Dangerous Woman

ELOISE'S POV

My name is Eloise Clemonte and I am 27 years old. I have no idea who gave birth to me since I was raised in an orphanage. I don't know if my parents were dead or alive and I have no intention of looking up for them. Why should I even care for someone who abandoned me when I was a child? Knowing that I have nobody I can depend on, I was determined to do something about my life and study hard for my own future. I never knew the beauty of being a child nor being a teenager since I'm constantly busy preparing my future life in advance. Now, as an adult, I managed to establish a world scale corporation with over 100 branch offices throughout the world. With all the money and power I've obtained, I still feel like my life lack of something important. Those feelings will only fade once I indulge myself in a never-ending pile of work or when I get too drunk to even function. Sometimes I do have fun with the people I find soothing to be with. Growing up without any interaction with the opposite sex, my feelings were trained to love women rather than men. Of course, at first I feel that something was wrong with me since I was raised in an orphanage owned by the church, but, now that I am an adult, I don't see any mistake or wrongdoing in my choices anymore. Love is love after all. I heard a knock on my door before my personal assistant turned the knob and enter. "Are you going home or should I ask someone to prepare your bed upstairs?" Luna, my assistant asked. I just came back from Germany for one of my usual conferences but, because of the piles of work that building up from my week-long travel, I have to finish everything by tonight. Looking at the reports I need to finish on my desk, I sigh.

"I'm going to put an all-nighter tonight." Luna seems worried all of the sudden. "You need some time to sleep as well, you're not a robot El." Luna always called me by my nickname whenever we're alone. We actually went to the same university and even graduated at the same time. I wouldn't be able to be who I am now without her parents' help, financially speaking though. I don't know why she decided to be my assistant rather than being one of the departments head. "I'm going to be fine. You should go home. I bet that little gremlin of yours has been waiting for her mother to come home since forever." She gave me a sigh. "I'll ask the maids to prepare your dinner. Please, at least eat your dinner." I saluted. She was shaking her head at my response. "Before I forget, tomorrow we have a meeting with all department head. There are issues with the accounting department." Issues? That's odd. "Alright. Good night Luna." She gave me a smile before closing the door. I continued to do my work for a while before a maid walked in with my dinner. I thanked her and enjoyed my dinner while looking at the city lights. To have such view from my office windows, I am truly living the life I always wanted when I was growing up in the orphanage. None of the people who took care of me ever expected that a loner like myself even manage to have such life. "I was right, you're still working." That voice. I turned my rotating chair and face the person walking into my office.

"Wait, I thought you have a conference in New York. What are you doing here?" I asked with my mouth full. "It's not polite to speak with your mouth full, geez." She went to grab a napkin and wipe my mouth. "It ends today. I should be home by tomorrow but I took the liberty to use the company's jet. I hope it's okay." She what? Well, she's the chief executive officer, she can do anything that she wants in the company. But of course, she needs to ask for my permission though since I'm the chairwoman. "Claire, you need to ask for my permission. But, it's fine. I let it slide just for once." She gave me a small smile before she went to sit on the chair in front of my desk. "So, any news? What's going on in New York?" I asked while sipping my coffee. "Looks like some of the head branches want to do something to make you look bad. The head of New York branch will be suggesting some proposal in the upcoming meeting for all branches. It's best to ignore his suggestion because when I take a look at the financial history and their reports, it doesn't match at all. He was mad at us for not sending more financial support to the office!" I raised both eyebrows. "But we did right? Why do they need more? On our end, we sent enough financial support to each branch." Claire shrugged. "Obviously he swindled the money we sent. What should we do? Do you want me to deal with it myself? Or should I let Maya interfere since she's the chief financial officer." Bringing Maya to this matter will only end badly.

"Speaking of Maya, did you received a text from her? She fired one of her accountants for an unknown reason. It's too bad though, he's such a talented worker." I gave her a nervous laughter. If only she knew the reason that Maya fired him was that he cheated with the receptionist in the lobby. I told her many times before that every personal matter should always be deal professionally. But Maya, she just couldn't work with him anymore. "You know something, right?" Claire suddenly stood up and slammed her hand on my desk. "I don't know anything, I swear." Claire can be such a pain in the ass when she's like this. "Aren't you suppose to be home now? I bet your fiancée waiting for you." I tried to change the subject. "He is. But I told him I'll be tomorrow. Besides, I have to pick something up." She replied. "Pick what?" I asked. "Pick this." It happened so fast that didn't even get to do anything about it when her lips on mine. For a brief moment, I don't know if I should kiss her back or just let her do whatever she wants without returning the favor. Maybe ... for a few minutes? Sorry, Thomas, I can't help it .... she used to be my girlfriend. *** "Oh ... I never knew that you both this close before." That voice, it's LUNA! When I open my eyes, I noticed that Claire's putting on her clothes while I, in my birthday suit still. Luna was crossing her hands while tapping on her wristwatch telling me it's almost time. "You have 10 minutes to make yourself look presentable for the meeting. I prepared your suit and even your breakfast is ready on the table. You need to eat them while getting ready." She's such a bossy assistant! "I have to brief you while you in the shower since you clearly overslept." I grab the towel Luna prepared for me and went to the bathroom. "And Claire, Maya was looking for you earlier. She said something about your report while you were in New York." I heard Claire cuss before running towards the door.

"And you, you should know better than to put your hands on someone's fiancé. Have you gone mad? She's engaged to the big macho lawyer! He'll kill you if he ever finds out." Can she just stop lecturing me? "The briefing please." She sighs before briefing me about today's agenda. "You have 5 more minutes. And also, Maya requested to see you this afternoon. She said something about finding a new accountant." I chuckled. "I thought she was thinking it through before firing him on the spot. Now, who's in deep water since she short on accountants from the start." I went out from the showers and blow dry my hair. Luna held my breakfast up for me to eat while getting ready for the meeting. "Well, upon knowing that, I took the liberty of putting on an ad for a new accountant. I hope that's okay." Good thinking. "It's fine. Besides, she needs them pronto right? Your quick thinking might save her from the burden." She turned around when I let my towel down and put on my suit. "I'm done." I was about to walk out from the bathroom when she stopped me. "Honestly, you need someone to take care of your needs, El. I'm married now and a mother, I can't take care of you 24/7 like before." I never realized that I always depended on her before. "I don't think anyone would want a workaholic like me. Besides, I'm always busy with my work, I don't think I can give the person I'm with the attention she needs." She fixed my collar before smiling at me. "I think when you find the right person, she will do whatever it takes to overcome that obstacle." She touched my nose before opening the door for me. "We should go to the meeting room now. I'm sure everyone waiting for us." As chairwoman, I have to present myself at least once a month at the department meeting in HQ. If I'm not psychically present, Claire will take over and I'll be doing it via video call from any parts of the world I'm in that moment. Usually, I just have to listen to every complaint they have for me while Luna taking notes of each complainer. In the end, I'll be reviewing it myself and think of a way to overcome it. I need to make sure there won't be any problem at the very core of my corporation. At the end of the meeting, I waited until I am alone in the room. It's almost lunchtime and I have to meet Maya. I reached for my phone and called for Maya, telling her that I'm in the meeting room. Not long after, she knocks on the door.

"Are you done? Let's go. I'm hungry." Maya gave me small smile. I'm sure she's not smiling on the inside since her boyfriend cheated on her. "Oh come on, don't be sad. There's a lot of fish in the sea, he's not the only one." Maya chuckled. "You know El, that phrase, only my grandmother will use it. But you're right! Why should I mopped around thinking about that bastard?! I should be glad since he showed his true colors before we get married." That's the Maya I know, so positive and strong. "Hold on, you expect me to ride at the back of your bike? El, I'm using a short skirt!" Eh, what's wrong with that? She did it before. "I didn't bring my car today." She sighed before reaching for her car key. "Use mine." She threw her car keys to me and we both went to her car. It amazes how her car never get stolen before. "Where are we going?" She asked when I started to drive. "Remember that restaurant we always go to when we were still a student? I miss their food." After eating German's food for a week, I need to spoil myself a little bit. "Oh! Madame Lupe's Kitchen? Yea, I miss her food as well. It's been what? Several years since we last went to that restaurant?" I was happy that the traffic isn't acting up like always. "I think we both have good luck today. We even manage to find a parking space right in front of the restaurant!" We both laughed. "Don't jinx it though," I said before we both went out of the car and walked towards the restaurant. It's really packed today but like I said before, we are lucky enough to have a free table! "Maybe we should buy lottery next," Maya suggested. "Or to Vegas." A waitress came to our table and told us the specials for today but we both know what we want. This used to be our favorite place to eat while we're still students. "We both want spicy noodle, extra hot with ice lemon tea and your signature dessert, the famous custard pudding." The waitress was clearly astounded by our request. "You must be a regular to know this restaurant's off-menu dishes." We both smiled. "Is Madam Lupe in? We wish to meet her if that's okay." Maya asked the waitress. "I'll get the owner." She's polite. I'll be sure to tip her later. Maya and I were talking about the current situation in the accounting department when we heard the person next to our table suddenly scream in frustration. Not long after we heard a baby crying. The woman next to us apologized to everyone and try to calm her baby. Looking at her table, she's probably looking for a job. With that newspaper on the table, circling down every job description on it, it's hard to miss. I must say, she's quite a stunning woman. That silky black hair really compliments her looks. If only she's not married, I'll be all over her.

"Hey! Are you even listening to me?" Maya gained my attention. "Yes of course." She gave me a skeptical look. "Really? What did I say then?" Damn it! I should just be honest with her. "I'm sorry." She scoffed. *** "Is that you blondie?!" Madam Lupe has always been calling me by that name since she can't pronounce my name correctly. "Aunt Lupe, how have you been? Good?" I asked before hugging her. "I'm great. I thought you both forgot about me since its been ages since you two came to my restaurant. Luna, on the other hand, she always comes here on the weekends with her family." Luna did Huh? "How are you, Maya? My my, you look like a train wreck!" She knows! Even when Maya tried really hard to conceal her despair, Aunt Lupe always manage to see it, she has the eyes of God! Well, that's what we believe it to be. "How did you ... Ugh, I can't even fool you, Aunt Lupe." Aunt Lupe laughed. "You need to be at my age to fool me." The waitress from earlier came with our orders. Aunt Lupe chuckled seeing our food. "Looking back, we would never guess that you both would be the people you are today. Before, Maya has always been the one who keeps on changing her partner while Blondie here, always buried her head in books even though she's having her meal." We both chuckled. She sounds like our guardian just then. She's like a mother I never have and I always came to her for bits of advice when I needed one. She's always so wise and controlled. "UGH!" Again we heard the woman beside our table expressed her feelings. I wonder what's going on. "Oh don't mind her. She's having difficulty in finding a job now. She was fired from the company she was working for since she's graduated. I heard that her neighbors complained about the fighting she's having with her husband since he's the only one who works now." It amazed me how she knows this much. "What kind of men that yelled at his wife for being unemployed? He should be working for his family. Men nowadays! Unbelievable!" Here we go again.

"Maya, don't talk so loud. She might hear you." I warned her. "Well, enjoy your meal. I have to go back to the kitchen now. If you need anything else, do call for the waitresses." Aunt Lupe bid us her goodbyes. Maya and I continued to eat our meal and talked about the interviews she will conducting tomorrow. "What kind of people are you searching for?" I asked. "Someone who can do the work I asked him or her to do. I was wondering if you have some time tomorrow. I need your expert eye in assessing all those candidates tomorrow." Hmmm, that's interesting. "I don't know since Luna's the one who tells me what I do every morning. Maybe you should make an appointment with her. That way she can find any free time for me to be there." Maya gave me her famous 'are you fucking serious' look. "If you don't have the time, I could ask my assistant to take a video of the interview and you can review them yourself." That's actually a good idea. "Alright, we'll do that. I do remember that I have a guest tomorrow coming from Japan. We'll be discussing our new branch office in Japan." Maya suddenly gave me a clap. "Congratulation for that. I never knew that you'll be opening another branch in Asia. No one even believed in your capability when you and Luna started this company while we're at our final semester in university, but now, it only took you two 6 years to built your legacy." Maya raised her glass before I raised mine as well. "Honestly I owe a lot to Luna's parents for believing in our dream. I feel so bad that Luna has to work as my assistant rather than being one of the chiefs." Once again we both turned to the lady next to our table when we heard a baby laughed. It actually sounds cute just then. "By the way, I heard that you and Claire doing something last night. Are you mental to even doing that? You know how jealous Terry can be." Did Luna tell everyone about what happened last night?

"It's just something I do. It's not serious or anything." We were shocked when we heard the sound of someone being slapped. "You should be searching for a job! Not spending more money by coming here!" A man shouted at the woman's face. I feel sorry for her though but, it's their problem. I don't want to interfere. "That bastard!" To my surprise, Maya stood up from her seat and pushed the man away from the table. He fell on the floor with fury. "Are you okay? How's the baby?" The woman was speechless by Maya's action. I noticed the man stood up and was about to hit Maya. I really couldn't let that happen to her though. I sighed before standing up from my own seat and grabbing the man by the wrist. "I wouldn't do that if I were you. Her parents can be super annoying to deal with once they know that you hit their daughter. Not to mention her brothers will beat your ass up." He forcefully took his hand back from my grip. "Sir, you're not supposed to hit a woman. That's illegal. If she decided to take you to court, you'll be in deep trouble. And I don't mind being a witness if that does happen." What the hell am I saying? I don't have time for that! "She's my wife. She's mine and you, just a bystander." He does have such foul mouth on him. "Oh, you have a degree in accounting? Say, how about you try your luck in this interview tomorrow morning. What's your name? I'll make sure to add your name to the list." The poor woman was speechless when Maya asked her all of the sudden. "My name is Claudette Lowe." She said. "Claudette?" She nodded. I noticed the baby she's with.

"You can bring your baby together if you don't have anyone to take care of her. There's a daycare center available. You can ask the people who work there for help. No payment necessary." I added. I just assumed it's her since she's wearing pink clothes. She clearly didn't expect Maya to invited her to an interview tomorrow. But, I did notice a small smile crept on her face that brief moment. She's beautiful when she smiles.

CLAUDETTE'S POV

"You better get that job today. It's hard enough that I am the only working adult in this household." And this was the same person I married 5 years ago. I couldn't believe how fast he changes from the sweet and charming husband to a bossy and demanding man he is today. I lost count of how many times he raised his hands to me now that I am almost 6 months unemployed. To be frank, it's not even my fault I was fired. It was that interns fault! Oh, I wish I could just strangle her that time. "I know. Can you just chill for a second! Why are you so obsessed with me having a job? It's your JOB to provide for us since you're the husband and I am the wife!" I don't know what came over me when I blurted it all out. I was surprised when he didn't respond to me at all. I was almost sure he would hit me or something. "I'm going to let that slide for today. But if you fail to nail this job, you should be ready for what will come to you later tonight." Did he just threatened me?! "Roger, what is wrong with you? I never knew you were this abusive before! What changed you?" I asked as I facing him. "And why do we seem to have trouble with money lately? With your salary, we could afford to live with it alone!" Now I'm sure he will hit me. I was waiting for it but it didn't come at all. "Shut up and get yourself ready. I don't want to be late." Late? But it's only 7 am! My job interview doesn't start until after 9 am.

"I'm going to get Herminia." He said before walking out from our bedroom. It didn't take long for me to get ready and made myself presentable. Honestly? I am curious to how that woman knows that I have a degree in accounting though. I think Miss Maya was her name and she's actually a chief financial officer. For such young woman to have such important job, I don't know what to say! I did look up for their company's history but nothing came up since they only started 6 years ago. At first, I was reluctant but, knowing I have no job now, I can't be picky. Who knows, maybe from this, greater things will happen in my life. Being a mother right after I graduated from college was not in my life agenda but, after having Herminia, I never been happier. At first, I was worried that it might be hard but it's not. I'm so used to it now that everything seems to be easy from here and now. I went to the car and noticed that Roger and our daughter were waiting for me. He seems pissed but when I entered the car, he gave our daughter to me and just drive towards the address I gave him last night. "This is the place?! Are you sure?" I never expected it'll be this extravagant! My image of a start-up company was far from what I'm seeing right now. "Yes, this is the address alright." I got out from the car together with Herminia. "Here." He handed my files and certificate. "Please, get the job." That's his word of encouragement?! What a husband he is. "Alright Herminia, let's do this!" I could just hear Herminia's little voice encouraging me. To my surprise, there's a lot of women coming to work together with their kids here. It's just, where is it actually? Should I just follow the workers who're with their child? Or is there a protocol to follow? "Excuse me, Umm, I'm sorry but where is the daycare center?" I asked the receptionist. "Hello, welcome to Clemonte Corporation. I'm sorry for asking this but, are you a client or someone who work here?" She asked.

"I'm here for an interview. Miss Maya Abbot said I can leave my child in the daycare center." She smiled. "Oh, you're here for the interview? I'm sorry. The daycare center is on the second floor. Once you reach the second floor, go to the counter and tell them that you're here for the interview in Miss Maya's department." I thanked the receptionist and went to the elevator. "The second floor please." The woman standing next to button smiled at me. "First day here?" She asked. "No, I'm here for an interview." "Oh, for the accounting department?" I nodded. She's pretty though. "How old is she?" She asked about Herminia. "She's 8 months old." Seems like she's fond of children. "I have a daughter myself. She's 2 years old. My boss likes to call her little gremlin though since my daughter likes to pour any kind of food on her head." I gasped. "She did that to your boss?! It must be nerve wrecking." She chuckled. "Nah, she's okay with it. My boss is a good person. By the way, my name is Luna." Luna? That's a nice name for such a beautiful woman. "I'm Claudette." She seems surprised for a moment but gave me a smile. The elevator door opens and I thanked her for holding it for me. "Good luck." She said before the door closes. There's a lot of nice people in this company. "Hello." I smiled at the person behind the counter.

"Hello, welcome to the daycare center. May I help you, ma'am?" I explained to her my situation and she gladly took Herminia from my hands. "Miss Maya mentioned your name to us earlier. Good luck with your interview ma'am." I feel bad for not paying her for taking care of Herminia though. I wave at my daughter before going to the elevator again. I waited but then I realized something crucial. Which floor should I go for my interview?! When the elevator door opens, a woman with twins came out and she seems like she's ready to yell at everything. I was scared but I need to know which floor though. Ugh, come on Claudette, you can do this! "Excuse me, ma'am." The woman stopped walking towards the daycare and turned to face me. "Yes?" She actually replied me! "Which floor should I go for my interview with Miss Maya Abbot?" I was scared when she didn't show any facial expression. "I was planning to meet Maya myself. Could you wait for me? I want to send my sons to the daycare first." I nodded. She gave me a small smile. *** Oh my God! Oh my God! Oh my God! I was worried she might be annoyed by me! It didn't take long for her to send her sons. We waited for the elevator and when we entered, she pressed the 10th-floor button. "I'm sure you're ready meeting with Maya correct?" She started a conversation. "Yes, ma'am." "You ever work in such environment before?" I nodded. "I did ma'am. Before I was fired." That piqued her interest. "Oh? From which corporation?" She asked. "Monolith Group, ma'am." She suddenly laughed at my answers. Was it funny? The way I said it?

"Just so you know, Monolith Group is one of our biggest rivals. We hated each other guts. I'm sure Amber would hate it when she knows that one of her ex-worker coming here for an interview." She continued to laugh. Wait, Amber? Did she mean Miss Amber, the current Chief Executive Officer of Monolith Group? "By the way, my name is Rafaela. I'm the Chief Operating Officer here in Clemonte Corporation. I'll be one of your interviewers today." She gave me a smile but it soon turned into something grim when the elevator door opens. "Good luck." She said before leaving me in front of the door. There's a lot of people in the waiting area though. They seem so distinguished! I feel small. "Hi, I'm here for the interview." The woman behind the counter smiled at me. "Hello, ma'am. Welcome to Clemonte Corporation. Your name please?" I told her my name and she asked for my certificates and necessary files to present later on. She asked me to wait in the waiting area until my name is called. Seeing everyone waiting for their turn, it's making me more nervous. Some of them even practicing how to greet the interviewer. "Hi. Nervous? I am. I can't even sleep last night." A woman greeted me. "Yea. I have never been so nervous before. Looking at the other candidates really does make you feel small." She chuckled. "They're actually worried about you since they saw you walking with this company's COO. Mrs. Rafaela Stockholm is quite a famous name in the business world. We all thought that you might be related to her or something." I don't even know her until today. "No. We're not related. We just met at the daycare center on the second floor." I literally heard some of them heave a sigh in relief! "Miss Bianca Willow." The same woman who's behind the counter called the name of the person next to me.

"Good luck." I smiled at her. She gave me a thumbs up and followed the woman from earlier towards a room. One by one of the people waiting in the waiting area were called and some leave with confidence and there's also someone that leave with tears flowing down their cheek. They were that harsh?! Now I want to go home! "Mrs. Claudette Lowe. It's your turn." I heard my name being called. "Don't be nervous. Please follow me." She smiled. I followed her towards a room where she opens the door and let me in. This is a beautiful meeting room though. My eyes landed on two figure. One of them was the woman from earlier and the other ... was the woman who I met at the restaurant yesterday! Let me tell you, she's not the same person she was yesterday! Oh God, she's so serious! What should I do?! "Please have a seat." Mrs. Rafaela offered. "Introduce yourself." Miss Maya's voice almost startled me. "My name is Claudette Lowe. I am 25 years old. I used to go to United University and graduated with honors in accounting and finance. I am married for 5 years and I have a daughter aged 8 months." Miss Maya looked up to me.

"I see. Here stated that you worked for Monolith Group for a year and a half before they fired you. Care to explain why they fired you?" I knew it! Interviewers always asked that kind of question. This is how every single one of them turns me down. "It was my own wrongdoing for trusting an intern to do a very important job. In the end, my superior decided to fire me from my job because they thought I am incompetent in making a simple decision. That intern replaced me apparently." Miss Maya's eyes widen. "So, let me get this straight. They fired you because the intern did something unnecessary and let the intern taking your old position?" I nodded. That basically what happened. They both suddenly laughed at me. "We're sorry. But, it's expected from Amber though. Letting such people work in her company like that! I bet her father really proud of her for doing such thing." Miss Maya said with a laugh. They seem to know the CEO. "Back to business. If you were to be selected among all who came today, what will you able to give back to the company?" Mrs. Maya asked. "I may not have enough experience but I am diligent and a hard worker. I don't mind working an extra hour and I have no problem being yell at for my mistake." No, respond at all. This is bad, really bad. "To be honest, I am impressed with your performance in Monolith Group. This is one of the best I've seen today. Graduated with honors and letter of recommendation from your past lecturers, you must be the best student they have ... "Miss Maya dragged on.

"What do you think Claire?" Mrs. Rafaela suddenly asked someone named Claire. Who's Claire? Suddenly, the television at the wall showed a woman looking straight at me. "She's the best among all who came today. I like her attitude and determination. Let's hire her." Wait, what? They want to hire me?! "Well, Claire just gave us the okay. Oh, meet Miss Claire Arcan, the CEO of Clemonte Corporation." Miss Maya introduced us. "Welcome to Clemonte Corporation, Mrs. Claudette Lowe." The CEO welcomed me. I can't believe this! They actually hired me! "So that makes it 4 new accountants and auditors. I can't believe we manage to find these 4 outstanding people to be part of our team." Miss Maya smiled at me. "Your basic salary will be $6000. If you manage to do wonders, your salary will increase as well. I hope you can start by tomorrow." $6000? That's more than what I get at my old job. "Yes! Thank you so much! I really appreciate it!" I thanked them all. This is great! I finally landed a decent job for once! *** "How was your interview?" The babysitter asked me when I waltz in the daycare center. "I got the job! I never knew it will go this splendidly! The top brass around here really is the best." The babysitter chuckled. "They have their moments. I believe we get to see Herminia again tomorrow?" I nodded. Another babysitter was bringing Herminia when I remembered something crucial. "I need to pay for the daycare service right? Do I need to pay it monthly or yearly?" I asked while taking Herminia from the person who brought her to me. "Oh, don't worry about that. You don't have to pay for anything. The daycare service is free. It's fully funded by the chairwoman herself." For real?

"Most of the employees here are married and with a child. Sometimes it's hard for them to focus on work since they constantly thinking about their kids at home. The chairwoman establishes this center to ease their burden. We even have a team of experienced pediatric doctors and nurses available." She pointed at a room that says 'clinic'. "The chairwoman must've love kids so much to even do this kind of things for her workers huh?" She smiled. "From the stories I heard, she was raised in an orphanage. Another version of the story, she was abandoned somewhere around a church and the nuns found her laying around with nothing but a piece of white cloth. But, whatever the versions are, it's something to look up to when she's this successful in life." The babysitter praising her boss too much. It's almost like she's kissing up to her. "Oh, yea, ma'am, this Centre will open its door at 6 am and will be closed at 10 pm. Tell us in advance if your husband or the other guardians will be picking your daughter up. That way, we will know that your daughter will be pick up by the person you know." I'll make sure to remember that. "Thank you for your time. Well, we have to go now... Umm ... Miss Eliza." She smiled.

"Please, call me Eliza. It's weird to be call miss." We both chuckled. "Well then, just call me Claudette." We both bid our goodbyes before I texted my husband, telling him I got the job. I was waiting for the elevator when Herminia started to make a fuss. I heard a 'ding' from the elevator and entered while apologizing to whoever's inside. Come on Herminia, what's wrong? You were okay back then. Don't tell me you missed your new friends already. "Do you need any help?" A voice startled me. "No, it's fine. I'm guessing she just missed her new friends." When I looked up to the person talking to me, I was surprised. It's the woman from yesterday, the one who stopped Roger from hitting Miss Maya. "I'm sorry for yesterday. My husband was not being himself." She gave me a small smile. "It's fine. I was glad that I manage to stop him from hitting her. If not, he probably in deep trouble since he will be accused of hitting the daughter of a member of the parliament." She chuckled. Say what now? My jaw dropped. Miss Maya is a minister's daughter?! Seems like Herminia think it's funny that I'm making such face. "Don't worry. Everything is fine. By the way, how was your interview?" She asked. "I got the job. I'll be starting tomorrow." When the elevator door open, she pressed a button and let me walked out first. I thanked her for doing so. From just one look, people probably always mistaken her for a man since she dressed like one. But from a closer look, she does have a woman feature. Her voice seems a bit low and it does give people the wrong idea at times. I wonder which department she's working at. I want to ask her a bit more but I don't want to pry and give her the wrong impression about me.

"Whoa!" She suddenly grabbed my shoulder. I have no idea what's going on until I heard somebody apologized to me. "I'm sorry ma'am. I didn't see you there." I waved it off. He apologized again and continued to do his job. "Thank you." I thanked her again. "No problem. Do be careful now. Good day." She patted my shoulder before touching Herminia's cheek. I watched her go until she disappeared as she turned to the corner. Damn it, why do I feel something weird whenever she's near me. I was brought back to reality when my phone started to ring. Eh, Roger? I slide it open and read his text. This is weird, he's outside? But why? Did I ask for a ride just then? It's all so blurry. Like the text read, my husband was waiting for me. When I entered his car, he didn't say anything but drive. "You got the job huh?" He finally asked. "Yes. I start tomorrow." He cleared his throat. "What about Herminia?" He asked. "There's a daycare center." He seems relieved but his face turned grim. "How much will that cost us?" He was worried about that?! "It's free for all employee." He was as shocked as I am. "Are you serious?" I nodded my answers.

"That's good then. I was worried we have to find a nanny or a babysitter for her." I'm beginning to wonder if I marry the same man I knew in high school and in college. When did he become so fixated on how much we spent our money?! I guess it all started right after we know that I'm pregnant I guess. He started to spent a lot of time at work rather than being with his family. Even after Herminia was born, he constantly with his calculator, calculating our daily expenses like a maniac! Sometimes I wonder what does he do with his own salary.

The last time I checked, his salary was too much for us three to even spend on. Even after we deduct from paying the bills and the house, we should have enough. I'm curious about his doing behind my back. But, I don't know why I keep on trusting him. Was it for love? Or, was it for our daughter? Am I that afraid that she might be growing up without a father figure?

ELOISE'S POV

I ignored the fact that my office door was open. But as I try to do so, I could smell a strong rosy scent invading my nostril. "Jesus! Did you pour the whole bottle on your body?" My eyes widen when I looked up from the things I indulge myself into. She looks totally different than the way she came to work to today. "I'm going now since it's already 6 pm. I have a date with my husband." Ah, that's why she smells so .. alluring. "Are you going home or staying at the office again?" Every day she asked the same question. But today my answer will be different. I looked at my desk and gave her a small smile. "I'm going home. But before that, I want to visit the daycare center." Luna returns my smile. "I'll make sure to inform your maids that reside here that you're going home." She excuses herself before closing the door behind her. I decided to clean up my desk and grab my phone and keys. It's been a while since I visit the daycare center. I wonder if there's any new gossip? I walked passed Luna's office and waved at her. She waved back before continuing to clean up her own desk. I went to the elevator and pressed the button. Once the door opened, I smile upon hearing the sound of kids playing around. It's 6:30 pm and their parents still working? Sometimes I feel sorry for them but then again, I'm sure their parents workin for the sake of this company.

"Chairwoman?!" Eliza looks like she seen a ghost. "Eliza? You okay?" I asked. "I'm great but, why are you here? Are we supposed to prepare something for you? I didn't get any notice from Madam Luna." Oh, they were worried about that? Geez! "No. I'm just visiting, that's all." They heave a sigh of relief. I can't believe my presence made them this worried. I chuckled. "THE WITCH!" That nickname, that's probably one of Rafaela's twins. Wait, she's still working? "Hello there Elijah." Before I could do anything, someone already hitting my legs with a toy sword. "Good to see you too Isaiah." I grabbed him by the shirt and smiled at him. "NOOO! The witch caught Isa!" Elijah came running for me and hitting my legs with his little hands. It's comical to see him like this. Remind me of his father, who clearly being controlled by Rafaela. "Eli, run!" I didn't expect Isaiah to bite my hand off. I almost let go of his shirt when the pain struck me. "Little gremlins." Once I put him down on the floor, they both let out their tongue and ran away from me. The daycare workers were stifling their laughter upon seeing my redden hand. "Do you need some ointment for that?" Eliza asked while trying not to laugh. "No thank you." I looked around the daycare center before asking Eliza if they need anything else for the kids. We were just talking when I heard a little baby cry not far from where we are.

"A baby?" Eliza nodded. "Her mother starts today. I believe she's working for Miss Maya." Oh, Claudette, the outstanding accountant that even Claire was praising earlier this morning. It's been years I know that woman and not once I heard she praises someone as high as she praised Claudette. I haven't take a look at her files yet but from what I heard, she's one of a kind. That's why even Rafaela hired her in a heartbeat. I still wonder how did Maya knew she's graduated in accounting and finance major though. "She's been a good girl though. That's the first time I met a baby that doesn't miss her mother that much." She probably let someone taking care of her a lot while she works before. "Whats her name?" I asked when Eliza holding her in her arms. "Herminia. But we all call her Nia." She does resemble her mother so much. "Sorry, I'm late! It's my first day and I have a lot of work thanks to the person before me." I turned around to see Claudette were out of breath. Did she run over here? "Why are you sweating and out of breath? You do know that the daycare close at 10 PM right?" I asked. Her face tells me that she just realized it. "I forgot. How was she? Did she cry a lot? I was so worried." Eliza chuckled. "She's been a good girl all day." Her baby legit looks happy when she sees her mother. "Eliza, is it true that the chairwoman of this corporation is a slave driver?" Say what now? Eliza was surprised by the question when she turned to me. I just smile. "What? Where did you hear that?" She asked. "Miss Maya told me." Maya did Huh? Maybe I should have a chat with that woman later on. "Miss Maya? Why did she say that that chairwoman is a slave driver?" I asked. Claudette shrugged.

"All she told me that she's a witch that likes to make everyone work like a dog for her own gain. Miss Maya also mentioned that she's quite a slut." What the hell?! She's calling me a slut? She's the one who keeps on changing partner every now and then. "But, Miss Maya also told me that the chairwoman has a heart of gold and no one could compare to her kindness. And I was like, if so, why would she say those things earlier." Claudette laughed it off. "Maybe you should stop, Claudette." Eliza was worried I might explode in front of her. "Oh, I'm sorry. I was babbling am I?" I shake my head no. "No, you were not. If you have any more gossip about the chairwoman, please do tell us. I would love to hear it." She shrugged. "That's it. Before we could continue, her assistant called her for a meeting." Claudette seems so innocent. Maya shouldn't be taunting her innocence like that. "Let's go home Herminia, daddy's waiting for us downstairs." She smiled before bidding us goodbye. "Maybe I should visit Maya in her office. I'm sure she still working now that she's not seeing someone." I smiled at Eliza. "Good luck Miss." Eliza and the rest of the daycare workers waved at me.

***

"El? What a surprise to see you here. Anything I can help you with?" Maya asked when she saw me walking in. "Say, we've been friends for years right?" That was the first question that came out from my mouth. "Since junior high. Us, Claire and Luna. We even entered the same university. Why'd you ask? Did you forget?" She looked up to me when I took a seat on the chair in front of her desk. "Oh, nothing. I was just curious since I heard some rumors going on about me." Bingo! She's beginning to feel uneasy about something! "What are you blabbering about?" She forces her laughter. "Well, you know, how I am a slave driver." I was waiting for her to come clean. She finally sighs in defeat. "How did you know that? Don't tell me she went to your office and tell about me." I wonder what did I ever do to her. "No. I went to the daycare center and she asked Eliza about it, in front of me. She's so innocent yes?" Maya apologized. "Whats the need to apologized? I'm a slave driver after all." I mocked. She repeatedly apologized to me but I ignore her. I looked at the time before looking up at her again. "Wanna grab dinner together? Your treat. After all, you did just gossip about your superior." I smirked. "But ... alright fine. What do you have in mind?" She asked while putting her phone in her handbag before grabbing her keys. "Japanese, ramen to be exact." She stood up from her seat.

"Should we ask Claire to join us?" Maya asked when she closes her office door. She's still in the office?! "Sure. Give her a call." Maya reached for her phone and give Claire a call while we entered the elevator. Once we reached the ground floor, she informed me that Claire's on her way home. "For real? Well, having a fiancée does change a person. Oh, could you send me home later?" Maya nodded as we walked towards her car. "So, how was your new worker? Are they doing a good job?" I asked when she started to drive. "I need to train the other three a little bit more but Claudette, she's amazing! She knows what to do and how to handle things. I didn't have to explain a lot of things to her but she gets the job done. She even completed every single work that that bastard left her." I am impressed. It's not every day I heard Maya praising her worker like this. She's a bitch among bitch when it comes to her underlings. "That's good to hear then." I yawned as I said that. "You haven't been home for some time huh? How about taking a break from work a day or two? You should just rest at home and sleep all day." I wish I could do that. "Nah. Even if I stayed at home I'll be working my ass off." I looked outside the familiar neighborhood. "It's weird." Huh? "Whats weird?" I asked when she stopped at a red traffic light. She turned to me with a smile.

"Remember when you said that Luna, Claire and I are snobs that only expect everything from our rich parents?" I blushed. Why does she always reminded me of that day? "Yes, and do you have to mention that every now and then." She chuckled. "I'm not making you feel bad for saying so. It's just, those things you said to us, it's the thing that makes us want to try our best in school. We want to be someone not because of our parents but as an individual." Really? "Now look at us, we actually did it without any of our parents' help. Of course, Luna's a different story since her parents offer their help to build the company. But, I'm sure you already pay them back for what they had done, right!" I nodded. "A promise is a promise." I smiled. "That's not the point. Do you remember how you wish to have our lifestyle? You said if I were born in your family, I would a make difference rather than laughing at stupid things." Seriously though, why does she have to remind me of the time I was too anti-social? "Seriously Maya? What's the point of this conversation though?" I finally asked. "Now that you're successful, you didn't do what you wish to do when we were in high school. You even made us eat at a place where common people ate." True that. I made a difference in their lifestyle. "Maya, are you trying to make me feel better by telling me these? If that's your plan, it's not working at all." Maya puffed her cheek before driving again. "I was just reminiscing the past here. Don't be such a buzzkill." Maya parked her car at the roadside before we both walked out and went to our usual Japanese restaurant.

"There's a lot of expensive restaurants out there but this ... this is a legend among legend." I agreed with her this time. We've been coming here since our high school day and it was Claire who introduced us this little restaurant to us. We bought our meal ticket from a machine and went to the free seat on the bar. "Welcome." We both smiled and handed over our ticket. He pours two glass of tea for us to drink while we wait. "This rooibos tea is amazing. I feel so tired today. Maybe I should go home after sending you." Maya heaves a sigh of relief while I took a sip of the tea. Wow. "You're right." I took another sip and looked at the menu. Maybe I should order some sushi too. "Hey El, do you ever think about marrying someone?" Eh, what's with this question. "Of course. I'm a human being as well. There's a time where I thought about it. But then again, I don't think anyone would want someone who's a workaholic like I am." I laughed it off. "Really? I bet there's a lot of women out there would love to be married to you. You know, so they can spend your money that it." She chuckled. "If I have to pick, I want someone that understands my work. Someone who will never complain about my absence that is. Someone like Luna's husband perhaps?" Maya added. Nathan, Luna husband allowed his wife to work for me so he took this opportunity to quit his own job and be a 'housewife' or should o say, househusband. "Not everyone can be like Nathan though. He's such a caring man. Luna was lucky to have him." I smiled at the server. "Thank you," I said to the person who sent our food. "Well. Itadakimasu." We both said while bringing our hands together like Japanese people does before a meal.

***

I yawned when the elevator stopped on my floor. When the door open, a couple of my maids greeted me when I walked out straight towards my penthouse suite. "Good to be home." I walked towards the living room and slumped my body on the couch while looking at the night view of the city. "Do you need anything, Miss Eloise?" One of the maids asked. "For now, no. I already had dinner with Maya. I think all of you can go on and rest for tonight. If I need anything I'll call for you." The head maid bows her head. "Oh, before I retire for the night, there's a package for you. I placed it on top of your bed." A package? The head maid excuses herself before leaving me alone. I wonder what's in the package. I gathered all of my energy and went to my bedroom. Like the maid said, there's a package for me on my bed. I wonder who it's from though. "For Eloise, from Hatsu Ayame." Ayame? The Chief Administration Officer? I thought she's in Japan for one of the branch office meetings. When did she even have the time to do all this? My eyes widen when I saw the content of this package. A stack of files and even a couple of external hard drives were included. I reach for a pink card and read the content. "This is some of the proof that I manage to find while I'm here. There's no doubt, the current head of our Japanese branch office was using the money we provided for his own personal gain and selling few of our loyal clients to our rival company." Oh, this is a breakthrough. I knew it that sending her wasn't a bad idea. "In this package, it includes some of my pictures in swimsuits and sexy outfits. Do not forget about me while I'm working my ass off for you. With Love, Ayame." This girl! But, these pictures though. Pictures aside, this is a serious matter. Maybe I should go to Japan myself. I should check my schedule with Luna tomorrow. I removed the package from my bed and take off my jacket. I can just clean myself tomorrow morning before going to work. Before I could even close my eyes, I heard my door creak. I want to ignore it but, the person who came in decided to jump on me.

"Mama Eloise! You came home!" He's not that little baby anymore, that's for sure! "Jonathan?! When did you get so big?" I said before gasping for air. The head maid suddenly barged in and grabbed her son from on top of me. "I'm sorry miss. I was about to tuck him in when he suddenly vanished from my sight. Please forgive us." I laughed. "It's fine." She bow her head before went out from my room with her son. She closed the door behind her and finally, I manage to fall asleep like a log. The next morning, I was awakened by a loud singing right next to my ear. When I turned to the person singing twinkle twinkle little star, he gave me a smile before continue to sing. "I'm sorry miss, it's the only way to wake you. Also, breakfast is ready." The head maid smiled before she grabs her son and walked out from my room after opening the curtains. I think my alarm clock was quite unique since it's a human being named Jonathan. I chuckled just thinking about before I got up from my bed and went to the bathroom. After I'm done cleaning myself, I went to the closet that attached from my bathroom. Picking which clothes to wear is hard-work. Maybe I do need someone to take care of my needs. I yawned again after I'm done styling my hair. After making sure I look presentable enough, I went to the kitchen counter and took a seat next to Jonathan. Looks like he started eating before me.

"Where are you going?" I asked the little boy. "School." He said with his mouth full. "Oh, do you have friends already?" I asked after I thanked his mother for the food. "I do. They like me." I took a napkin and wiped his mouth before the syrup drip on his new clothes. "I can take him if you're busy." The head maid shakes her head. "There's no way I let my boss do that. I'll make sure to send him myself. Don't worry." She assured me. "Nonsense. I have time before going to work. Where's his school again?" I asked. The head maid looks like she wants to protest but I insisted. "Le Valley Elementary school." Oh, I know that place. I used to go there myself. "Got it. I know the road too well. Eat up, Jonathan. Mama Eloise will be sending you to school today." He seems excited. "Thank you, miss. I could just ask one of the maids who can drive to help me though." I waved it off. This is nothing. At least Jonathan here keeps my house cherry while I'm gone. "Any news from your husband?" I asked after Jonathan went to his room to take his backpack. "Nothing Miss. It's almost 3 months since our last call. But this is normal for us. He's in the army after all." She never fails to give me a smile even though she's probably worried about him. "I can make some call if you wish to know his whereabouts." She immediately declines my offer. "Really? It's not a big deal though. Miss Claire can help you since her father works at the ministry of defense." Again she declines.

"I'm sure he's just busy with his mission. Don't worry." But I feel bad for Jonathan since he never seen his father in person before. "Alright. But if you wish for it, just tell me and I'll make the call. Jonathan such a lucky boy to have such a strong mother like you. Don't worry about picking him up later as well. I'll do it. And please, don't turn down my offer. I see him as my own son as well." I excuse myself before I call for him. "Say goodbye to your mother." Jonathan did as told before he took my hand and we both went inside the elevator.