Once everyone was assembled downstairs, I addressed them with a smile. I believe in treating all employees equally, and it was evident from their reactions that they appreciated my approach. Many expressed relief and happiness that I, not my grandfather, was now the CEO. During my grandfather Williams’s time, they felt stifled by his strict rules and insistence on always having things his way. I was probably the only one brave enough to stand up to him.
After my talk, I announced bonuses for everyone, which brought even more smiles. Many shared plans to visit their states and spend Christmas and New Year with their families, grateful for the opportunity.
When I left the company, the company driver offered to take me to my next destination. “It’s okay, I can handle it,” I said, smiling, as he opened the driver’s side door for me.
I got into my car and started driving. While navigating the traffic, I called my mo. I chatted happily with my twins.
“Mom, I left my favorite sports car and my jacket at the mansion, too. Please bring them for me, Mommy,” Grayson requested.
“My doll too, Mommy! Nanny forgot to pack it,” Gabriella added. I couldn’t help but laugh at my children. Even though they were upset with their dad, they cherished the gifts I claimed were from Arlo, even if they were old.
After talking to them for a few minutes, I ended the call and decided to head to the mansion. I figured out the rest of the staff had likely gone home for the holidays or were still in the city.
While driving, I noticed a car trailing me in my rearview mirror. I tried to get a good look but couldn’t see the driver’s face as they maintained a bit of distance. I sped up to lose them and kept checking my mirror. Even after several turns, the car stayed on my tail. However, when I took a sharp turn, the car disappeared from view.
When I arrived at the mansion, I honked the horn, and the gateman opened for me. I drove in quickly, parking the car inside the compound.
I greeted him politely before heading straight to my room upstairs. Abel followed me, asking if I needed anything. I explained that I just wanted to gather the items my twins had left behind.
“I’ll take care of it, daughter,” Abel offered.
“Thank you, sir,” I replied.
I walked to the window of my room and opened it. My eyes widened in shock as I spotted the same car that had been following me earlier parked just outside the mansion’s gate. Quickly, I grabbed the small telescope from my drawer and focused on the car. My heart pounded as I tried to identify the driver. If it was someone I didn’t recognize, I was prepared to call the police and report the suspicious activity.
“Arlo,” I whispered his name again, my voice barely audible.
What is he doing here? Why did he follow me? My hand instinctively went to my chest as my heart pounded fiercely. Could it be that his memories are starting to return? Shaking my head, I dismissed the thought.
I peered through the telescope again, studying his face closely. His eyes were serious, and his expression looked as though he was deep in thought.
“Ah, shït!” I cursed under my breath when a sudden knock startled me, nearly causing me to drop the telescope.
“Come in, Abel,” I said, quickly placing the telescope aside.
“Will you be sleeping here tonight, daughter? I can prepare your favorite dish for dinner,” Abel offered kindly. A glance at my watch revealed it was already 6 p.m.
For a moment, I couldn’t respond. The thought of leaving the mansion tonight, especially with Arlo still parked outside, felt impossible. I needed time to figure out why he was here and what he might want.
“Yes, Abel, I’ll have dinner here tonight,” I replied, trying to sound calm.
Abel left the room with a smile, and I turned my attention back to the window. Arlo’s car was still there. Through the telescope, I watched as he lowered the window of his car, his eyes scanning the mansion’s upper floors. His movements were deliberate as he reached into his pocket and pulled out his phone. He looked at the screen but didn’t answer the call.
What is he waiting for? Is he hoping to see me? Or is there another reason for his presence here?
My mind raced with possibilities as I watched him closely, torn between staying hidden and going out to confront him.
