“I would rather break up.” His question and my quick reply lived rent free in my head for the rest of the day. His cold looks never slipped throughout the day. Paxton got harsher by the minute, barking orders and ignoring every person around him. Nico had to ask if I hit a sore spot. I am pretty sure I did not. Something about his mom made him that way.  “Will you sulk all day?” I said, giving his desk a gentle knock. “Mr Paxton, can I have your undivided attention?” His unfocused gaze finally met mine. His eyes darkened as he clenched his fists.  “Why are you looking at me like that? Do you want to get rid of your mom and me? I have an idea that would solve this.”  “Talk.” “I will be your girlfriend. Just one more time until tomorrow morning. Your mom seems to be the type that n

The air had an undertone of unease even after the presentation by Theresa ended.  “This is not enough reason for me to invest in the production of breakfast food packs,” Paxton said, with a disappointed sigh.  Liar. That presentation was impressive and thorough, I thought to myself. I would have done a similar presentation only with more flair.  “I will give you one last chance to impress me. Same time, next week Tuesday,” he continued. But why, I wondered, was Paxton dragging this out? If you can impress me, then and only then will I invest in your business. Have a good day.” The chair dragged across the floor as he got to his feet. “Are you coming?” Paxton asked me, whispering, “Or you want to stay?” “I am leaving,” I said, with a desperate look at the door.  

The printer gave a small hum before it died. Copy after copy of the original paper slid out. I set them together and stapled before setting aside.  “How many more are left?” I turned to my left where Nico stood, sipping from a cup of smoothie.  “I just need to make four copies of these two.” I raised the papers in question and set one of it on the machine.  “Okay.” As the printer made four copies of the paper placed, I thought of the dinner at the Paxton's the other night. “Nico?” “Yes?” He went through the photocopies I had printed over the past minutes.  “I know Paxton has had a lot of flings but was he ever serious about a woman?” I asked, peeling my eyes on the printer. I could not dare to look at Nico. I wonder what his expression looked like.

Great, I thought to myself as I stepped into my home with my things. I lost two jobs in just a month. What am I going to do now?  Dropping my car keys on the center table with the boxes, I made for the fridge and poured myself a glass of water. Entering my room, I pulled off my top and turned to the mirror to get a good look at my stomach. The bandage held on firm around my waist. “I should change it before the day ends,” I said aloud. Dragging my feet, I climbed back into bed and shook the crackers pack on the bedside table. As expected, it was empty. Pouting, I flung it across the room. Should I order some Chinese food? One look at account balance told me yes and no. I really need to put a stop to my shopping spree. What is more important is my next search for a paying job. I am sure I could find a job that involved me staying at home all day. 

“What do you mean my father?” “You said you wanted to ask that one question.” “Hardin,” I held his arm and asked, “What did he do?” “He harmed my Dad and threatened to kill him if I did not send you away.” I massaged my temple unable to process this new information clearly. “For how long? He is not the type of person to do this sort of thing suddenly.” “Five,” he said, his voice barely above a whisper. “Why didn't you tell me?!” “I thought I could ward him off and his attacks on the company. Remember that time the crab shipping was delayed and the rice farm infestation?” “It was him?” “I thought I could fight for us. I did not know he would go for my Dad. Your father sent a picture of my dad bleeding and his right broken. Scared, I just followed with whatever your father wanted. My Dad walks with a cane now.” “I am so sorry.” “I wish I had told you sooner.” “Does your dad know my father did this?” He shook his head, “He thinks it was a robbery.” “I swear to God, I will k