Lily
The Luminous Works Grand Hotel loomed above me, towering over all other buildings. Its glass facade sparkled in the sunlight, giving a glow that left me equally awestruck and intimidated.I stood unmoving at the entrance, my belly tumbling from trepidation as I looked at the place.Almost a month ago I came to this hotel for my party. Now however, I was here for a completely different reason.Taking a deep breath, I pushed through the revolving door into the place. Looking around at the grandeur of the lobby. There was no way I could be used to such a sight.I swallowed thickly, heading to the reception.“Excuse me. My name is Lilian Grace. I was brought here for an…interview ?” I winced inwardly as how timid I sounded.‘What if it was a joke or prank?' I flushed at the thought. I would be so humiliated at such a cruel joke.The clacking of heels rose from behind me but I paid it no mind until suddenly a voice came from behind.“Lillian Grace?”I swiftly turned to face the figure. It was a young woman in a bright red pantsuit. Surprise filled me as I looked at her. From top to bottom she exuded elegance that left me awestruck.My thoughts came to a halt as I realised she was calling me.“Yes." I stiltedly nodded in response. In return she passed a polite smile"Good to see you Miss Grace. You may call me Emily. Please, follow me."I nodded silently. Immediately after my response, she turned away, leading me away from the lobby. I followed her lead, eyes darting around, taking in the lavish surroundings.She led me through until we finally entered a private room.The place was wide, furnished with a mahogany table and plush chairs. A large window offered a breathtaking view of the city below. I looked at it in awe."Please have a seat Miss Grace," I quickly whipped my head towards where she sat, gesturing to the chair opposite her. If she noticed my previous blank state, she didn't say.I obeyed quickly, my nerves tingling with anxiety.“Theres no need to be nervous.” she said, a comforting smile on her face.“Now to begin. You'll be working directly with the CEO as his secretary."I flinched. “What?”She gave a firm smile, almost sympathetic. But it was more like noise as I tried to wrap my head around her words. There was no time to think though as Emily began a thorough briefing of the job.As she spoke, I couldn't help but feel in over my head. I still couldn't process this new information whilst listening to her.Once she was done, I couldn't resist the nagging question that had been on my mind since the unexpected job offer. "Emily, I appreciate this opportunity, but I'm curious; how did Luminous Works find me?"Her expression wavered for a moment, a hint of hesitation in her eyes. "It was a decision made by the CEO.""The CEO?" I repeated breathlessly. my confusion morphing into pure shock.Everyone knew about the owner and CEO of the Luminous Works hotel- with building a large hotel magnate in the industry, who wouldn't have? But knowing him was very vague as the man himself was a mystery of his own. He didn't attend any events nor show his face. The only thing people- me included - knew of him was the hotel and his name.Alexander Sinclair.And now, not only was I working for him, he had personally chosen me?"I never applied for a position here. How did they even know about me?" I finally asked, wrestling with the shock of everything.Emily sighed softly, "Miss Grace, all I can say is that your portfolio went through some unique channels."I furrowed my brow, puzzled by her cryptic response. "Unique channels?""I can't say much. But in short, your credentials stood out, and the CEO was interested. That's why he extended this opportunity." Emily ended.I couldn't decipher anything from her expression. The mystery of it all made me equally intrigued and anxious. Passing a shaky smile."I appreciate the offer, Emily, but I've gotta admit, this all feels rather... unconventional."She nodded, her expression sympathetic. "I understand your concerns, Miss Grace. But I assure you, you'll be taken care of here."A shuddered breath left me. First yesterday and now this. It was all too surreal…Looking back at her another thing sparked to mind.“Um…I just realised that there was supposed to be an interview.” I stammered out, nervous if I was saying the wrong thing.Surprise flitted across her face for a moment before her smile eased into something more teasing.“What interview?”….As I walked through the corridors, my mind was abuzz with questions and uncertainty.Emily had left soon after her cryptic reply to my question. Before then, she encouraged me to have a tour of the hotel and I conceded, doing just what she said. Yet now as I walked around, I barely noticed a thing.The mystery surrounding my sudden job offer had deepened, and the uncertainty behind it even more so. But most of all, the core thought in my head was how on earth did this mystery man choose me? Surely there were more skilled people there with more experience than I did.Yet, despite my doubt and uncertainty, I couldn't deny the allure of this new opportunity.I pulled out my phone, dialling a number. After a few rings, she finally answered."Hey, Lily! What's up?" Malina's voice echoed through the phone.A smile tugged at my lips as I replied."Hey, Malina. I've got news."“What happened ?" She asked, curiosity in her tone."I got a job," I said, my voice filled with a mix of enthusiasm and disbelief.There was a moment of silence on the other end, and I could almost hear the gears turning in Malina's head. "Lily, that's amazing! Congratulations! Tell me all about it." She implored.I leaned against the exterior wall of the hotel, explaining the details of what happened. Immediately I was done, she squealed happily on the other side, so excitedly it was like she was the one getting a new job.“That's incredible Lily. I'm so happy for you. You've been through a lot lately, and you deserve this opportunity," Malina exclaimed breathlessly. Her excitement brewed mine, making me even more lighthearted.Suddenly she turned quiet, Malina spoke again soft with emotion. "You've had such a hard time, Lily. You deserve this and I know for a fact that you'll kick ass over there.""I have got no doubt that you'll handle it like a pro." Malina assured me.I couldn't help but chuckle at her vote of confidence. "You're making me blush, Malina." I teased.She laughed heartily in response, bringing a smile to my face.“So, when do you start?" Malina asked."They want me to begin in a few days," I replied. "I'll be working directly for the owner of the hotel."Malina's voice was filled with excitement. "Holy- that's… that's incredible, Lily!"I took a deep breath, my fingers tightening around my phone. "Malina, there's something I haven't told you about how I got this job." I spoke hesitantly. "...What do you mean?" She asked, confusion coloring her voice.I hesitated for a moment, my thoughts racing. "I…didn't actually apply for this job, Malina. They found my credentials somehow, and offered me the position. It's...weird."There was a pause on the other end of the line, and I could almost hear the gears turning in Malina's mind. "Wait a minute Lily, that's…strange. How did they even get all that?" She questioned.I nodded in agreement even though she couldn't see me. "That's what I'm trying to figure out."The thought of the faceless stranger and the hotel card came to mind, but I soon shut it out.I sighed, "It's as if the job just fell into my lap, I'm still trying to wrap my head around it."With a pause, I spoke again "But… I can't shake the feeling that I may never get a chance like this again."‘Much less in this kind of place.' I thought to myself. The thought that I could get this kind of offer after months of searching…it was like finding a river after weeks of thirst.No matter how I got discovered, there was no way I could let this job go.Malina let out a sigh of resignation. "If you feel that it's the right path for you, Lily, I'll support your decision. Just promise me you'll be cautious and keep me in the loop."Her unwavering support touched my heart, and I promised, "I will, Malina. If anything happens you're the first person I'll call.""Lily, I'm the only one you'd call." The amusement was clear in her voice.I giggled at that."Alright, alright I'll talk to you as soon as I get back home." drawled."No problem girl, I'll catch you later.""Bye." I said, ending the call.With my phone in hand I made my way through hotel lobby, my thoughts still occupied by the conversation with Malina. I had shared the news of my unexpected job offer but had carefully omitted the stranger and the black card so she wouldn't be worried.As I approached the entrance of the hotel, I spotted a figure in the distance, a silhouette that seemed strangely familiar. My heart quickened as recognition washed over me, and I froze in my tracks.There, standing near the grand entrance, was a lone man, face out of my view.His presence was unexpected and electrifying, and it sent a jolt through me.He hadn't noticed me, his attention absorbed by something in the distance. I took a moment to observe him discreetly, my heart pounding with a mixture of anticipation and uncertainty. His tall, lean figure was clad in a tailored suit that clung snuggly to his body. The way he carried himself, with an air of confidence and strength, was so very familiar.Why?Before I could gather my thoughts, he turned away, walking until he was out of sight. My gaze followed him until he disappeared from view.My heart raced at the spot he had disappeared into. Strangely enough, I couldn't stop looking.Who was he?LilyThe day had finally come. I had been at work for barely a week and had tried adjusting to my new space. With an office of my own and plenty of work to do, there was no time to mingle. I didn't mind, too engrossed in my new workload to be bothered.But now something new has come up. A memo had arrived in the morning, stating an impromptu meeting with several partners. One which I had to attend.And Alexander Sinclair, the CEO would be there.I was looking forward to it with a mix of excitement and curiosity. Finally, I would come face to face with the man who had hired me.As I entered the conference room, my heart was shaking with anticipation. The place held a long mahogany table surrounded by plush chairs. The large window offered a panoramic view of the cityscape.I took my seat, adjusting the stack of papers and a sleek tablet that held the details of the meeting.Moments passed, and the room gradually filled with the hushed murmurs of the arriving stakeholders. I glanced ar
Lily"Come on, where are they?" I grumbled in frustration.After what felt like an hour of searching, I finally found my prize. "Aha, there you are!" Relief filled me as I brought out the mint gum. I tossed one into my mouth, relief filling me as the cool feeling engulfed my mouth.Looking down, I groaned at the mess I made in my search. Everything that had been in my purse was spread out on the table. "Of course" I muttered under my breath, swiftly gathering everything together.The mint helped wash away the lingering taste of vomit. But I couldn't shake the almost daily bouts of nausea that had been plaguing me. The morning after the first instance, I had prepared myself for the illness to come, only to wake up all the same. I thought it was a fluke until the only moments after taking lunch, I threw up again.The constant cycle had gone on for almost a week now and I did my best to hold it in "If this keeps up, I might have to go to a hospital," I mumbled to myself, albeit rel
LilyI groaned, frustration filling me to the brim as I faced another dead end. Almost twenty minutes had passed since I left Alexander's office, but I hadn't found it.His office was the goal, but I'd committed my greatest blunder yet; I hadn't gotten the directions to it. I was in such a rush to leave Alexander's office that I hadn't thought to ask for it. I glanced at the document in my hand, sighing.Was I really going to fail my first official task like this?I began walking again. As I navigated the surroundings, I took note of the different places I passed—a lavish ballroom with crystal chandeliers, a chic lounge with plush velvet sofas, and a corridor covered with a stunning art collection. Luminous Works truly lived up to its reputation.Yet as I turned again, I found myself reaching another dead end. My internal compass clearly failed me.Direction had never been my strong suit but this time, I was completely lost.Just as I was contemplating my next move, a familiar voi
LilyAs I returned home, every part of my body weighed me down. My body ached and I could barely think.The rest of the night was a blur as I stepped into the bedroom, collapsing onto the bed.The mattress embraced me and I closed my eyes, slipping into a fitful sleep.In the morning, I woke up with a gnawing hunger. It was my fault for sleeping off without eating. I sighed getting off my bed.My bare feet padded across the cool, hardwood floor as I made my way to the kitchen. Opening the fridge for food, I stopped as I recognized a large pack. The same pack Lisa had given me yesterday.As she had instructed I waited in the hotel lobby after work. When she'd arrived, she came with a small pack, handing it over to me.“You can try it now or put it in the fridge for later.” she'd winked at me before bidding me goodbye.Even in my exhausted state, I still followed her instructions. Taking out the pack, I opened it, only to gasp.There, nestled within the container, was steak, accompani
Lily It was as if time had ground to a halt, and I found myself trapped in a nightmarish reality that I couldn't escape. Panic surged within me, twisting my gut into knots as I struggled to comprehend it.My hands shook uncontrollably as I tried to process what had just happened. My mind coursed through in denial. Maybe the test was wrong? Maybe there was a mistake somewhere? But deep down, I knew the truth. The symptoms… I couldn't ignore them any longer. The dam of emotions that I'd been holding back burst. Tears welled up in my eyes, and I bit down hard on my trembling lip, desperately trying to stifle the sobs threatening to escape.‘I was pregnant.’ The thought echoed in my mind horribly.How could I have been so careless? I'd barely remembered anything else of that night, not even whether he'd used protection. Like a fool, I had forgotten about it.I had dreams. Heading into this city for college and then for work. I had left my home so I could be successful, so I could t
LilyI swallowed, standing in front of his office for the second time ever.I didn't know what he was going to say, but considering the look on his face, it wasn't going to be good.Sucking in a deep breath, I braced myself for what was to come,.Twisting the lock, I finally entered.His back faced me, his large frame more of a silhouette with a his black suit and hair.Closing the door behind me, I felt the tension thicken as silence grew. Holding in my tremors, I silently prayed for the best.“Sir-”"Do you…” my blood ran cold at his icy voice. “Know what you've done?”I curled my hands into fists, trying to stave away the panic. “Sir, I'm sorry for my blunder in the meeting today. It… it's been a difficult day.” I apologised, hoping it would be enough.As he turned to me, I knew it was all for naught.“I see." He drawled out “So will you say this to all the other members present? Perhaps you think your apologies are worth anything in the business.”“No sir. I-”He quieted me by
LilyReaching home, I took up Lisa's food, warming it to eat. Fortunately, just like before steak was amongst it, and I relished every bite.From eating to rearranging my place slightly, I had done everything until there were no other options.I stalled my decision for long enough.My fingers twitched toward my phone on the bedside table. My heart raced with trepidation, the weight of the decision to tell them hanging heavy in the air. I hesitated, my finger hovered just above the screen. I convinced myself that I would make the calls tonight, but now, at this moment, hesitation gripped me.Perhaps I could do this another time, I wondered. Maybe they were asleep. Especially Malina, who was also busy with her own job.All my thoughts fell flat. Excuses. That was all it was. I couldn't delay this any longer. Taking a deep breath, I finally dialled my mother's number first.“Hey baby.” her voice was weary yet warm, filling me with nostalgia.I hadn't spoken to my mother since I began
LilyI remained frozen in place, my mind reeling.I could have sworn I'd heard my name. It wasn't something I could miss.Were they talking about me? Or had I mistaken it for something else?Looking at the door, my curiosity piqued. It was wrong to eavesdrop, and yet. Looking around to find nobody in sight, I quietly shuffled closer to the door, pressing my ear against the door.Their voices were still muffled under the door, but I could pick up their words easier.“You…hiding…from him.”I furrowed my brows as I strained to hear more. Some parts were still difficult to hear, but no doubt that was Mr Collins' voice.Alexander's voice made me perk up, clearer "I understand your concerns Nathan, but we must tread carefully. We can't afford a direct confrontation at this stage."“And as for the other matter,” he said, emphasising the word 'other'“There's no need to worry about it. Nobody knows. For now, things will remain as they are."‘Know what?’My curiosity grew at the vague words.