Chapter 21

Frederick POV

Tomorrow is the business gala and my plans for today included shopping for a tuxedo, shoe, and other clothing accessories. Kiel and Jane were the people I chose to accompany me for the shopping. Kiel was my best friend and his job at the mall was to assist me in picking the best outfit. As for Jane, her duty was to assist me in shopping for some items for the business gala.

I got up from my bed and sent a message to my best friend, telling him to be at my house by noon. I had already spoken to Jane the previous day at the office. I was waiting for her to default. She was slacking excessively and it had already become unbearable. 

I got up and put on my pajamas. I went downstairs to the kitchen in search of Kharis. But it seemed like I woke up way too early. I turned to look at the time and realized it was just 7:17 am. I sighed and decided to fix breakfast for myself. My tummy was rumbling that early and the woman meant to cater for me was sound asleep.

I opened the fridge and noticed how stocked it was. Kharis had mentioned she was going grocery shopping, so, wasn't surprised a bit. I wondered what sort of dress she picked at the mall.

I fixed myself a plate of fried eggs and toast. It wasn't difficult to prepare, trust me. I may be bossy, wealthy, handsome, and way too busy, I still knew my way around the kitchen. I was an amazing chef and no, I'm not bragging. 

I tidied up the spot where I cooked and served myself. I ate quietly and kept scrolling on my iPad for the recent news. It's been over 40 minutes since I woke up and Kharis wasn't downstairs yet. What might she be doing up there, still laying on her bed?

I couldn't wait for her to come downstairs and find me eating. She'd be shocked and scared. 

"Good morning Sir", I turned in the direction of the greeting and noticed Lois walking in.

Hope you had a splendid night? I asked him. I cared about my employees as much as I cared about my business. If they were in a good state, it meant I would be in a good state as well as my business. 

"It was good sir. Any plans for today?", He asked.

"Yes. Tomorrow is the business gala and I'll be shopping for some items with Mr. Kiel and Jane".

"Okay, sir".

"You have met with Jane right"?, I asked him.

"I don't think so,'' he answered.

"Jane is my secretary. She may show up at the gate so please let her through", I said and continued with my iPad. 

After 2 minutes, I noticed Lois was still in the room. 

"Everything okay"?, I asked.

"Yes sir. Please where is Kharis"?, He asked

I turned and glared at him. Why the hell was he asking after Kharis. I felt jealous. I had seen both of them close to each other and she was closer to him than she was to me. 

"Is everything okay", I asked.

I haven't seen her this morning. It is so unlike her to wake up late. Kharis is an early riser. Besides, I'm starving", he chuckled.

I stared at him and didn't know how to respond. 
"I guess she's still sleeping, I haven't seen her since I woke up, I said and returned to eating my food. I heard him leaving the room back outside.

Immediately he left, Kharis started walking downstairs but first, she knocked on my door. I think she came downstairs because she didn't get a response from my bedroom.

Good morning sir, I heard her say as she got to the dining room.

I didn't move or even answer her greeting. I continued eating.

"Good morning", I heard her say again.

"Good morning Madam, I answered.

She stood at the stairs and I barely could even see her. 

"Why were you asleep till now? I asked her

"I'm sorry sir. I overslept and didn't even hear my alarm when it rang", she answered.

I ignored her response and stood up to take my plate to the kitchen. She walked in my direction and offered to take the plate from my hands. I looked at her and immediately, she comported herself and stepped out of my way.

"Kharis, I need you to know that I can take care of myself if you do not take care of me", I said to her and walked out of the kitchen. 

I lay on my bed and slept off.

Writer's POV

The creative department had decorated the hall for the business gala. The hall was a remarkable blend of black and gold. Everything was arranged to perfection. And for the first time, it seemed as though Mr. Frederick would be delighted.

Bouquet, ribbons, art painting, and more were used to decorate the hall. Everyone was busy in a bid to make the business gala a success.

The technical department had carried out a series of construction of electrical wire to make sure sound and light were top-notch. All of the company's departments knew that the preparation of everything for the gala was a chance to get in their boss' good book.

The purpose of the gala dinner was to celebrate the company's achievements and reward successes. And also, to introduce new perspectives to potential high-end clients, donors, and investors present.

Each table was reserved for a particular group of companies. 

The staff were all looking forward to the business gala. Do you know what it feels like to impress a wealthy boss? Well, they all knew and that was why they tripped their efforts.
Kharis POV

When I went to the mall the other day, I saw lots of powerful women and it triggered a spark. I've been thinking of ways I could become powerful. I woke up this morning feeling intense pain in my body. One of my wounds had opened. Getting up or turning around was cumbersome.