The Billionaire's Unknown Offspring

Chapter No.7

Olivia Bennet:

I felt a sudden pang of sympathy towards him as he released a deep breath on the phone. The sound radiated weakness that seemed unusual to me. “Olivia, it’s both and neither”, he says "I am aware that I have been a wreck and I have mistreated you. However, it does not alter my need for you on a professional plane. For that reason, your skills and loyalty are highly valued; actually, you excel in everything you do. However, concerning our personal relationship, I cannot argue that I have not felt something towards you; though, I am aware that it may be a bit late in regards to mending what you feel has been damaged because of me.

His voice was calming as I listened keenly weighing different feelings in my mind. There was a part of me that wanted to go back to my beloved work and get rid of the monetary bonds that had been tormenting me for so long. One side continued to feel suspicious with regard to Joel’s actions, as it had been damaged by them. This meant I had to choose what was good for me no matter how sorry he was and how many confessions he made.

“ Joel, I like that you are honest, but this is not that easy,” I said. "You, however, will not determine my decision in full. You have hurt me so much and I’m going to need a long time to build up again the confidence that got broken. In other words, I’d prefer that actions backed up what you say! Only words like apology and salary increase do not seem enough for bringing me in as part of your professional activities if you are seriously interested in getting me back into your life. About the personal side of it, I’ll leave off for the moment until the time that arises because I am not ready for that or don't know if I will ever be since I am not looking for that with you. I just want things to be professional between us because I don't feel that way about you." I lied because I do feel more than that for him.

There followed a moment of silence and then Joel picked up his sentence in an earnest way. "I understand, Olivia. Don’t think that I am asking you, for instance, to rush into this matter. You have plenty of time. It is only wise for me to assure you that by all means, I am prepared to demonstrate that I am very devoted to seeking forgiveness and handling you the right way in terms of professionalism and personal relations."

And I said yes although he couldn’t notice me. "Okay, Joel. But actions speak louder than words, and you’ve got a long way to go. Meanwhile, I might consider going back to work, but there are no guarantees."

Joel agreed that he would respect my decisions or any other terms I put forward when it came to the technical aspects of working together. I sat at the edge of my bed with numerous emotions spinning like a whirlwind after hanging up.

The days became weeks as I kept reflecting on what Joel had offered me. I realized that agreeing with it would help guarantee a more stable financial future for me. However, there was no doubt that my heart was still pained with the pain he had inflicted on me. My instinct was to ask for help from my acquaintances that is friends and family. All of them advised me to exploit the job offer, but they also advised me to tread carefully when it came to personal matters.

Therefore, following a lengthy self-analysis process, I came up with an idea to talk to Joel about possible employment resumption. I suggested that we should meet in a very ordinary place, and for convenience purposes a cafe could be good enough. I can’t deny that I felt mixed emotions of apprehension and excitement as I sat at a corner table sipping my black coffee, waiting for him to appear.

Joel had changed by the time he entered the kitchen-like café. It was no longer the proud and insufferable persona that had become familiar to me. It looked as though he had gone through some changes and seemed calm. He seemed to have taken what I said very seriously.

We greeted each other, and later on we spoke about my coming back as a professional. Joel laid down his intentions about the organization at hand and how significant my role would be while adding on the input I was expected to contribute at that particular time. To this, he was prepared with detailed proposal including significant salary offer along with creation of healthy and positive work environment.

He was genuine in that regard, really trying to bring about a change; you could also tell that a great deal of efforts was being exerted to win back trust. This became evident as it showed I had reason to be hopeful hence serious. Nevertheless, I continued to have doubts concerning the emotional side of our contact.

“Joel,” I said. “Thank you for your words, for the proposal you have given so much of yourselves in”. However, it should not seem too sudden for anyone to establish a personal relationship with me. The past’s damage demands restoration. Will you give me your word that you will respect my personal space?" I asked.

Joel nodded solemnly. "I understand, Olivia. I do not want to rush with this. And yes, I’ll honor your privacy limits when it comes to time. That’s something, just having you back into my professional life again."

The other issues and conditions that I raised were carefully discussed in regard to my return. Having wrapped up the meeting, by then, I sensed a cautious optimism at renewing our collaboration. Joel had displayed an unexpected streak of sincerity and desire for transformation.