loving My Boss

A glimpse of Elena’s world

ELENA

"I got the job!" I squealed, bursting through the door. I couldn't wait to share the news with Gilbert, my elder brother.

"Which job?" he asked, his voice laced with skepticism.

"Come on, bro! I told you I was applying for the personal assistant role to the CEO of Royal Groups," I replied excitedly.

"And you got it?" Gilbert's tone remained subdued.

"Yes! And the pay is amazing. It'll help with Dad's treatment and your business," I added, hoping to lift his spirits.

"You don't need to do that. I'm already looking for a job," Gilbert insisted.

"I know, but I want to help. You and Dad need financial support, even if you don't admit it. This job is a great opportunity," I pressed on.

"Tell me, what's good about a 24-year-old working as a PA to one of the busiest CEOs in the country?" Gilbert asked, his concern palpable.

I faltered, unsure how to respond.

"El, this job isn't suitable for you. Your boss will be globe-trotting, and you'll be expected to follow. I don't think that's safe. Dad wouldn't like this," Gilbert argued.

"I understand your fears, but you and Dad raised me to be strong and independent. Trust me, I can handle this," I reassured him.

"Working for Mrs. Katherine was different. You just had to keep her happy, book shows and fashion appointments. This is a whole different ball game, baby girl," Gilbert cautioned.

"Booking fashion appointments isn't easy! And I'm capable of handling this. Trust me," I insisted.

"Fine, but we'll discuss this further at Christmas. Okay?" Gilbert relented.

"Okay, big bro. Love you."

"Love you too. Stay safe." He hung up

Gilbert protectiveness stemmed from our past but got worse after mum left and I fell into depression unable to speak for seven months, Gilbert and dad were frantic , they didn’t understand what was happening to me, shuttling me between several therapists . I was so devastated. It was my 14th birthday and she had promised me a cake, I knew she and daddy were having issues because of the doctor who lived in our neighborhood but I was too young to understand what exactly was going on, I walked into her room that morning excitedly to ask her for my cake and was surprised to find her room empty , thinking she was in the kitchen already baking the cake , I ran downstairs to meet an empty kitchen , called out her name but there was no response. I ran back to her room then I noticed her belongings were gone . I can’t forget the hollow feeling I felt , the shivers that went through my body ,sitting on her bed , I found a letter saying she had left , she has left dad , left Gilbert and left me , left us to be with that doctor saying she was no longer happy with us and needed to be happy so she left . I screamed and fainted. By the time I woke up, I lost my voice, I couldn’t speak for months, scaring everyone. I didn’t know how to undo it , I didn’t want to undo it. I just couldn’t get over the fact that my mom left us deliberately. It took Gilbert accident , falling from a tree to miraculously break my silence , my family were thankful for that miracle. Ever since my family has been highly protective of me .

I microwaved my pizza from yesterday, said a little prayer thankful for my new job and hoping I don’t flop it

BERNARD

It was 8:27 pm, and I wasn't surprised Carlos was late for dinner – again. His punctuality was as elusive as ever. I'd already instructed my maid to set the table, deciding to eat with or without him.

Just then the door swung open ,

"Hey bro! Missed me ?” Carlos announced , his cheerfulness unwavering , how is he always cheerful, always happy and never one to give into anger?

"You’re late as usual “ I snapped

"Always a grump” he teased, chuckling

"Stop calling me that “ I warned

"Stop acting like one “ he retorted laughing

Carlos headed straight to the dining table, his eyes scanning the spread. "Ma Grace outdid herself tonight. I'm starving!"

I slapped his hand as he reached for the chicken. "Wash your hands first."

"Yeah , Mr cleanliness “ he muttered and heading to the sink

I sat down serving myself a portion of chicken rice , Carlos joined me, savoring the flavors

"this tastes amazing“

His appreciation was genuine, a trait I admired but didn't share. In my book, a job well done was compensation enough. I pay you very well so you can do your job , my money is enough compensation and appreciation

"Any ideas on how to get Mr Ryan partner with us on the new hotel? “ I asked

"Honestly, I've tried scheduling a meeting, but he's always busy," Carlos replied.

"We need him. His influence and wealth would take us to the next level," I said, with frustration creeping in.

"Can we send him an expensive gift, like fine wine?" Carlos suggested.

"Already tried. Futile," I answered, exhaling deeply.

"Harsh. Not even a thank-you note?" Carlos asked, raising an eyebrow.

"Nothing," I replied, with frustration mounting.

"Let's eat and figure it out later," I suggested, shifting the conversation to lighter topics.

We chatted and laughed until late into the night.