Finally Found You

It’s the start of the month of October. It’s usually warm in the daytime and cold at night in Rome, Italy. A beautiful woman with a height of 5’9 ft was jogging in Villa Ada Park. She used to come here since her husband died and her life became a mess.

She kept herself locked and started to get depressed. When her best friend, Sasha saw her like this, she took her to Villa Ada Park to cheer her on and encourage her to start her life again.

Not for her but for her son. Then, she started to walk in that park every morning and slowly her mind started getting clear and she started to look for a job.

As she was young when she got married. She didn’t have any qualifications to apply for a job. But, by her appearance, she looked well qualified. The way she spoke to people impressed them immediately.

She didn’t have any choice for a job so she applied to be a receptionist in many hotels, restaurants, and parlors. She was not really confident about getting a job. But, one day out of the blue, after a month of her interview. She has been called from a Hotel named Hotel Colosseum, a 3star hotel. Asking her to start the job as a receptionist.

It was totally unexpected for her, she said yes immediately and started her job as a receptionist, two months ago. It was not a big salary but at least she has taken the first step towards her new life.

As usual, she was jogging in high spirits without noticing a powerful gaze on her. For the last 3 months, that gaze was constantly on her. But she never looked at him as if he’s invisible to her.

He had been exercising in this park for a long time. But, nobody was able to get his attention except her.

When he first saw her, she was so skinny, pale, and looked pitiful sitting on a bench, thinking of something and crying for half an hour. He used to see her crying quietly but never tried to console her.

He wanted her to come over from it. And one day, he saw her walking instead of sitting at her regular place. She was walking with headphones on, still not interacting with people. But at least, she is not crying now.

He used to follow her on walks. As usual, she didn’t notice him at all. After exercise, she turned all sweaty and her skin became red like a tomato. For other women, being sweaty means ugly but she looked more beautiful after being exhausted.

Now, her skin is not pale anymore. It’s getting her color back and though now her body shape is also going back to normal. After finishing her walk, she gets back to her home. And he headed back to his home.

He didn’t follow her after that, he just used to see her in the morning at the park. It’s the main purpose of his coming to this park. He didn’t follow her further nor did he know her name at all.

...

After Lisa Mathew reached her home, she took shower, ate breakfast, and headed to Hotel in her working clothes. When she reached the hotel, everyone was discussing something and suddenly one of her colleagues pulled her aside and told her shocking news.

“Hey, do you know that the owner of the Hotel was caught redhanded by his wife? She has taken everything from him. He is left with this hotel only and he’s going to sell it to survive. I don’t know if the new owner would bring his own staff or let us continue this job.?”

After listening to it, she got really nervous. It’s just been two months, she started her job and now someone can kick her out just like this.

Just when she was feeling grateful, Life again shows her there is no peace without any hardships.

Just as she was lost in her thoughts, her colleague pulled her back by saying, “See, your newcomer but still you feel disappointed, and what about us.? We have been working for more than 5 years. I swear if they kick us out. We are going to protest about it.” As she said it, another colleague also nodded in agreement.

As Lisa had just started this job, she never gossiped about her colleague. And never got herself in the workplace politics. She managed an apologetic smile to her colleagues and went straight to her desk. Till afternoon, she did her work ignoring the gossip around her.

While she was working her head down, a man tapped into the desk. She looked up and saw a man wearing a black colored suit and black sunglasses looking like a spy or serial killer.

“Hello.! How can I help you.?” She asked politely.

“Hello.! I forget my card inside the presidential suite. Can I get another one.?” He asked with a straight face.

She searched in her computer for a presidential suite to verify the man before handing the key. She saw that it was booked by the name of Augustus Carlos.

So, she asked him, “Are you Mr. Augustus Carlos.?”

He replied, “No”

She said, “I’m sorry sir, the suite is booked by the name of Augustus Carlos. I can only hand him the card, not anyone else except him.”

“What.?” The man got angry and shocked. “Do you know who I am.?” He asked.

Lisa gave him a polite smile and said calmly, “Sorry sir, Rules Policy.”

While the man was staring at her, a hand approached from behind him calmly said in a low voice, “Go, I’ll handle this.”

Lester saw his boss and a look of fear appeared on his face. He tried to apologize to him because that Stupid woman is not handing him the card. His boss would think of him as a useless man, who couldn’t even bring a room card for him.

He ignored Lester and stood in front of the desk. “Hello.! I am Augustus Carlos.”

Lisa looked at him from her screen. His face looked mixedrace, she couldn’t tell if he was Italian or AmAugustusan. His body looked well built in his threepiece dark blue suit, long legs, and cheetahlike physique. He was about 6’3 ft tall. He was wearing bluecolored branded glasses in which she can see her face.

After taking a close look at him, she asked. “Hello.! Mr. Augustus can I see your i.d please.?”

Augustus looked at her with admiration and there was a slight light in his eyes, he immediately thought of something and said, “Well, I forgot my i.d in my room with my card.”

“Sorry sir, Rules Policy. I need to see your ID. `` She said apologetically.

“Why do you think I would pretend to be Mr. Augustus Carlos.?” He asked curiously.

“I don’t know, sir,” Lisa said.

“Maybe he is a famous man. What do you think.? Ms. Lisa Mathew.?” He asked teasingly.

“Sir, I can’t comment on this. It's a rules policy even if a man is famous or not I have to follow the policy.” She said in a serious professional tone.

“How about this? You come with me and I’ll show you my i.d card I left in my room.” He offered.

She hesitated then said, “Ok sir.”

“Great”

As he was about to enter the lift. He signaled Lester not to follow. Lester stopped and turned away from the elevator. After the door closed, Lester said to himself,

“What’s wrong with the boss.? Just now when he told me he forgot his card. He was so angry. Before stepping out of the car, he had sent me to bring the key and now suddenly his mood changed. And he’s happily heading in the elevator with the receptionist when he can call the manager for a card and get her fired.”

He scratched his head and looked at the front desk astonishingly.

In The Lift

Augustus glanced at Lisa and asked, “Are you new here.?”

“Yes, it started two months ago.” She replied.

He nodded, “I see.”

On the tenth floor, the elevator door opened. Lisa indicated him to go to the left side with her, he followed. She swiped the car and let him in. He went inside and took out his wallet from his coat and took out his ID with a smile. He has never felt so happy by seeing his ID.

Clearly, he was lying to her so that he could spend more time with her. He showed her the ID, she got satisfied and smiled, “Have a nice stay.”

When she turned around, suddenly her manager came up with a bouquet of flowers in his hand and said, “Mr. Carlos, my apology. She is new here and she didn’t know about you. Please forgive her, she won’t do it again.” Giving her a hard glare.

She knew this kind of glare, she lowered her head and said in a low voice. “I was just following rules policy.”

“Mr. Carlos doesn’t need to follow policy.” He said angrily to her.

“Oh..! It’s alright Mr. Corneto. She was doing her duty. By the way, I’m impressed by her.” Augustus interrupted and then stretched his hand and said, “Hope we’ll meet soon, Lisa Mathew.”

Lisa stared at his hand for a moment. Then her manager elbowed her and she shook his hand apologetically.

After bidding goodbye, Augustus leaned on the sofa and smiled. “I Finally Found You, Lisa.”

As Lisa was walking to the elevator, she thought about what happened just now. Her manager is a fiftyfive years old man, and he talks with courtesy and respect with Mr. Augustus. Although, he is younger than him.

He must be some big shot that’s why he is here apologizing. Have I committed a huge mistake by asking his ID.?

As she stepped inside the elevator, she asked in curiosity, “Who is he.?”

Her manager turned around and asked surprisingly, “You really don’t figure it out yet.? Don’t you.?”

She shook her head.

He then said, “He's going to buy this hotel. He is here to sign the deal and you were going to spoil it right now. Thank God, someone has seen you getting in the elevator with him, and informed me. Otherwise, it will be a great disaster for us. I have informed the owner too, he will apologize too for your Stupid Professional Behavior.”

She sighed and lowered her head. When they both came out of the elevator, her colleague asked in a panic, “Is everything fine now.?

The manager said, “For now, I handled it but in the future, I can’t say.” Shifting his gaze to Lisa.

Lisa felt very ashamed of herself at this moment. Her manager has never talked to her in this tone in the last two months. She must have done something huge this time.

Looking at her being scolded by the Manager. Her colleague tried to cheer her up by saying, “it’s ok Lisa. It happened. Don’t be disheartened. You were lucky that I saw you and Mr. Carlos taking the elevator. After that, I asked his PA what happened and he told me everything you did.”

Lisa looked at her and said defending, “I was just following the rules.!”

Her colleague patted her shoulder, “I know, I know. But rules don’t apply to rich people.” She sighed looking at Lisa.

“Whatever..”

Lisa held up herself and went to her desk and continued working. She was so upset that she didn’t have an appetite to eat.

In the evening 7’o’ clock, just when Lisa was packing to go. The telephone rang on the desk. She answered, “Hello, this is reception. How can I help you.?”

“Lisa.! This is Augustus. Lost room card, remember me.?” Augustus asked her mockingly.

She rolled her eyes. “Yes, I remember. How can I help you.?”

“Why are you still working.? Do you have a night shift today.?” He asked concernedly.

“I was just about to go when you called.” She replied calmly. “How can I help you.?”

“Well, I just wanted to inform you that I am very tired and going to sleep. As I have taken pills, my sleep should not be disturbed by anyone. No matter what happens, nobody should disturb me. Kindly inform all your staff.” He said in a cold and straight tone and then yawned.

“Okay, duly noted. By the way, you can put a “Do Not Disturb” sign at your door handle.” She said it and he hung up the call.

“Sharp tongue.!” Said Augustus wickedly and looked at Lester.

“Lester, do it.”

“Okay, Boss.” Said Lester and walked out of the suite.

After the call, Lisa wrote down Augustus’s request of not disturbing and handed it to the other receptionist, before leaving.

As she left the hotel and started walking. She heard the fire alarm. When she turned around, people had already started running out of the hotel in panic.

Lisa rushed back to the hotel and asked another receptionist, “What’s the matter.?”

“There has been an explosion on the tenth floor. The manager has ordered to vacate the building. Help is on the way. I am calling everyone’s room to vacate it. Can you help.?”

Lisa nodded and called the room numbers. She called the Presidential Suite too, but nobody answered.

She then remembered that he told her, he took pills he must be asleep by this time. She panicked, what if something happened to him. After all, he is going to be our new owner.

She rushed to the stairs to find the Manager. The manager was on the first floor helping people to evacuate the building. Lisa held the Manager’s arm and said.

“Mr. Augustus.! He’s sleeping in the Presidential Suite. You should wake him up..”

The manager shouted in response, “What.? How do you know.?”

“He called at reception to inform everyone to not disturb him.” She said while helping people on the stairs.

The manager looked at her and then looked up in disbelief, “I can’t go there, I’m an old man. Help is coming, we can wait, don't worry.”

Lisa widened her eyes, “But the explosion was on the tenth floor. What if something happened to him.?”

“I can’t do anything.” He said apologetically.

Lisa couldn’t believe it and glared at him. Her strong glare made him uncomfortable and he snapped, “Why don’t you go up there and save him, instead of staring at me.”

He put a room card in her hand. Lisa looked at it nodded and left angrily. He looked at her back disappointedly.

There was a flood of people running down the stairs in one direction. And it was very difficult for Lisa to go through them in the opposite direction.

After climbing the stairs to the fifth floor, she was relieved that nobody was left in the hotel. Thank God.. but Mr. Augustus, shit..! Thinking of him, she removed her sandals and climbed up the stairs at fastest.

She reached the tenth floor and smoke was all over. She covered her mouth and headed to the Presidential Suite. She unlocked the door and entered.

Nobody was there, she headed to the bedroom and pushed open the door. “Mr. Augustus, wake up.”

She froze at the moment. Augustus was sitting on an armchair beautifully dressed without wearing his coat, and reading some documents calmly. As if there is no explosion at all.

Augustus looked up and saw Lisa standing at the door. Her hair is messy, she’s barefoot, her face had some black marks and her clothes were rumpled.

She fell on the ground coughing hard. Augustus rushed over to her and helped her to drink water.

She was trying to catch her breath while drinking water. After a while, when Augustus was sure she is ready to talk. He asked,

“What are you doing.?”

“There is an explosion. We are evacuating the building. You didn’t answer the call so I came over to wake you up..”

By hearing her words, he was shocked. She came up by herself to save me, stupid women. What if something happened to her. Why didn't she run away, and save her own life.?

He stood up and called Lester, “It’s enough, stop it now.”

Lisa looked at his calmness and couldn’t figure out what’s going on?

After a minute, the alarm went off and Lester came in.

“It’s all done, Boss. What’s next.?”

Lester asked. He didn’t notice Lisa who was sitting on the ground.

“Fired all of them, a bunch of idiots, right now.! I don’t want those cowards in my hotel. They will ruin my reputation .”

Augustus said angrily and then pointed at Lisa, “Except her.”

Just then Lester realized there was a third person in the room.

Lisa looked at both men looking down at her, she felt embarrassed and tried to get up.

She has climbed stairs to the tenth floor and hasn't eaten anything since her breakfast. She naturally felt weak, Lester came in immediately and supported her to stand.

When Augustus saw his hand touching her. He shot a glance at him and he withdrew his hand immediately in fear.

Lisa looked at Augustus. He is now not wearing his sunglasses. And she can clearly see his deep blue eyes. How could someone have that much clear and beautiful eyes..!

Augustus looked into her eyes and asked, “Why do you come here.? To wake me.? Are you stupid.? You could have hurt yourself.? Look at yourself.! By just climbing stairs, you’re exhausted. How would you take me out of this room, huh.? Do you think you can fly.?” He roared.

Lisa protested, “I am not stupid..! It’s just out of humanity Mr. Augustus. Even if there was a person whom I don’t even care about, I would have saved him out of humanity.”

“What.? You mean, you care for me.?” He asked, his eyes twinkling.

“No, Mr. Augustus. You misunderstood.” She said immediately.

A flash of disappointment crosses his face. Meanwhile, Lisa was still puzzled by his calm nature and couldn’t figure out why he and his secretary were not taking this explosion seriously.

Instead of leaving the building, He is ordering his secretary to fire all the staff. And his secretary is asking what’s next.? Weird right...

When Augustus saw her puzzled look. He asked in irritation. “What’s wrong.?”

“Why didn't you react to the news of the explosion? Why are you so calm.?” Lisa asked nervously.

“It was fake.” He replied lazily.

“But...” just as Lisa was trying to argue Lester came forward and said with a smile. “It was a drill, Miss Lisa.”

Lisa frowned and Lester continued, “It is the Boss's method to check the staff's hard work and unfortunately, they failed. Now, we will bring new staff members who will put their life at risk to help others. Just like you did today. You proved yourself that you are indeed truly devoted to your job.”

After praising Lisa, Lester thought maybe his boss would be happy now. But instead, Augustus sneered at him and asked rudely, “Are you done.?”

Lester hesitated and nodded his head down.

“You can leave first, Lester.” He barked those words and Lester left the room without taking a single glance.

By seeing she is alone with him. Lisa also said in a calming tone. “I should leave too.” And turned around.

“I’ll walk you out.” Augustus' voice came from behind.

In the living room, she bent down to pick her heels which she threw off while entering.

Augustus took a great look at her ass.

Lisa turned and caught him staring. She asked annoyingly, “What are you looking at.?”

Augustus came back to his senses and said, “Can’t tell a person who exercises daily is not even able to climb the stairs without heels.?”

“How did you know I exercise daily.? Lisa frowned.

“Well, you have a good physique. Just guessing..” Augustus said in a mocking way so that she doesn’t doubt him.

Lisa was stunned. She put on her heels, ran out of the room as fast as she could.

Augustus looked at her back and smiled.

When she was out of his sight. He shouted, “Lester, I want all the information about Lisa Mathew before I go to bed.”

Lester came out from the corner and said, “Yes boss.”

By the time Lisa reached her home, she was exhausted. She took a quick shower and ate dinner peacefully.

After she was full, she lay down on her bed and thought about what happened today with her. This new owner is really weird. Instead of thanking, he was scolding her and even checking out her ass shamefully. Such a pervert..!

After tossing on the bed for half an hour she couldn’t sleep. And finally, she did what she always vowed to not do.

She went to her closet and took out her husband’s shirt. She used to sniff it and wrap it around her body so she could feel her husband’s presence with her.

It’s been six months, every night she sleeps like this. No matter how hard she tried she couldn’t fall asleep without hugging it.

...

Colosseum Hotel.

In the Presidential suite, Augustus was looking at a thin file. After a while, he opened it.

On the first page, there was the birth certificate of Lisa Mathew. Her wedding picture and Her family photo. Lisa, Husband, Son. Finally, there was a picture of her Facebook account: Lisa Mathew.

He switched on his laptop and searched for her. He found her and clicked on her profile.

There was a beautiful picture on the desktop in black and white. He scrolled through her photos and saw her picture with her husband. There was a spark in her eyes, and her smile was so wide.

Today the Lisa he met and the Lisa in the picture both looked like two different people. He somehow got heartache by thinking this.

She was married when she was sixteen. She had a son at the age of 17 and became a widow at the age of 23. So young and facing so many hardships. He felt pity for her.

Then, he saw her videos of singing cover songs and playing guitar. Her voice was so mesmerizing.

He heard her songs and felt she is a multitalented woman. Her last post was in April, with the caption of a song named “Rewrite The Stars”# “Loved to sing this song but couldn’t find a partner. I wish I could sing this one day wholeheartedly.” With heart and sad face emojis.

“Hmmm.. Rewrite the stars.” He said while tapping his chin.

...

The next day, Lisa woke up and went jogging as usual at the Villa Ada Park. Augustus was already sipping his coffee when she entered. And as usual, she started jogging ignoring people around her.

Sipping coffee in his tracksuit, with the shine of sun on him. He looked like a divine creature. Every woman was attracted to him but the one he always wanted to see him. She ignored him so easily.

Last night, when he saw her husband. He didn’t have any good physique or sharp face like him. He was just an ordinary man and yet she looked at him so affectionately. And as for him, she didn’t even have a proper look at him.

Maybe she is blind, or she is a soullover. A person who doesn’t pay attention to their looks but their behavior towards another human being.

God..! It’s going to be tough for me. A soullover seriously..? Augustus sighed lightly.

...

Colosseum Hotel.

When Lisa entered the lobby, she didn’t see anybody from the old staff.

In just one night, the whole staff had been fired and new staff had been hired. When she was in a daze, there was a gentle tap on her shoulder. She turned around and saw a beautiful young lady with sharp features, black shoulderlength hair neatly braided behind. Asked gently, “Are you Miss Lisa Mathew from old staff.?”

“Yes,” she replied.

“Hello, I am Anna from The Pacific Hotel.” She said, extending her hand to shake. Lisa took it with a smile on her face. “Nice to see you, Anna.”

“We all have been ordered to shift here to work. I am the new receptionist now.” Anna explained.

“What.?” Lisa exclaimed.

Just when Lisa was confused, the phone rang. Anna answered the phone.

Lisa kept staring at her blankly. If she is the new receptionist then what about her.? I can’t lose this job please God have mercy on me. She prayed silently.

Anna hung up and informed her, “Miss Lisa, President has called you in his suite.”

She nodded and headed to the elevator. All the time she was just thinking about what he’s going to say.? Is he going to fire her too.?

She took a deep breath and knocked at the door. The door was opened by Lester. He greeted Lisa politely and he was wearing his same black suit. Lisa greeted him back.

After that, Lisa entered the living room and greeted Augustus in the most mannered way. “Good Morning, Mr. Augustus Carlos.”

Augustus was looking at the window glass. He turned around and greeted her, “Good Morning, Lisa.”

Today he is wearing a silvercolored suit, he looked extremely gorgeous but Lisa as usual didn’t look at him instead she was looking down at her hands.

Augustus' mood instantly changed. From happy to being irritated by this stupid woman. However, he remained calm and asked, “Have you met the new staff.?”

“No, Not yet. Except for Anna.” She answered.

“Okay, I want you to meet all the staff and start supervising them as soon as you can,” Augustus said in a commanding tone.

“Supervising.? Me.?” Lisa asked confusingly.

“Yes. You..! I am making you the new manager of this hotel. I am turning this hotel into a 7star hotel. It will take quite some time. By that time, you will learn and experience everything as a Manager.” Augustus explained.

“Me? Manager? Is this reward for what happened yesterday?” Lisa asked straightly.

“Well, kind of as you say,” August replied coldly.

“Errr...” Lisa was hesitating to say something.

Augustus was annoyed seeing her hesitating and said, “What? Speak.!”

“Can’t you bring old staff back.? They have been working for more than five years. Don’t you think it’s unfair.?” Lisa spoke after thinking for a while.

“What.? Did you just call me unfair.?” August said loudly.

“No..No. I don’t dare to.” Lisa immediately explained.

“I didn’t call you here to negotiate. I have offered you a job if you want it. Fine. If you don’t then please Get Out. Don’t waste my time.” He said angrily.

“I needed the job. Mr. Augustus.” Lisa said in a low voice.

“Good. Go back and start it from today.” Augustus ordered.

“Okay,” Lisa nodded and turned to leave.

Just as she was going to leave. Augustus sneered and said sarcastically, “Lisa, didn’t someone teach you manners to thank your Boss.?”

Lisa froze and turned around. “Thank you, Boss,” she said while faking a smile and clenching her fist.

Augustus looked at her and said coldly. “Good girl. Next time I won’t ask, remember.”

There was a strict warning in his tone. Lisa felt chills all over her body. She nodded to him and left hurriedly.

Augustus felt proud. At last, he has scared her. Good, she shouldn’t be using her sharp mouth in front of me, If I scared her a little. He thought, stretched his arms, and relaxed in his chair.

Just then his mobile phone rang showing the word “Mom”

Augustus looked at the screen and there was displeasure on his face. Still, he picked the phone and answered, “Yes Mom.”

“Where are you? Why didn’t you go home for the last two days? I told you to sign the deal and leave it. Why have you not left yet?”

The voice from the other end of the phone was anxious and furiously sharp. It was his mother Rheena Carlos, She is a strong and powerful woman, who never needed support from a man.

But as usual, she has some own sexual desires. Her husband was older than her so gradually after some time, she started dating some beautiful handsome man behind her husband’s back.

Her one serious relationship was with her husband’s first cousin Monte Carlos. He was a young, charming bachelor.

One day, her husband caught her with him in bed. He couldn’t take it and passed away.

Augustus, who was deeply in love with his father, couldn't take his sudden death and felt sick. After months of treatment, he finally recovered. But his heart was filled with hatred for his mother and Monte Carlos.

Rheena Carlos took over everything very gracefully and kept working hard to establish her hotel business stronger. But no matter how strong she gets, she could never accept her son’s hatred for her.

So, one day she clarified things with her son. His one and only demand were to not Remarry with anyone in the future. He hated it if he thinks someone else as his father.

Her mother agreed with a heavy heart. But she is a businesswoman and she always thinks of her benefit too. As usual, she accepted his condition and put one of her conditions.

Her condition was for him to marry her sister’s daughter Giovanna in the future. He agreed.

At the age of 22, when he decided to take over the hotel business, His mother made him sign an agreement. According to this, His mother got 52% shares and he got 48%.

In any case, if he didn’t marry Giovanna. He had to quit those shares and transfer them to Giovanna. In short, if he backed out from this deal. He wouldn’t be left with a single penny in the future.

Since that day, he had signed an agreement. He got engaged to Giovanna. He tried but he never got attracted towards her.

Meanwhile, he started taking antistress pills and had slept with half of the women of Rome, Italy.

Until one day, he saw Lisa Brown in that park. And he felt something warm in his heart and she worked as an antidote for him.

Every morning, he used to see her and all his stress immediately went away. In the last 3 months, he hadn’t swallowed a single pill, and these last two days he has been smiling which is making Lester worry to think if his Boss is in his senses these days?

“Mom, I have been thinking of upgrading this hotel,” Augustus replied calmly.

“What?” She frowned.

“I’ll send you all the details later. I got to go.” Augustus hung the call before she could react.

Two days before, His mother had sent him to sign the deal and left. After that, she was planning to Rebuilt this hotel into an Agrade restaurant. But now, her son wants to upgrade it. It’s the first time he has made his own decision.

Before taking any decision he always asked for her advice but this time he didn’t bother to mention it to her. Rheena Carlos is a cunning woman, she can sense something has changed. What is going on?

...

At lunchtime, Lisa and Anna went together for lunch. Anna praised Lisa for helping the President yesterday. While Lisa rolled her eyes without showing any interest to talk about the President.

Lisa was really grateful that she got the Manager post but at the same time, she was worried. She has to be very careful because she’s totally inexperienced. She just kept thinking about her son Simon, once she got settled and got her son’s custody. She will be able to live in peace.

No matter how weird Mr. Augustus is, but this time truly he has become an angel for me. I would never disappoint him, Lisa thought to herself.

Anna nudged her arm and asked, “What are you thinking? Are you thinking of giving the new staff a treat?” She asked with a mocking smile.

Lisa smiled and said, “Today is my first day and you’re asking for a treat. At least wait for my first paycheque. What if I get kicked out of my job before a month.?”

“What? You must be joking.. our President has picked you as our Manager. He won’t kick you out easily.” Anna said teasingly and laughed. “What if you become his girlfriend?” She said excitedly.

Lisa was shocked at her words and said, “I would love to strike myself by lightning rather than be his girlfriend.”

“What? You’re not serious right?” Anna gasped.

“Yes. I am very serious.” She folded her hands over her chest and said in a serious tone.

“What? Are you?”

Before Anna could react, These words came from behind them. Both Anna and Lisa turned around and were stunned to see Augustus standing behind.

His expressions were very ugly and his eyes were bloody red. He clenched his hands into fists and turned around without waiting for her reply. Lester followed behind.

Lisa looked at his back nervously and she felt she should explain to him her perspective before it gets ugly. After all, this job is the last hope to get her son’s custody.

She ran after him. He left the hotel and got into his car, while Lester held the door for him. Just when he was closing the door someone held his arm strongly.

“Miss Lisa,” Lester said shyly.

“I need to explain what happened now to Mr. Augustus,” Lisa said while catching her breath.

Lester looked at her, then her hand holding his arm, and then inside the car the death glare of Augustus on his arm. He immediately shook his hand out of her grip. She also realized it was not appropriate so she stepped back.

Lester opened the car door. Augustus didn’t come out and said coldly, “Speak.”

“Mr. Augustus what I said just now It didn’t mean to hurt you.?” Lisa said carefully.

“Well, why do you think I’m hurt? Who are you to me? Huh..?” Augustus sneered.

“That’s right. I am nobody compares to you.” She said politely.

“Really.? You think that much low of yourself. Then how can you be able to fulfill your duty as Manager? If you think so lowly of yourself?” August said displeasingly.

“No... I didn’t mean like this actually...” Lisa tried to explain but hesitated.

“Speak fast. I’m getting late.” Augustus said annoyingly.

Lisa took a deep breath, closed her eyes, and said, “I’m a widow, Mr. Augustus. A bachelor like you don’t deserve a widow like me as your girlfriend.”

After that Lisa turned around, embarrassed by her confession. It’s her fate that her husband died, but in people’s eyes, it’s a curse for women. She has not told anyone at Hotel about her husband’s sudden death because She doesn’t want people to gossip about her. But she didn’t know why today she confessed it in front of Augustus... Why?

...

In the Car

“Bachelor.?” Augustus chuckled.

Lester was driving the car and he didn’t dare to look at his Boss.

“Lester, if I see you again touching her. I swear I will cut your hands.” Augustus warned him.

Lester held the steering wheel tightly, his knuckles turned white and his face turned pale of fear. He nodded to his boss, eyes fixing on the road.

No matter what he did. His Boss always got angry with him. If he’s being a gentleman what’s wrong with it.? According to him, this woman has become very important for Boss.

One second he was so angry and just now he is humming a song. Should I take him to the hospital? Thought Lester scratching his forehead.

After nearly three hours of driving. Lester finally stopped the car in front of a villa in the center of the city. This villa was not very big, but the wall was very high, about the height of the Second floor.

They could only see the black bricks, green tiles, and a vermilion door outside. People could see nothing from outside, except a large sycamore tree stretched out of the wall.

Moreover, there was a security spot less than 50 meters away from the villa. There was a house, a police car. And a soldier guarding outside.

Lester went forward and rang the doorbell. Soon, a young nanny in her twenties opened the door.

When she saw Lester and Augustus, she immediately opened the door respectfully and greeted them.

Augustus asked Lester to bring the documents from the car and went inside.

Walking into the villa, there was a big hallway. The style of the hallway was Italian, and even the shoe rack was made of precious mahogany. You could also tell that the vase on the cabinet in the hallway was an antique.

After changing the shoes, Augustus entered the living room. The furniture in the living room was all made of precious mahogany, ponderous, and solemn. Under the decorations of porcelain, jade, calligraphy, and painting. It seemed like the mansion of a royal family.

On the lounge chair sat a middleaged woman in glamorous clothes. She was well maintained, her skin was tender and white, her eyebrows were thin and curved, her makeup was a little heavy, probably in order to hide some tiny lines on her face. Her eyes were sharp and fierce.

Rheena Carlos looked at Augustus and sneered, “You’re late..!”

“There was traffic on the road,” Augustus said while sitting on the sofa.

Rheena looked at him sharply and then pointed at the nanny to serve him tea and cakes.

Augustus took a piece of cake and started eating. Since he was a kid, he has loved eating cakes, especially chocolate ones. He ate with his hands and made his face dirty like a small kid.

His mother’s sharp eyes soften instantly by looking at the way he is devouring the cake. She took out the tissue and wiped his face neatly.

“You’re still acting like a child, Augustus.” She sighed while smiling at him.

“I love cakes, Mom.” He said grumpily.

She sat back on her chair and asked, “So, what’s going on? Why did you suddenly decide to upgrade the Colosseum Hotel?”

Augustus sat straight and said in a business tone, “Well, the location of that hotel is good for tourism, besides I am thinking of changing its name to “The Grand Hotel Of Carlos”. I have already contacted the designer teams for the sketches of the new model and also contacted the construction team to start the work as soon as possible.”

“But that building is not enough for this project. You need more space to make it Grand.” Rheena Carlos said from her point of view.

“I know, I am already in talks with other builders. They have agreed to sell their buildings to me. After that, I am thinking of joining all three buildings in one, a pedestrian walking space that connected three of them together and also made an underground parking area. I am also building up my office there. From now on, I will work from “The Grand Hotel Of Carlos.” So what do you say, Mom? Any advice?”

He told her his plan confidently.

“Huh... Advice.?? Since when did you decide to plan the project without my approval.?” She asked bitterly, raising an eyebrow.

It’s been 10 years since Augustus joined the hotel business. In those last years, he had never planned anything before asking her approval and now he is sitting here with a fully planned project for his new office. It’s a bit unrealistic for her to believe.

Just when she was waiting for him to explain Lester knocked and put a file on the table. Then turned around, greeted her, and left without saying a word.

Augustus calmly said, “Mom, these are the documents of approval to sign. I have already made it. If you want to read it and change something please let me know. I want this project to start as soon as possible.”

“Why are you so eager.?” She couldn’t help but ask him.

“I am 32 Mom. Give me some freedom to make my own decision.” Augustus said annoyingly.

“Giovanna wants to meet you.”  Rheena Carlos said changing the topic.

“Any special reason?” Augustus asked sarcastically.

“Your fiancé doesn’t need to find reasons to meet you.” She replied straightly.

“Well, I am very busy on this project right now. Until we start work I don’t think I will be able to spend some time with her.” Augustus said this intentionally so his mom couldn’t avoid signing the approval papers today.

After thinking for a while, Rheena thought this project is indeed well planned by him and it’s his first own project so why not let him give it a chance.

“Ok then, I will sign it right now and you will go to dinner with her tonight.” She offered him.

“Done.!” Augustus agreed happily.

After that Rheena Carlos signed the documents without reading them and Augustus took the file. He bid goodbye to his mother and left.

...

In The Car

Lester asked, “Where are we heading, boss?”

Augustus thought for a moment and then replied, “Let’s go home and ahh.. invite Giovanna to have dinner with me at my place.”

Lester nodded. “Okay, Boss.” Both sat in silence until they reached their destination.

...

The next day, As per ritual Lisa and Augustus came to the park. Lisa jogged while Augustus followed her and watched her.

Just as Lisa entered the hotel, Anna greeted her and told her, “Ma’am Lisa, President has arranged a board meeting today. As you are New General Manager you’re invited to attend it.”

Lisa nodded and asked the time of the meeting.

“ eleven o'clock,” Anna replied.

Lisa looked at the watch on her wrist, there is still one hour left in the meeting.

...

At 10:55 Lisa entered the meeting hall and was surprised to see too many people in there. Everybody was talking just as she entered. Everyone looked at her in unison. She got nervous after all she doesn’t know anyone here. She was a stranger and an inexperienced employee. She smiled and lowered her head nervously.

Just then a handsome man approached her stretching his strong arm to her. “Hi, Cristian Silas.” He said with a bright and charming smile.

Lisa looked up at him, the man was wearing a navy blue shirt with matching pants and a tie. His sleeves have rolled up and she can see his vein popping out on his arms. Lisa shook her hand with him. “Lisa Mathew”

While shaking his hand the door of the hall suddenly wide opened by Lester and Augustus walked in accompanied by a woman who was holding some thick files.

Lisa looked at Augustus and then the woman behind. Augustus looked at her, then the man beside her, and then Finally their locked hands. Lisa felt nervous and retreated her hand immediately.

Everyone stood and greeted him. “Good Morning President.”

He greeted back, “Good Morning everyone.” He went to the center of the table and said “Everybody, have a seat.”

Then he sat on his chair and everyone followed.

Lisa was looking where to sit just then Cristian gestured her to sit beside him. She felt warm by his gesture and sat beside him.

Just then, she looked at the man in the center. He was wearing a black suit today and so was she, what a coincidence.!

Today, he was wearing goldrimmed glasses and he looked very serious and focused. Just as she was studying him he looked up and met her gaze. She felt panicked and lowered her head but her face became instantly red by being caught.

Augustus cleared his throat and said, “Ladies and Gentlemen. The reason for today's meeting is to inform you all about new plans for this hotel. We are upgrading this hotel and my friend Miss Bella Mario is going to design this hotel.” He gestured at his right hand and a cute, tiny woman with red hair stood from the chair greeting everyone politely.

Then Augustus said, “And I want you all to meet our New General Manager, Miss Lisa Mathew.” He pointed at her. She nodded at everyone politely.

“This project is going to be called “The Grand Hotel Of Carlos ``. I hope everyone here works hard and makes it grand for real. Now, we should discuss it briefly..”

For the whole two hours, they all were busy discussing ideas. Cristian kept turning around to look at Lisa whenever he suggested something. Lisa feels he’s trying to make her comfortable as she is new to all of this.

It was lunch hour already when the meeting finished. Everyone was heading out. Lisa also took this opportunity and tried to sneak out. However, when she was heading towards the door. A voice called out her name.

She turned around and saw Lester approaching her. “Miss Lisa. There is something the Boss needs to talk about.”

Lisa nodded and stood at the corner waiting for people to go out. Lester stands beside her, maintaining his distance and keeping his hands folded behind. He kept saying in his mind “No Physical Touch, No Physical Touch.”

Augustus was busy in discussion with Bella. The way they both were talking, they looked very close and Bella kept touching his shoulder and squeezing his palms sometimes. He didn’t mind at all.

By seeing this cheerful sight of them, Lisa felt a bit uncomfortable.

Lester saw her being uncomfortable. To cheer her up he said in a low voice, “Nice suit, Miss Lisa.”

Lisa looked down at herself and replied shyly, “Thanks, Lester. By the way, we both are wearing the same color. Looks like we are going to hunt someone.”

“Hunt someone?” Lester asked confusingly.

Lisa said in a manly voice, “James Bond” making her hand in a gun and pointing at Lester.

Lester was stunned by her action and then both laughed loudly. At that moment, the voice of something breaking came.

Bang..!

Both turned and looked at the glass on the ground shattered into pieces and looked up at Augustus.

“Oops..! It slipped.” Augustus said innocently.

At that moment, Lisa hurriedly walked over to him. The creaking sound of her sandals stepping onto the glass pieces could be heard in the hall.

“Are you fine.?” Lisa asked while approaching him.

Augustus thought of something and yelled in pain. “Ouch.. my hand hurts.”

Lisa took his hand immediately and checked if there was any cut. Then she asked in concern. “There is no cut. Did your veins get stretched? Where does it hurt? Tell me?” She rubbed his hand.

Augustus pointed at his fingers indicating the pain. Lisa gently massaged his hand to lose the veins.

Augustus was greatly shocked by her actions today. He looked down at her with deep eyes. Her long eyelashes were covering her eyes, her facial features were really beautiful. He was mesmerized by her concern.

Although, he was annoyed by her just now and threw the glass on the floor intentionally. But when he saw her walk through shattered glass with worry on her face.

He felt happy in his heart and pretended to be innocent and injured.

After massaging for a few minutes, Lisa realized she had come really close to this man just now without thinking. She looked up and met his deep gaze on her.

She asked embarrassedly “Still hurting?”

He shook his head. Lisa released his hand and took a step back. “I’ll go and bring ice for you.”

“No need,” Augustus replied instantly, looking at his hand. He then asked, “What were you both laughing at.?”

Before Lisa could reply Lester said first, “Miss Lisa and Boss are wearing the same color today.”

Lisa stared at Lester. Lester smiled apologetically at her.

“Why did she point at you then.?” Augustus asked confusingly, tapping at the table.

“Oh, Well.. Miss Lisa thinks you look like James Bond.” Lester said cheerfully.

“Hmmm... James Bond.” Augustus' lips slightly curved when hearing this.

Lisa’s face flushed red from embarrassment by hearing these words.

The next moment, Augustus approached her and held her waist tightly, and asked Lester, “How do we look together? Didn’t we look like a great couple.?”

“Indeed Boss,” Lester replied honestly.

Lisa felt his grip on her body. There was a sudden feeling of warmth in her heart. She couldn’t push him at all but she felt a little annoyed if his hand was injured. How could he hold her so tightly? She realized she was tricked by him, and she stared at him angrily.

Augustus ignored her stare and asked Lester to click their picture. “Come on Lisa, smile, it's just a picture.” He said to her,

Lester clicked their picture and showed it to his Boss. Augustus looked at the mobile and showed it to Lisa, “See, we both look great together.” He said proudly.

Lisa shrugged in his hold and he released her quickly. Lisa calmed herself and said instantly, “Mr. Augustus I told you yesterday ...”

Before she could complete her sentence. He cut her off and said, “I know you are a widow, so what? Who cares? It’s not a crime to be a widow. No one can control its own fate. You are free to do anything until you truly want to. So stop pretending that your hands are tied.”

Lisa looked at him in disbelief. Just then he took out his card and gave it to her. “This is my personal number. I won’t be able to visit here daily as I have other projects too.  If you need me you are free to call me anytime until you want to, Lisa.” He looked deeply at her and left.

Lisa was dumbfounded and kept looking at his name on the card. “Augustus Carlos.”

Lisa came back to her office and asked the cleaner to clean the glass in the hall. For the whole day, she couldn’t focus on her work and kept thinking about Augustus' words. Maybe he is right, it’s not a crime if I’m a widow. It’s just in my destiny to be like this.

What happened yesterday, she felt very guilty and after thinking for a long time, she had decided that she would try her best behavior with Mr. Augustus. And will never offend him in the future. That’s the reason why she was so concerned about him just now and also massaged his hand to relieve the pain.

But again, she has been tricked by him. She sighed frustratingly, leaning on her chair, eyes closed.

There was a knock on the door, she said “Come in” while keeping her eyes closed.

“Hey ., you’re not allowed to sleep in your office.” A voice came in a teasing tone.

She opened her eyes and sat straight up, maintaining her calm posture. “I was just resting my eyes,” she explained.

“Gotcha.! I scared you. Didn’t I?” Cristian said, smiling wickedly.

Lisa rolled her eyes and asked calmly. “What are you doing in my office.?”

“I came here for some work and saw nobody was there at the reception desk. I thought I should inform you. You know, if someone complains it would be a great problem for you to handle. As your new Manager.” He explained.

“Oh.. in that case. I’ll go and see what’s the matter. Thank you for informing me.” She said embarrassedly and left the office.

When she reaches the desk. As expected, there was no one. She frowned, looked left and right but Anna was nowhere to be seen. She stands behind the desk looking around. Just then, the main door opened and a lady entered with a strong scent of perfume all over her body. Lisa frowned and looked at the woman.

“Where is Augustus? Tell him Giovanna is here to meet him.” She said in a commanding tone.

Lisa felt some negative vibes from that woman. She nodded and called the Presidential Suite. Ring ... Ring ... Ring .. nobody answered. She tried again, no response.

She looked at the woman in front of her and said apologetically, “No one is picking up the call at the Presidential Suite.”

The woman got angry and asked irritatedly, “Give me his room card.”

Lisa said nervously, “Sorry Ma’am I cannot give you a room card without identifying you.”

“What do you mean.?” She asked through clenched teeth.

“What is your relation.?” Lisa asked hesitantly.

“I am his fiancé.” The woman held her chin high and answered arrogantly.

Fiancé? What? Is Mr. Augustus engaged? I have never seen him wearing a ring and if she is his fiancé why she didn’t know where he is right now? Lisa’s mind was in a mess. She looked at her with suspicious eyes.

The woman cleared her throat and sneered, “What now.? Give me the card or I will talk to your Manager.”

Lisa smiled and said, “I am the Manager, ma’am.”

The woman was stunned and looked at her in displeasure. “Look at me..! Why do you think I lie.? I can show you my I’d if you want to check.” She offered.

Lisa looked at the woman carefully. She was very beautiful and could be described as an eyecatching beauty. She had an oval face, straight eyebrows, a straight nose, smallmouth, and white skin. She had slightly curly short hair, delicate makeup, and a black and white sleeveless suit which looked very decent. She was simply an exceptionally gorgeous woman.

Lisa truly believed her but still, she had to inform Mr. Augustus about it. What if he gets angry and fires her.? She can’t offend him.

After thinking for a while, Lisa said politely, “Ma’am just a moment please.” She went back to her office, picked up her phone, and dialed Augustus’s number she had saved after coming back from the meeting.

Ring ... Ring ... Ring ...

Nobody picked it. She went back with her phone and her phone rang. She looked down and it was Augustus. She answered. “Hello, Mr. Augustus.”

“Lisa, what’s the matter?” He asked in a deep and low voice.

“There's a woman saying she is your fiancé and asking for your room card. Her name is Giovanna.” She told him.

Augustus asked confusingly. “So?”

“So, I don’t know if she is telling the truth. Should I give her your card.? I need to identify.” She asked

Augustus was stunned for a moment and he thought to himself. This woman is really interested, she didn’t know anything, that's why she called me bachelor yesterday. Such a fool.

While Augustus was lost in his thoughts. Lisa called him, “Mr. Augustus.. Are you there.?”

“Hmm..” he replied.

“What should I do.?” She asked anxiously.

Just then Giovanna snatched her phone and said angrily, “Augustus where are you? Why you’re not answering my calls.?”

“Giovanna I am busy.” He said straightly.

“This... Your useless Manager is not handing me the key card. Fired her right now.” She demanded.

“Giovanna.! She was doing her job. I am busy and I won't be able to meet you when I'm free. I'll let you know.” He knew she wouldn't go easily and added, “By the way, don’t try to make a fuss or force her for a room card. You know she is a psychopath. What if she breaks your leg in order to stop you from going in. How would it be like to live with a broken leg..?”

Giovanna looked at her legs and then the lady opposite her. She felt a sense of fear and didn’t say anything. Augustus smiled wickedly. He knew he succeeded so he said in a concerned tone, “You go back and take care of yourself. No need to argue with her, I won't be able to see you with a broken leg.”

Giovanna said panicked. “Okay” handed her the phone. She turned around and ran away like she had seen a ghost.

Lisa looked at her back wondering what happened. Then she looked at her phone and saw that the call was still connected.

Lisa put the phone near her ear and said, “She’s gone.”

Augustus answered. “I know”

Both felt silent after that. The only heavy breathing of them can be heard by phone.

“Lisa” Augustus called her name after a while.

“Yes,” she replied.

“I’m glad you called me,” Augustus said that sentence and hung up the call.

She looked at her mobile absently for a while. Just then Anna came back to her desk. Upon seeing Lisa, she said hurriedly, “My mother called ... I forgot to give her my brother’s prescription so she called asking for it. I am sorry it was urgent. It won’t happen again. Please don’t deduct my salary.” She said in a pleading tone with watery eyes.

Lisa glanced at her and said in a straight tone, “it should never happen again.” She then took her bag and left the hotel.

...

At home, Lisa felt very restless in her heart. Somehow she had started getting attracted to Augustus. After tossing and turning for a while, Lisa switched on her laptop and searched for Augustus Carlos.

A picture of Augustus Carlos appeared on the screen. He was wearing a black cashmere coat. His light brown hair was neatly styled. His blue eyes were deep and cold. His features were really sharp.

Augustus Carlos is the only son of Rheena Carlos and Alberto Carlos. His father, Alberto Carlos is the one who started this hotel business. He owns a chain of five luxury hotels, which are situated in palazzos in Italy’s main cities: (Milan, Venice, Florence, Punta Ala, and Rome)

However, when he died, his wife took over the business. At the age of 22, Augustus took his place in business and got engaged to her cousin, Giovanna. After that, Augustus built 4 more hotels, two in France, one in London, and one in the Maldives.

The Grand Carlos Hotels were elected during the World Travel Awards as Italy’s leading hotel and nominated in the Travel+Leisure 500. Recently, The Grand Hotel Carlos won second place in the Luxury24.

After strolling down, she finally saw the picture she was looking for. A young man wearing a tuxedo looked calm and noble, beside him was a beautiful and elegant young girl, smiling shyly. She was wearing an offshoulder peach color gown looking like a royal princess. They both looked like a perfect match.

The more she looked at the picture, the more she felt distressed. She closed her laptop annoyingly. She knew she wasn't any match for him but still she felt a bit jealous looking at him with another woman. She shook her head to remove his memory and tried to sleep.

...

The next day, she worked at the hotel peacefully. She didn’t see Augustus all day nor did he call.

On Saturday, she was extremely excited to meet her son, Simon. The whole week she looked up to this one day to finally meet her son.

After breakfast, she took a taxi and went straight to St. Stephen School. She never wanted to send her son to boarding school. But after her husband died, her brotherinlaw, Ted Smith started forcing her to marry him. And slowly, things turned to get ugly. She didn’t want her son to see this ugly side of his uncle. So one night, after thinking for a long time with a heavy heart, she made a decision to send him to boarding school for time being.

Her son, Simon is very understanding and an obedient son. When Lisa told him her decision, he agreed obediently and didn’t make any fuss. Lisa felt relieved after sending him away from this dirt.

After some time, when things gradually started to settle down Lisa went straight to take back her son but to her surprise, she found out that She is not his son’s legal guardian anymore. She felt frustrated and tried to take her son back but The Warden refused her strictly. She felt defeated and went back to her home disappointedly.

Soon after, she found out that Ted was behind all of this in order to force her to marry him. Or otherwise, she had to fight legally in court against him to win his son’s custody. Ted knew her financial status very well. She couldn’t afford to hire a lawyer, winning the case it’s just a dream for her.

But Lisa was stubborn. She still refused to marry him and go for a legal fight. Ted was really pissed by her decision. The more she rejected him, the more he wanted to conquer her. After that, Ted kept pestering her, but she kept turning him down.

It was a bright sunny day. The taxi driver pulled the car over at the gate of St. Stephen School. For the last six months, every Saturday Lisa came here to meet her son.

As soon as she entered, a guard greeted her, some Teachers also greeted her while walking past her. She entered the Hostel Building and greeted the Warden. “Hello, Linda Madam.”

“Hello, Miss Lisa Mathew.” The Warden replied back. The Warden was a middleaged woman with white hair and a curvy body. Her smile is always warm and gentle.

“Can you call Simon?” Lisa requested politely.

“Of course. I’ll go and bring him myself. Just wait a moment.” The Warden excused herself and went up through the stairs.

As this is a highprofile hostel. The rooms in it are furnished, quite spacious. Each has internet access. In common use, there is a laundry, a lounge, and a kitchen. The hostel is guarded around the clock. To promptly solve the organization and everyday issues that students face in the building, there are curators.

Meals in the hostel are organized according to the boarding principles. The cafeteria serves mainly Italian dishes. Sports infrastructure includes a gym, volleyball, basketball courts, and a tennis court. The St. Stephen School also leases halls and fields in several major sports centers in Rome, Italy.

While looking around, Lisa heard the footsteps rushing towards her. Lisa turned around and saw her son Simon rushing towards her with a smile on his face. While the Warden is worried and keeps telling him to slow down and watch his steps on stairs.

Lisa crouched down and hugged her son tightly. “Mommy .. I missed you.” Simon said while pouting his face.

“Mommy misses you too .. Simon,” Lisa said while touching his face.

Simon looked very much like his father, Tom Smith. He was almost carved out of the same mold as him, especially his eyes with extremely long eyelashes.

He was wearing short jeans and a red tshirt. “Mommy, I want to live with you and uncle Ted. Why don’t you accept his offer.?” Simon asked innocently.

Lisa was shocked by his words and asked, “Who told you about this offer.?”

“Uncle Ted told me, he wants me and you to live with him like a family,” Simon answered honestly.

Since Simon came here, Ted always came to visit him so he took this opportunity to use Simon to make her surrender. No matter how Ted is, he had always treated Simon as his own son and Simon also loved him too much.

“Uncle Ted already has a family. Auntie Mary, Iris, and Victoria. We are not his family. We are his brother’s family. Now that your dad is gone, we both are each other's family.” Lisa tried to explain to her son calmly and felt sad remembering her husband.

Simon felt disappointed and lowered his head. Lisa saw her son’s actions and felt pity for him in her heart. After all, he is just a child, How would he know his uncle’s evil intentions?

“You know what, I have been promoted. I am the new General Manager now. I will earn a lot of money and take you with me as soon as possible.” Lisa said this to cheer her son on.

As expected, her son looked up surprised and asked, “Really? Mommy?” Lisa nodded.

Simon's smile widened and then he said excitedly. “When I’ll go home. I will invite my friends to a party.. Yay..!” He jumped excitedly.

Lisa frowned and asked, “Did you make any friends this time.?”

Simon is a quiet child. He didn’t make any friends. It's very rare to be a friend of Simon. In the last six months, he had never mentioned any friends.

“Yes Mommy, I made 2 friends,” Simon said proudly raising his two fingers.

“Wow Simon.. that’s great. What’re their names.?” Lisa asked.

“Maria and Tony,” Simon said.

“Maria? Isn’t she a girl.?” Lisa asked confusingly.

“Yes.! She is the new monitor of our class. Some kids were trying to bully me and Tony but Maria complained about them to the principal. Her father is very rich so the principal always listens to her words.” Simon explained to her mom.

“Ohh,, it looks like she is a superrich kid wearing a cape and flying in school.” Lisa teased Simon jokingly. Simon laughed and stretched his arm and ran around her mom.

“Slow down, little fellow,” Lisa said laughingly.

“What about your other friend.?” Lisa sat on the bench and pulled Simon over to sit on her lap.

“Tony helps me in the study, a lot and now he is my roommate too,” Simon said excitedly.

“Wow..! That’s good news.” Lisa raised her hand for a highfive and Simon gave her highfive gladly. She spent the whole day with Simon until it got dark. She then returned home happily and felt very light. After her husband died, Simon is the only true blessing left behind.

At the Hotel.

The construction work had already started And very few staff members were working in the hotel.

After lunchtime, someone knocked at Lisa’s office door. “Come in,” Lisa said without looking up.

The door opened and she smelled a strong scent of roses. She looked up and froze looking at the man in front of her.

The man was wearing black jeans, a shirt and a coat with a hat on his head. His figure looked different. His bulgy stomach was not there anymore. There was no chubbiness on his face either. Looked like he had joined the gym. The man was looking at her shocked face and a smile appeared on his face.

“Heard you have been promoted. Just wanted to Congratulate you.” The man said, putting the bouquet on the table and sitting on the chair in front of her.

“Thank you for your kindness, now leave,” Lisa said indifferently.

Looking at her cold attitude. The man became furious and said angrily, “It’s been a month since I saw you last time. Why are you so cold to me? I have joined a gym to work on my body so that you can get attracted to me but you.. you didn’t say anything at all. Can’t you see my efforts for you? Am I that bad? Huh..?”

Lisa frowned and said calmly, "Ted it's not like that. You are a good person I don't know but I just can't get attracted to you. I and Tom have always treated you like our child. How could I be able to think of you that way and besides what about Mary, huh..? Think about your wife and daughters..."

"First of all, I am older than you. So, how could you still think of me as a child? Second, I have already talked to Mary, she has no problem with our marriage." Ted said in a serious tone.

"Whatever you say. I am never going to marry you. Forget about it." Lisa sneered, her hands folded on her chest.

Ted saw her strong appearance and knew that she is doing this because she has promoted to, Silly woman. No matter How much money she earns, she is never going to win against his power. Ted stood up and said arrogantly, "Don't think by being a Manager you can win your son's custody. You can't win against me. Lisa."

"Let the judge decide it, Ted." With that saying, Lisa stood up and opened the door for Ted to leave. Just when Ted was walking out Lisa called him and said, "And uh... next time don't use my son to force me. It would be better if you keep him away from this."

Ted looked at her up and down with a deep gaze and said, "You're beautiful Lisa. I will wait for you to accept my offer." And then he left.

Lisa rolled her eyes and closed the door. She thought to herself. How did he know about my promotion? Then only one person came to her mind "Simon”

I really need an assistant manager to inform me before people's arrival in my office. With that thought, she picked up the telephone and called the HR Department. Soon a lady answered the call, "Hello HR Department."

"Hello, Mia..! It's me Lisa Mathew, General Manager. Can you please ask Emma to give an advertisement for the assistant manager's post?" Lisa said.

“Okay, Ms. Mathew," Mia replied politely.

"Thank you, Mia, that's all."

"Have a good day then."

"You too."

Before Lisa left the hotel she handed the big bouquet of roses to Anna. Anna asked surprisingly, "Who sent you this?"

Lisa didn't want anyone to misunderstand her relationship with Ted so she lied, "It was sent by my dad."

Anna frowned and said disappointedly, "I thought, it's your boyfriend."

Lisa rolled her eyes and said while walking out "You think too much."

"Thanks by the way", Anna said from behind.

Anna put the bouquet on the front desk. After a while, Augustus came out of the elevator, Lester following him behind. Augustus saw the big red roses bouquet and stopped in front of the desk.

"Who put this bouquet here?" He asked angrily.

Anna looked up frightened and explained, "It was sent to Miss Lisa from her father."

Augustus frowned looking at the bouquet and left without saying anything.

...

The next day, as Lisa came to the office. Someone was already waiting for her inside the office. She looked at the figure sitting on the chair and asked surprisingly. "Am I in the wrong office?"

The man turned around and looked at Lisa. "Umm... No, you're not." He replied standing up embarrassingly.

Lisa looked at his embarrassed look and said, "Gotcha..!" Both then chuckled together. Lisa sat in her seat and asked, "So, what's the matter? Why are you here Cristian.?"

Cristian looked tense and kept rubbing his fingers, "Well, I need a favor." He finally said those words.

"Okay. Go on" Lisa said.

"One friend of mine needed a job. I heard you're looking for an Assistant Manager. Umm... So .. actually .." he hesitated and ran his fingers into his hair.

"So you want me to hire her. Right?" Lisa saw his hesitation and interrupted him.

"Yup,, yes like if you feel like you know after interviewing her. It's totally up to you. I am just suggesting her as a friend." He explained.

"Okay then." Lisa smiled and said.

"Okay. Really? Huh.... Well, she is outside. Should I send her now?" Cristian asked surprisingly.

Lisa nodded. Cristian got up happily and went outside. After a while, there was a knock on the door. Lisa said, "come in"

A beautiful young lady entered the office, greeting her politely. After interviewing her for 20 minutes, Lisa got satisfied and hired her immediately.

After sending her, Lisa felt relieved and again felt grateful to Cristian. Hence she is new here, only Cristian had treated her nicely just like a friend. She didn't make any friends before except Sasha but now she feels she can count Cristian as a friend, too. Well, now she and her son both have two friends. What a coincidence.!

At this thought, she remembered the day she spent with her son and laughed wholeheartedly at his cute actions.

...

The next day, Lisa was jogging at the park. Just then her phone rang. She stopped and looked at her phone and a flash of worry and panic appeared on her face.

She answered the phone with shaking hands, "Hello."

"Miss Lisa Mathew." A lady asked.

"Yes," Lisa answered.

"Your father again tried to commit suicide, we have admitted him to Holy Spirit Hospital please come immediately."

"Yes," Lisa said. Her voice was hoarse and then she fell to the ground and tears started falling down from her eyes.

Augustus was as usual, following Lisa while jogging. When she suddenly stopped and answered the call with shaking hands. He was thinking why her behavior suddenly changed by this call just then she fell on the ground holding her phone tightly.

Augustus rushed towards her and crouched down opposite her. She seemed to be numb all of a sudden, and her eyes were empty, blankly looking at her phone. There was even no sound when she cried, but only tears kept falling from her eyes.

By looking at her like this, Augustus only felt that his heart had been ripped out of his chest. He touched her shoulder and asked in a low voice, "Are you ok.?"

Lisa, who was lost, looked up and saw deep blue eyes looking at her with concern and didn't say anything. When seeing that she didn't speak, Augustus called her name. "Lisa"

When Lisa heard her name. She immediately came back to her senses and realized she needed to reach the hospital as fast as possible. She stood up and rushed towards the road to take a taxi. Augustus followed her quietly. She was not in her senses and tried to cross the road on the green light.

Augustus saw her trying to cross the road impatiently. He pulled her back and said angrily, " Are you blind? It's a green light."

Lisa looked at him, tears still falling down.

Augustus held her face and asked softly, "What's wrong? Where are you going.?"

"Holy Spirit Hospital. Take me there please." Lisa said in a trembling tone.

"Okay," Augustus replied. Then, he called Lester and within a few minutes, Lester brought him a car. Lester handed him the key and left.

Augustus then opened the door to the passenger seat and let her get in. Lisa got in the car and sat down. He bent down, pulled out the seat belt, and buckled it for her. When he got up, his face brushed gently against her pink lips.

It was as if he had touched electricity. He could only feel the heat on his face, and his heartbeat as it would jump out of his throat. However, Lisa didn't change her expressions. She was still lost in her thoughts.

Augustus closed the door and sat on the driving seat. He started the car and set GPS for Holy Spirit Hospital.

He looked at Lisa from the corner of his eyes. She was wearing track pants and a sleeveless top. He thought of something and reached at the backseat and handed Lisa his hoodie.

"Wear it. Your clothes are not appropriate for the hospital." He said while looking straight on the road.

Lisa looked down at herself and realized he's right. She took a hoodie, wore it, and said, "Thank you."

Augustus parked the car at the Emergency Gate. Lisa looked at him nervously. "You go ahead, I'll wait for you." He said calmly.

Lisa immediately refused him and said, "You go first, I am fine. Thank you once again."

After that, she opened the door and rushed to the hospital without looking back. Augustus watched her disappear and couldn't help but think about what happened.

Lisa went straight to the front desk and asked, "Is there a patient named Frank Mathew.? He shifted to this hospital from Mental Asylum an hour ago."

The receptionist looked at her computer while typing and then said, "Yes, there is one patient. He tried to cut his wrist. Wait for some time, we are shifting him to room 39'a'."

Lisa asked, "Where is it.?"

"Go straight. Take the elevator on your right to the third floor. On your left, you will find the room." The receptionist instructed her.

Lisa followed her instruction. While she was heading to the door, a male doctor came out of the room. Lisa called him from a distance. "Doctor.. Wait..!"

Lisa ran to the doctor and asked, "How is my father, Doctor.?"

Doctor frowned. He looked at her and then the patient inside the room. He gently asked her, "Are you his daughter.?" Lisa nodded. "Come inside we need to talk." The doctor said while opening the door for her.

She went inside and looked at the man lying down on the bed. The man was skinny, pale, his beard had grown, his hairs were also long, white, and messy. His left hand and left leg were tied by a handcuff to the bed. Looking at him in this condition Lisa felt very pity for her father.

"I can't believe a heart surgeon like him would ever do that." The doctor said in disbelief standing behind Lisa.

Lisa turned in shock and asked, "Do you know.?"

The doctor shrugged and said, "Of course, I know. He once came to our university for a lecture, that's where I saw him first. He was such a good man full of life. No wonder what happened to him now."

"Love is cruel." Lisa sighed looking at his father.

"Anyway, it was very hard for us to stabilize him. So we gave him an overdose. He won't regain consciousness until tomorrow." Doctor explained. Lisa thanked the doctor and sent him off.

After the doctor left, Lisa looked at her father's pale face and kissed his forehead. She then held her father's hand and sat on a chair close to the bed.

"Pappa , why did you do this pappa.? Don't you love me? Do you only love your wife? .. not your children..?" Lisa complained while sobbing. "Please pappa don't...ever...leave..me, please.. Wu...Wu...Wu.."

Frank Mathew was a wellknown surgeon of Italy. He got married to Stella Mathew after falling in love with her at his cousin's wedding. They both were the most lovely and perfect couple of that time. They had 3 kids together. Two daughters and one son.

When Lisa was 15 years old, Her father brought home his second wife named Betty. She was a nurse at the hospital. Stella Mathew couldn't believe it at all and soon after she died because of pain and grievances in her heart.

After that Frank Mathew was completely cut off from his kids. He used to give them limited money and meet them once a month. As Lisa was the eldest so she has to take care of her two younger siblings.

After she got married to Tom. He took the responsibility of her siblings happily. And Frank didn't bother at all. He was so much in love with that woman, Betty. He couldn't see anything at all.

But as people say, what you sow you shall reap. It happened to him when he got his first fit, after four years of his marriage. And got addicted to drugs thanks to Betty and his boyfriend Johnson Reed. She took away all his money and proved him to be mentally ill. Soon, he was admitted to Mental Asylum.

After looking at his condition, Frank Mathew realized he had been betrayed by love just like Stella was betrayed by him.

Now, he has regrets but it's of no use. When Lisa got this news she went to see him alone. Her other siblings denied by saying, "He deserves it"

However, Lisa cared for her father. When she first met him, he cried like a baby and asked for her forgiveness. He felt very much ashamed of himself and after some of her visits, her father asked her to not come here anymore. He won't be able to face her in the future for what he did to her and his two more kids.

Lisa kept crying until her throat got dry, she looked in the ward for water but there was no water at all. She went out to get water and saw Augustus sitting outside the ward. Lisa frowned and thought why is he still here? Didn't she tell him to Go? She also noticed that he had changed his running shorts Into an inkcolored suit. Lisa walked over to him.

Augustus saw Lisa coming over to him. He stood up and asked her in worry. "Where were you? I had been looking for you. I asked a nurse about your appearance and she told me she saw you going on the third floor but I didn't know the ward number so I waited here."

Lisa looked into his deep blue eyes and felt warmth in her heart. She felt guilty too, he helped her too much and yet she didn’t tell him the reason for coming here.

Seeing her lost again, Augustus called her out in his deep voice “Lisa”

Lisa then said hesitantly, “My father... he tried to commit suicide this morning. He has been in Mental asylum for the last three years.” She didn’t look into his eyes while speaking.

After hearing her, Augustus was shocked and then in the next moment, he pulled her into his arms and hugged her.

Since Lisa’s mother died, she has been the one taking care of everyone nobody has taken care of her or comforted her till now even Tom was always busy with his brother and his work though he was a good husband he didn’t realize that she needed care too money can buy everything but not the care or love for someone.

This sudden hug from Augustus melted Lisa’s heart. She really needed this hug at this difficult time. Forgetting everything she held him tightly, sniffing his unique scent. Her heartfelt heavy, her eyes turned red and again she started crying. This time it wasn’t because of her father but it was Augustus’s genuine concern that made her lose her senses at an instant.

Augustus felt his shirt getting wet. He didn’t mind at all, instead, he rubbed her back gently and coaxed her like she was a baby.

After some time, Lisa regained her senses and shuddered in his embrace. He understood it and let her go. He then opened a water bottle and passed it to her to drink. She took some sips and said, “Thank you.”

Augustus handed her a sandwich and a glass of fresh juice and said in a commanding tone “eat”

Lisa then realized that she had not eaten anything yet. She was extremely hungry. She took a bite of the sandwich and it tasted really good. It doesn’t look like a cafeteria sandwich. Did he go back to his home to change his clothes and bring food for me?

Lisa looked at the man beside her from the corner of her eyes. He was eating so elegantly and there was not a single sound of chewing food at all.

Augustus saw her looking at her stupidly and shook his head. Lisa got nervous and pointed at his clothes, “When did you change?”

He didn’t answer her and kept eating. Lisa felt annoyed and turned her face away from him in anger. After a while, someone tapped her shoulder. She looked up and saw Augustus was smiling at her.

“Lester brought my clothes, I changed them in the washroom outside. After all, I can’t roam in running shorts in the hospital no matter how rich I am..!” He explained calmly.

Lisa nodded her head and continued eating, ignoring him. He sensed something and then he chuckled softly. Lisa narrowed her eyes and asked, “What are you laughing at? Huh..?”

“You should never talk while eating. Don’t you know about eating etiquette.?” He asked her in a mocking way.

Lisa felt insulted and turned her face away. She finished her food and threw wrappers in the dustbin. She looked at Augustus and politely thanked him again.

“Stop it.” Augustus said irritatedly.

Lisa frowned, “What?”

“Stop saying thank you. If you want to say something else. I am all ears. Okay?” He said.

Lisa heard him and understood what he meant.. what happened before he took it as something else this is not right she had to explain to him to clear this misunderstanding.

“Mr. President, you misunderstood me. What happened before was nothing. I just got a bit emotional. Don’t mind it please.” Lisa stood up and said it in a very gentle tone and before waiting for his reply she walked towards the exit.