Chapter 2
958 Words
ALI
Oh crap! This can't be happening. My life was going well until this moment. I don't know what I did wrong to deserve this twist of fate.
"Sancho Rodrigo Dela Vega? Please tell me he's not the Dela Vega who owns Hacienda Dela Vega. Please, I'm begging you, tell me it's not him."
I didn't even know whom I was fooling at that moment. His name was so unique that what I was saying seemed impossible.
"Ali, what are you talking about? There's no other Dela Vega in the New York except the family that owns Hacienda Dela Vega. Of course, it's the same person. Don't be silly," Jeanette said, laughing.
"I'm dead. I am so dead! Can I take back my answer? Can I back out?" I pleaded.
"But why? I need you here, Ali. You're my last hope. Why are you backing out? Is something wrong?" Jeanette asked, puzzled.
"Everything! Everything is wrong!" I exclaimed.
I was panicking at that moment. I didn't know what to do. I had spent years trying to move on from him. It had taken me a long time to get over him, and I didn't want any part of him.
"Why? Explain it to me so I can understand. What's happening that's making you act like this?"
"I just don't want to handle this account. Give me anything, just not him. Please, not him."
"You have to tell me why. I need a valid reason before I decide whether to grant your request or let you handle this client."
"Remember when I told you about the darkest day in my life? The story is about the guy who ruined my life. That's him."
"It's Sancho Rodrigo Dela Vega? The guy you talked about, the one who broke your heart and left you?"
"The very same, unless they've changed his name to Satan or Lucifer," I replied sarcastically.
"How did that happen?" Jeanette still asked, curious.
"It's a long story. Please, I don't want to go down memory lane right now. Just tell me you won't let me handle his account."
"I'll do what I can. But I can't promise anything. You know how much I need this, and I can't mess it up. I'll do anything to get this client, even if it means dragging you into it," she said, then left me in the pantry, feeling lost.
I still couldn't believe this was happening. I had tried to avoid him for so long. It wasn't that difficult because we moved in completely different circles. I just had to stay away from places where the wealthy like him frequented.
For now, I would hold on to Jeanette's promise that she would do everything to keep this account away from me. But I knew that if it came down to it and she needed my help, I wouldn't have a choice. Business was business, and even though we were friends, I understood she would prioritize the company's well-being over my request.
My day proceeded as usual, but I couldn't help but feel anxious about Jeanette's decision. Her choice would have a significant impact on my life. This big account would provide me with financial stability, but I didn't want to risk it, especially considering the potential changes in my life if we were to meet again.
Right before the end of my shift, Jeanette summoned me to her office. This was it—the moment of truth. I just hoped that luck would be on my side.
I knocked before entering her office. I found her behind her desk, holding her head as if in pain.
"Hi, you asked for me," I said. Only then did she focus her attention on me.
"I'm sorry, Ali, but I have to do this. I need all possible options. None of the account executives in this company can handle him. I don't know what's wrong. They all say he's grumpy and easily angered. While he doesn't resort to physical violence, my employees are terrified of him. I have no choice but to put my best foot forward, and you know what that means, right, Ali?"
"Yes, I know. But I really can't do this," I replied sadly.
"I'm sorry too, but I have no other choice. Just accept this project. The commission for this one is substantial. It's a win-win situation. You'll earn a lot, and I can maintain my position. Just put your past aside for once and think about how much you'll earn. You could even start a small business for your mom. Isn't that what you've always wanted? This money could be a great help to your family."
I was still stunned, weighing the situation.
"I'll make sure you earn a lot; just accept it."
I desperately needed this. I couldn't afford to lose my job. Sometimes, in life, we make a small sacrifice for our family's happiness. Even if it means risking my heart once again.
"Okay, fine, I'll do it," I replied hesitantly.
"Great! Here's his address. Go to his office early in the morning. You don't have to come to the office if you don't want to. Just focus on this project. I trust you. Don't let me down. If you pull this off, I might consider giving you a promotion; who knows? So, do your best, okay?"
I simply nodded. I still couldn't believe what was happening. I knew my life would change dramatically when I woke up tomorrow.
"Good luck, Ali," I heard Jeanette say before I left her office.
I collected my things and exited the office. I needed a lot of energy for the battle that awaited me the next day, and I had a feeling it would be a long day.
****************
- Writer
