Chapter 9: Her Voice
1150 Words
“How’s the bidding for Sech’s International?” Tanya asked Russell as the man gave her a visit, one day. It was not yet the day for them to have their monthly meeting but the man suddenly called and asked for an audience.
“SD Ventures are still sniffing around us but there’s nothing to worry about, Miss Tanya.” Russell answered rather confidently. Well, that was to be expected.
SD Ventures. It’s an investment company owned by Samantha. And yes, they are TG Capital’s sole rival company. That explains why Samantha called her an enemy way back. She was referring about her being an enemy with each other’s company. A business enemy.
But Tanya actually knew Russell’s intentions for this visit. And it’s not about Sech’s International or any other company related stuff. This is all about Riley. Rosette must have told him about the girl even though they usually bicker.
“I see. I expect no less from you as always. But enough with that façade Russ. You’re visiting me not as the CEO of TG Capital, right?” Tanya sighed. Russell is after all, not just a CEO and a subordinate, but also a friend.
Russell’s reserved posture changed. He crossed his arms and looked at Tanya. “You took in a kid without checking the background? What are you thinking? I heard the kid was beaten up so bad. Something must be up with her. You have quite a number of enemies Tanya, what if they are using that kid to get you? Why are you being so restless and decides things rashly?”
There. Tanya was finally able to hear those suppressed scolding from a friend.
“I know. I know.” Tanya shrugged and picked up her teacup. She wanted to appear cool about it but Russell just eyed her intently. She’s got no choice but to put her tea down. How can she possibly take a sip with those hawk eyes?
“All right. My mistake, okay? But Monty and Morty are already investigating it. You don’t need to worry. I’m handling the situation properly.” Tanya reasoned out.
“Yeah?” Russell asked.
“Yes. You know me.” Tanya confidently answered.
“Right. And I also knew that it was Gilbert’s orders, not yours.” Russell said that while sipping tea. But it was Tanya who got choked up.
I’m busted!
Tanya leaned in defeat. “Fine. I’m sorry, okay? I was just so worried with the kid. I can’t just possibly send her away to the Social Workers. What if those people who hurt her will come back and take her away? My conscience will haunt me if that happens.”
Russell sighed with her answer. “Those Social Workers know what they are doing Tanya. If they deemed that those people are not to be trusted with, I’m pretty sure they won’t send the kid to them. Besides, that institution is following a due process. Everything will be recorded and legal.”
Tanya looked away. Russell’s definitely has a point. And she hates it. She knew that she decided purely by emotion. As always.
“But since Monty and Morty is into it now. I’ll support you this time. I don’t know why but you seemed to be attached to this kid.” Russell continued.
Tanya immediately looked at him after hearing those. She really thought that the man will force her to surrender Riley to the Social Workers, but he isn’t?
“Really?” She excitedly asked.
Russell nodded. “But please. When the twins finished their investigation, send me the details too. I’m worried for you, Tanya.” Russell’s eyes were gentle.
Tanya smiled. Her friend is really worried for her. It might no longer be a foreign emotion that is given to her after being sent in this parallel world, but it still touches her heart. These are the emotions that only Samantha and Mr. Tan were giving her, before. But now, a few more people are giving it freely to her. She’s just simply being happy.
“I know. And thank you for that. Russ.” She sincerely thanked.
It’s already been a week since Riley lived together with Tanya. The girl is now showing signs of recovery. Aside from gesture responses, the kid is also now initiating an interaction with the men of the house. She now smiles to Gilbert and even giving him high fives. Tanya was so happy seeing these improvements.
“Riley! Can you give me a hand with cleaning the pool?” Sapphire came inside the laundry area where Riley was, along with Ruby. The girl looked at Ruby to ask permission. Ruby nodded at her so she stood and came with Sapphire.
They started cleaning each side, each with skimmers on their hand to pick up fallen leaves. They were almost done when Sapphire suddenly slipped and got thrown on the pool. Riley was surprised and wanted to jump in but she cannot swim.
She wanted to run and bring people out, but her legs are not moving. She’s too shocked.
Her eyes are shifting between the drowning Sapphire and the insides of the mansion. She has no choice. Sapphire will surely drown.She was already crying. And as she prayed along with her will to save Sapphire. Her voice finally came out.
“Help! Sister Sapphire is drowning! Please help! Sister Ruby! Sister Opal! Sir Gilbert! Please!!”
Hearing someone calling his name, Gilbert was the first to come and saw what happened. He was surprised to hear Riley’s voice but he has no time to be amazed. He quickly jumped on the pool and saved Sapphire.
Everyone is already present when Gilbert brought Sapphire on the poolside. Luckily, the woman was still conscious and is not in danger. Tanya immediately ordered Pearl to get towel for the two.
Sapphire was the one who almost got drowned but everyone’s eyes were thrown at Riley. The poor girl was crying yet they can clearly hear her voice.
“I’m sorry. I’m sorry I can’t swim.” She repeatedly said.
Sapphire crawled towards Riley and hugged her. “It’s okay, Riley. You still saved me. You see? Thank you. Thank you for shouting for help.” Sapphire said and that made Riley weep even more.
Riley then looked up to Tanya. “T-thank you, Sister Tanya.”
Without realizing it. Everyone seeing this miracle happening to Riley, were crying in silent.
- Writer
