VEINS OF SILENCE

VEINS OF SILENCE > Part 3

CEO Arrival – Horizon Tower

Caspian Villanueva had just returned to Horizon Tower from a high-profile meeting downtown. The moment he entered, the usual morning flow shifted. Employees froze mid-task, pretending to type or shuffle papers, but everyone knew — or feared — that the CEO’s presence demanded full attention. Accompanied by his personal assistant and a senior executive, Caspian moved with calm authority, his quiet confidence compelling even the busiest employees to straighten up and lower their voices.

At the same time, Claire from the Crown Clique was running late. In her rush, she barely caught the elevator — only to realize she had timed it perfectly with Caspian and his entourage. Shocked, yet secretly thrilled, she tried to maintain composure, her nerves betraying her excitement. Other employees in the elevator stiffened; everyone knew Caspian disliked outsiders riding with him.

The elevator stopped on the second floor. Claire stepped out gracefully, like a runway model. Employees nearby froze — it was strictly forbidden to approach the CEO so casually. Claire, oblivious to the tension, whispered to her friend, boasting about riding with someone “so handsome and professional.”

As the elevator doors closed, Caspian’s gaze lingered on a familiar figure in the distance — someone whose posture and quiet focus seemed oddly recognizable. He furrowed his brow, trying to place the face among the many employees. By the time he reached his office, the thought lingered — there was an aura about that person he couldn’t forget.

While his PA arranged his belongings, Caspian asked, “Any new employees on the second floor?”

PA: “No, sir. Only interns are new.”

Caspian exhaled, his mind returning to the figure he had glimpsed. The assistant stayed silent, aware that even small comments could provoke the CEO’s temper.

Julian, the COO, approached with a small smile. “I heard a rumor downstairs… did someone ride the elevator with you?”

Caspian raised an eyebrow. “Who was that?”

Julian chuckled. “She’s just an intern. She might know general protocols, but not yours.”

Caspian’s gaze sharpened. “Then make sure she — and all interns — learn my protocols.”

Julian blinked, surprised by Caspian’s calm. The CEO picked up papers on his desk, signaling the conversation was over. Julian nodded and left, while Caspian’s thoughts remained on the familiar girl on the second floor.

---

Arrival of the Chairman – Horizon Tower

The atmosphere shifted as a sleek black car pulled up at the main entrance. Security and staff straightened instinctively as the glass doors opened, revealing a distinguished man in a perfectly tailored suit. With two aides at his side, the Chairman entered, his presence commanding attention.

From the upper floor, interns watched from the railing, eyes drawn to the figure striding across the polished ground floor.

“Who could that be?” whispered one.

“I heard he just got back from an international trip,” another murmured.

“That’s the Chairman,” said another intern finally. “He’s the CEO’s father — head of the board. He’s been steering the company’s biggest decisions for years.”

Employees gave way as he moved toward the private elevators, ascending directly to the 15th floor for a high-stakes board meeting that would determine Horizon’s next major move.

---

Boardroom

The boardroom was unusually tense that morning. Caspian sat at the head of the table, reviewing reports, his expression calm but unreadable. Board members murmured quietly as the Chairman announced an urgent communiqué.

“The Horizon Company has been invited to participate in the Global Innovation Contest,” the Chairman said, voice firm. “The company with the best presentation will receive an international award—and global media attention.”

Caspian’s eyes flicked to his father, irritation crossing his features. “I’m aware, but our departments are already overbooked. Adding this could compromise ongoing projects,” he replied, measured but firm.

The Chairman leaned forward, fingers drumming. “This is an opportunity we cannot ignore. Horizon’s reputation—and future growth—depends on it. I insist all departments prepare presentations. The visibility alone will benefit the company immensely.”

Another board member added, “Even a partial effort from each department will elevate Horizon’s standing.”

Caspian’s jaw tightened. The tension between him and his father simmered, a long-standing clash of authority and vision. “I understand your position,” he said carefully, “but this is a company-wide directive. We can’t throw resources at it without strategy.”

The Chairman’s eyes narrowed. “Strategy, yes — but hesitation will be seen as weakness. I expect Horizon to compete—and to win. You will oversee execution, Caspian. No exceptions.”

Caspian leaned back, considering his plan. “Then each department will coordinate internally. I will personally review submissions to ensure quality. Every employee’s contribution counts, and deadlines must be strictly observed.”

Board members murmured approval. The tension with the Chairman remained, but Caspian had structured a solution: a company-wide effort that balanced participation and quality.

As the meeting adjourned, Caspian’s mind raced — timelines, potential presentations, and the employees he could rely on most. Horizon’s push for international recognition had officially begun.

---

Reception and Lobby Department

After the meeting, executives dispersed, leaving departments to prepare for the Global Innovation Contest. Ms. Teresa Alcaraz, the poised head of the Reception and Lobby Department, gathered her team.

“This is your chance to showcase creativity and critical thinking,” she said. “You have three to five days. Work individually or in teams — your ideas may influence the company’s final submission. Give your best.”

The interns exchanged glances, excitement mingling with pressure. Some whispered eagerly, while others felt the weight of representing Horizon on an international stage.

The following day, Celeste and Ivy partnered for their presentation. Ivy approached with two cups of coffee.

“Want some?” she asked softly, noticing Celeste’s focus on her draft. Her eyes widened. “Wow, Frienie… you’re amazing!”

Celeste smiled faintly, grateful for the support.

Nearby, the Crown Clique cast dark glances. Frustrated and struggling with their own ideas, Vanessa, Bianca, and Claire whispered, envy burning beneath their polished smiles.

By the day before submission, the department buzzed with nervous energy. Drafts were finalized, folders arranged, and work double-checked.

Celeste and Ivy’s presentation was ready. Their polished folder sat proudly on the desk.

“We did it,” Ivy whispered, leaning back.

Celeste nodded, eyes shining. “Yeah… we’re ready.”

As most staff packed up, Vanessa lingered. She checked the room, then slid Celeste and Ivy’s folder into her bag, replacing it with another.

A sly smirk curved her lips as she joined Bianca in the hallway.

“Perfect. Tomorrow, this will be ours,” Bianca said, grinning.

The Day of Submission – Reception and Lobby Department

The next morning, the Reception and Lobby Department gathered earlier than usual. The air buzzed with a mix of nerves and excitement — it was finally the day of submission.

At the front, Ms. Teresa Alcaraz addressed the group with her usual calm authority. “If you’ve finished your presentations, you may submit them now. Make sure everything is turned in before noon,” she instructed.

Eager and proud, Ivy stepped forward and placed their folder on the submission table along with the others. Everything looked perfect — an exact copy of the presentation she and Celeste had carefully prepared. Sighing in relief, she returned to her seat, completely unaware of the betrayal that had already taken place.

Moments later, Celeste hurried in, eyes wide. “Ivy!” she called, slightly out of breath.

Ivy turned with a bright smile. “Good news! I already submitted our folder.”

Celeste blinked, stunned. “You… already submitted it?”

“Yes,” Ivy said, excitement shining in her voice. “We’re officially done. Ready for review.”

Across the room, the Crown Clique exchanged sly glances. Bianca leaned toward Claire, whispering with a smug grin, “They’re so excited… and they have no idea their work is gone.”

Claire stifled a laugh, tone dripping with mockery. “Exactly. By the time they realize, it’ll be too late.”

Vanessa smirked quietly, eyes fixed on Celeste and Ivy, satisfaction curling her lips. The Clique sank back into their chairs, brimming with confidence, certain they had already secured victory — while Celeste and Ivy remained blissfully unaware of the trap that had been set.

CEO’s Office – Horizon Tower

Julian entered Caspian’s office without knocking, his usual calm smile in place. “Are you really sure we’re going to join this innovation contest?”

Caspian sat behind his desk, eyes scanning a stack of reports. “We’ll see. As long as the submissions aren’t trash, we’ll proceed.”

Julian let out a soft chuckle. “You’re too cold about it. Everyone’s already on edge. Even the interns are scrambling like it’s their final exam.”

Caspian finally looked up, gaze steady and unreadable. “That’s how it should be. If they want to prove their worth, they need to work under pressure.”

Julian sighed and sank into the chair across from him. “Still, your father knows how to stir things up. He knows the departments are drowning in deadlines, yet he accepted the invitation anyway. If Horizon loses, the blame won’t fall on him—it’ll fall on you.”

Caspian’s jaw tightened, voice calm. “What else is new?”

Julian smirked. “True. It’s always been that way with you and the Chairman.”

Silence settled between them for a moment, heavy with unspoken tension. Then Julian leaned forward, tone curious but light. “By the way… have you noticed anything unusual around the company lately?”

Caspian frowned. “What kind of question is that?”

Julian shrugged casually, a glint in his eyes. “Nothing. Just thought maybe you haven’t realized it yet.”

Caspian’s gaze sharpened. “Realized what, exactly?”

Julian stood, straightening his jacket with a sly smile. “Forget it. I’ve got other things to do.” He gave Caspian a final knowing look before leaving, leaving the CEO with a crease of irritation on his brow—and a curiosity he couldn’t shake.

---

The Following Day – Main Lobby

The next morning, Ms. Teresa Alcaraz sat at her polished desk, reviewing all the presentation folders submitted by employees and interns. Most were decent, but one made her pause. Her brows lifted, and a smile spread across her face. Creative, polished, and clearly well-prepared—this one deserved attention. She set it aside confidently, knowing it would catch the eyes of the higher-ups.

Later that day, the department gathered in the spacious lobby. Ms. Alcaraz’s presence commanded immediate attention.

“I’ve gone through all your submissions,” she announced, voice calm yet authoritative. “I’m very pleased with your efforts. But among all of them, one truly stood out. It wasn’t rushed or careless—it showed thought, creativity, and preparation. I’ll be recommending this presentation to the executives for the Global Innovation Contest.”

The employees exchanged eager glances, anticipation buzzing through the room. Ms. Alcaraz opened the winning folder and read the names aloud:

“Congratulations to… Miss Cruz, Miss Lim, and Miss Morales.”

Gasps echoed. Ivy’s eyes widened as she turned to Celeste.

“How could that happen? I was so sure our presentation would be picked! Celeste, it was incredible. Maybe she overlooked it—I’ll ask her later.”

Celeste shook her head, smiling gently. “No, Ivy. I’m sure she reviewed everything carefully. Maybe ours just wasn’t chosen this time. It’s okay—we’ll do better next round.”

Across the room, the Crown Clique stood tall, practically glowing with pride. Their smug expressions said it all. Bianca stepped forward, mocking laughter cutting through the buzz.

To be continued...