Chapter 15
442 Words
Charlie said to me, "I'm sorry, Leila. If you lack money, I can lend you."
I scoffed at this. Is this Charlie's guilt for being late?
I mustered the last bit of my acting, eyes brimming with tears, and shook my head. "Charlie, I hate you. I never want to see you again. "
Shortly after, I informed Orlin about my pregnancy.
He was excited but anxious.
His reaction met my expectations.
I told him, "Orlin, I plan to have this child."
He didn't respond.
I added, "Don't worry, I can support the child alone, regardless of our future. I still wish to be the child's mother."
He remained silent and walked into the room.
Feeling uneasy, I waited.
Orlin returned, knelt on one knee, and presented a sapphire ring: "Miss Leila, will you marry me?"
I was genuinely surprised.
I asked, "But will your father approve?"
He replied, "My father will be happy. He always wanted me to find someone I love."
The sapphire was beautiful.
Orlin smiled and asked, "Isn't it beautiful? My grandmother gave it to me and said I should give it to the one I love."
I said, "Of course I will, but..."
Orlin interrupted with a kiss, "I only heard you say you will."
Orlin took me to meet his father, Brandon, the CEO of Hill Group.
He seemed approachable, spoke kindly, but his eyes remained sharp and perceptive.
When he saw the ring on my finger, he was overjoyed and gave me a very special gift.
Feeling somewhat at a loss, Orlin helped me out.
"Dad, you startled Leila," he said.
Brandon laughed, "This is a gift for Leila; please don't interfere."
We had lunch together.
After the meal, Brandon proposed a private conversation.
I nodded in agreement.
To be honest, I felt very uneasy in front of Brandon.
I knew he would see through my intentions.
However, I didn't expect him to say what he did.
Brandon said, "Leila, I have heard about your studio. It has an excellent reputation."
I didn't know how to respond.
He smiled, "I'm a competitive person, but unfortunately, my children are not like me. I understand; they have their own ambitions. Leila, I like your way of doing things. Please tell me, what are your ambitions?"
After serious thought, I answered him.
"I want to be the next Brandon Hill," I said.
He smiled broadly, "The Hill Group currently has an open position for Deputy General Manager. Are you interested?"
I replied, "Absolutely."
He then asked, "What about your studio?"
I responded, "My deputy is very capable; she can take over my duties."
Brandon's smile grew even wider.
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