The Billionaire's Unfaithful Daughter

I simply exhausted my head by thinking about a variety of topics till I fell asleep. But I never expected to see my father in my nightmares. Although my mouth wouldn't open to say anything, the only thing I remembered was when he addressed me as daughter and came to ask forgiveness for all the sins he had perpetrated against me and my mother.

I only noticed I was crying when he wiped the tears from my cheek with his palm. But why wasn't I outraged when he smiled and greeted me as his daughter?

I was overjoyed to feel the warm embrace of a father who had been separated from me for a long time. I sprang awake from my trance and grimaced. I was awakened by the alarm clock on my phone, which I had hidden behind my pillow.

I became enraged and unintentionally dropped my phone on the floor. Then I heard footsteps enter my room. So my spirit awoke, and I instantly grabbed my cellphone. It's nice that it comes with a case and is free of scratches.

My mother, as expected, knocked on the door. That lady has a fantastic ear. I spilled our plastic glass the other day by accident, but Mom was in my room whining at me in less than five minutes, which is extremely typical.

I was too sluggish to walk to the door, even though it was only a few steps away from my mattress, so I yelled back at her. I'm sure she'll just inquire what that noise was.

"NOTHING! I JUST DROPPED MY CELLPHONE!"

The spirit of rest escaped my body when she yelled at me. I feel like even our neighbors heard her loud voice.

"IT'S 6:00 A.M.! Aren't you in a hurry? Isn't your office in Makati?"

I looked at my cellphone, and it was true. I opened the door, put my mother aside. I immediately ate my breakfast. I was lucky because we already had marinated chicken for breakfast and had some bread and coffee. While I was eating, she continued yelling at me, and my ears hurt so much.

"See? That's what happened when you were using your cellphone in the middle of the evening! FYI, I've been waking you up for a while now, but you're not responding, so I thought you were gone. Be thankful that I am your mother and that I am taking care of you!"

I rushed through my meal so I could get dressed and leave right away. Fortunately, my body is already awake because of my mother's irritating voice. Dang, I dressed in less than 20 minutes.

My mother complimented me on my corporate attire, which we bought at a cheap price. I didn't have time to talk to her, so I just gave her a goodbye after she gave me 10 dollars.

I was very well dressed and feeling fresh when I left the house, but as soon as I got on the motorcycle, the smoke of different vehicles got into my clothes. Not only that, my clothes crumpled on the motorcycle, and when I arrived at the building where I was working, I looked like a mess in the eyes of different people.

The comfort room in this building is actually way better than the dining area of our house. Not to mention that it was also equipped with high technology, as the toilets and sinks flushed without touching them.

After filling out my name in the lobby, I went up to the 20th floor where the office of Asia Brewery and Cocktails, my father's multibilliondollar company, is located.

As expected, there was a nice boy who assisted me. I was too shy to ask his name, so I just stole a glance at his small name tag on his body.

He walked me inside Sir Michael's office, and I gave her an appreciative grin afterwards as a way to say thank you. I didn't hear anything from his mouth, but his only response was a smile before he left me in the department of Sir Michael, who was the one who accepted me.

He gently curled his mouth into a smile and stood up. "Good morning Stella! It's nice to see you in person again!"

I was so amazed to hear his manly voice accent again.

"Thank you so much sir! I highly appreciate you for accepting me for this job. I promised to do my best!" My English is not as good as his, but I guess he understood what I just said.

Sir Michael fixed his eyes on me and went in front of me. "You should have confidence in yourself. Let me introduce you to the people you will work with!"

We went outside, and in his office, the employees of his department stood up. I feel that I am too important to interrupt them in what they are doing. Sir Michael put his arm around my shoulder and spoke in a loud voice.

"I would like you to welcome the new part of our family, Ms. Stella!"

"Welcome!" said the boy with the name tag Bryant on his uniform. His mouth pulled up with a broad smile.

I've got to admit, he is the most attractive employee I've ever seen in this building. His body is fit and has very deep dimples. I shoved away the negative thoughts in my mind and just focused on what was happening at the moment.

A very hot girl corporate attire walked by the hallway, stealing attention from me. Her hair is in an Shaggy Bob Haircut with Bangs and I can smell her perfume even though she is far away from me.

Almost all the guys in our department were thrilled and all the attention of the employees was focused on her. I exhaled an irritated sigh. I am a real lady and I got really jealous when I saw Bryant's eyes sparkled the moment he saw the girl.

The lady gazed at our department and smiled. I raised an eyebrow at her, but luckily I was only on the edge of her sight. The moment she left, I blurted out a question to Sir Michael.

"Who is she, Sir Michael?" I asked with a frown.

He gleamingly smiled and responded. "Her name is Hailey. Actually, she is the only daughter of Sir Joseph and heiress of this company. So please, once you see her anywhere, try to greet her."

My hair stood up, and my eyes widened in shock. I had no idea that my father had another daughter who I think is similar to my age. I never saw her in all the articles I read, so my mind was disturbed.

Hailey or my half sister's office is just a few steps away from our department. I'm not worried or feeling awkward with Hailey since she has no idea that she has a poor sister like me. What I want to see is my father, Joseph. I want to know if I feel comfortable with him like in my dream because I am confused.

Perhaps I was swayed by my mother's endless stories about him. This day passed, but I was disappointed. When I got home, I informed my mother that I had not seen my father. At first I was scared to tell her that but her reaction was different.

"That is fine, the important thing here is that you have entered his company. The right time will come for our plan. For now, you need to rest!" She did not realize that her smile was turning into a bitter one.

I followed my mother, I immediately entered my room and laid down. Although my earthly body is tired and wants to rest, my mind is different and it is forcing me to wake up because I didn't tell her about my half sister. I know that my mother knows my father has a family. So I am under the impression that she doesn't care about Hailey, let alone include her in our revenge plot.

Sht! Who would have thought that a handsome heartthrob like him would send a friend request to someone as ugly as me? I am just a typical nerd girl with brain to match. I'm not bragging, but I am a consistent honor in my school and probably, I inherited that intelligence from my father.

I scrolled down his profile picture and I am glad that he is a single and very familyoriented man. In fact, I only saw familyrelated posts from his timeline, which really turned me on! This is the kind of man I want to be with the rest of my life. Hot and responsible man who always prioritize his family. I was even more surprised when he chatted with me.

"HI STELLA!! HOW WAS YOUR DAY?" his all caps lock chat with two heart emojis at the end.

I'm just thrilled, especially with the heart emoji. I don't know but I seem to be giving a different interpretation to Nick's heart emoji. My dirty brain is working again! Every time I blinked my eyes I imagined hugging his warm naked body which sends chill to my body. It's embarrassing because the statue of Saint Peter is just across from my bed. Please forgive me, I am committing a sin because of my fcking brain.

I resisted the temptation and shove away the malice thoughts that keep popping into my head.

"I'm fine. Thank you very much for teaching me earlier! I learned in just a few hours!" I replied with two hearts emoji at the end of my chat. I admitted that I like him and my heart emoji is for real.

"That is good to hear. Anyway, you still have a lot to learn at work. But I have heard from Sir that you are a cum laude?"

There is no longer a heart emoji in his reply and yet the excitement I feel is still the same. Perhaps he really is the one I've been searching for to complete my life. Of course I reacted with a heart emoji to his message while smiling out of excitement.

"Yes! Actually, I just graduated last month and this company is my dream company, so I was beyond happy when I got hired!"

"Don't worry! Our department is full of energetic people, you won't feel alone with us. Anyway, I know it's late, but congratulations! If you haven't asked, I am also a cum laude in our school and not only that, the course I took was also Business Management and this is my dream company as well!" Nick's long reply.

For some reason, I thought of changing our topic as I wanted to know more about Hailey since I just met him today.

"I see... so I was just curious... I mean, is Ma'am Hailey's office just near our department?" I asked, even though I already got the answer from some of the janitors I talked to earlier.

"Yup! And she is the Vice President already! But I'd like to share something with you. Please don't screenshot this conversation so that none of us will be harmed! Hailey is not a smart person and her performance is poor. I have gathered gossip that Sir Joseph is very disappointed with her, he is the president of our company and the father father of Hailey!"

I was happy to hear the news from him. Who would have thought that this guy I am having a crush on was also updated with gossip? Now that I know a little bit about Hailey, things are getting more interesting!

"Ah, is that so? If I were Sir Joseph's child, I would make sure to do my best so my father wouldn't be humiliated by putting me in a higher position. And if I were Sir Joseph, I would have given that position to somebody else!"

"Blood is thicker than water," Nick replied quickly. "Even for us employees, we are not in favor of her as well! Sometimes she just yelled at the janitors or other maintenance. So I find it odd when she was in such a good mood earlier!"

I defended Hailey. "He looks kind though!"

"She has a good front but she is miserable! She's drop dead beauty but brainless!" Nick said bluntly, as if he had a hidden resentment towards Hailey.

"That's so mean! Why do you seem to have a personal grudge against Hailey? Do you hold a grudge against her?" I asked her in shock.

"I do... I despise how she treated her employees; her behavior is nothing like that of Sir Joseph!" he exclaimed quickly. "I despised a brat and spoiled rich kid who grew up having no compassion to those less fortunate than her!"

I'm curious if I was the only one Nick was chatting with, or if I was one of his top priorities among all of his chatmates.

"I swear, Sir Joseph is kind!" he added.

My blood ran cold even more when he mentioned Sir Joseph. It seems they have an interaction or he has a hobby of eavesdropping. "I don't want you to misinterpret this, but how did you know Sir Joseph is kind?"

"Actually, our company has many benefits for employees and it's because of Sir Joseph! Trust me, he treats all of his employees with fairness. But when I was new, the rumors circulated in the office that he used to be a womanizer!"

Despite the good things Nick told me, I know that this is contrary to my mother's hellish experience with him. If only I could tell Nick about my true identity, I would have done it! But of course, for my mother's sake, it's not really possible, especially since we've been contemplating to revenge my father for a long time.

I just put a heart emoji on his last message and went to sleep. Maybe he won't sulk at me and when I wake up I'll just reply. I put my cellphone underneath my pillow and ignored the sound indicating my new messages.

But sht! Why every time I close my eyes, I imagine Nick's charming smile at me? I wanted to get rid of him so I could sleep but I could not help but to admire him. Out of the hot many men I encountered, only him makes me crazy. I turned the radio on my phone and got sleep.

The next day, I woke up early and replied to Nick's chats while I was taking my breakfast. I even apologized to him for not answering his chats yesterday evening. Fortunately, he is understandable to me. 30 minutes ago I left our house. And today, my goal is to see my father in person, so I need to know where his office is.

I arrived at the office at exactly 5 a.m. in the morning. I wandered my eyes and the light from Hailey's office caught my attention, and through the transparent door, I could hear an old man's angry voice. I couldn't see his face because he was talking while facing Hailey.

So, it appears that I arrived at the wrong time today. I turned on the light on the side of Sir Michael's office and, of course, eavesdropped to hear what was going on with my half sister.

"YOU ARE SUCH A FAILURE, HAILEY!! YOU ARE JUST A FAILURE! I TOLD YOU TO LEAVE THIS POSITION BECAUSE OF YOUR LACK OF INTELLIGENCE! THERE ARE MORE DESERVING PEOPLE THAN YOU! HONESTLY, I WISH I SHOULDN'T LET YOU STUDY AT HARVARD. THE RESULT OF YOUR WORK DOES NOT SEEM LIKE YOU ARE A GRADUATE OF THAT PRESTIGE SCHOOL AT ALL. YOU BROUGHT SO MUCH SHAME TO MY COMPANY!"

That was the old man's loud shout to Hailey. I don't know but I also feel hurt by what this mysterious old man said. Maybe his position is higher than Hailey's.

"Dad... sorry... I promised to do my best! Just give me another chance!" Hailey begged.

My whole body almost trembled and a mixture of joy and anger was the dominant emotions in me. I turned on the light and immediately sat on my seat. I'm afraid that I might be caught eavesdropping.

"WE HAVE FIVE INVESTORS COMING AND THEY ARE ALL VIP'S. ONCE YOU FAILED TO PRESENT OUR OBJECTIVES TO THEM, THE DOOR IS WIDE OPEN! YOU KNOW FOR SURE WHAT IS NEXT!"

I heard the door of Hailey's office slam and I saw my father come out. He was also dressed in black corporate attire and had white hair, indicating that he was too old to be stressed out. My hair is standing up and my blood is boiling. I've confirmed that the emotion I'm experiencing is anger. I want to confront him and express all the hate and anger I've kept hidden for nearly 21 years. But I was taken aback when he abruptly grabbed his chest and collapsed in front of Hailey's office.

I didn't hesitate to stand up to help him. I thought he had a heart attack. I was on the verge of panic, but luckily Hailey came out and helped. Tension filled the air

"Dad!! What happened?" Hailey said while facing our father.

I felt a frantic bubble of fear rise up inside him.

"I think it's a heart attack!" I answered Hailey with a shaky voice. Breathing and relaxing was the only way I knew to control the panic.

Her eyes landed on me. "Please help me bring my father to the clinic!" she said with an American accent.

We carried our father to the clinic in our arms. Fortunately, there was a nurse inside who quickly treated my father. Hailey wanted to ensure the safety of our father, so she even ordered me to call the ambulance using her cellphone while she and the nurse attended to our father's condition.

After I called the ambulance, I helped Hailey carry my father until we put him in the ambulance. When I returned to the office, Sir Michael called me immediately.

"What happened to Sir Joseph?" he asked in wonder.

I took a deep breath before I spoke and I filtered the words I would say to him.

"Sir, I came in early today and accidentally overheard Sir Joseph yelling at Sir Gerald and he was screaming at the top of his lungs; I could feel his rage, and I believe that triggered his heart attack!"

Sir Michael leaned back in his chair before asking a question. "Where did he collapse?"

"Just outside your office!"

A proud half smile tilted his mouth. "I see..." Sir Michael grinned. "On behalf of Mr. Joseph and his family, thank you very much for what you did! I'm sure you have a reward waiting for his family!"

Sir Michael's words made me pale, but I realized that this was a good opportunity for me to be close to my father, and he would soon see my true colors.

"Sir, I am a shy type of person and I think even other people won't hesitate to save Sir Joseph's life. It's just that if I can receive something from their family, I will accept it wholeheartedly!"

"Mr. Joseph's family is extremely generous, and I'm confident he will personally deliver that reward to you!"

I lowered my voice first because I gossiped to him what I had heard earlier. It's dangerous and maybe someone will hear me. "I'm excited to meet him in person, but I just can't figure out why he was so angry with his daughter!"

Sir Michael crossed his arms over his chest. "Well, you'll get used to it! I don't know why he treats his daughter like that either. I'm sure that the janitors and guards will be in a miserable situation. Ma'am Hailey usually vents her frustrations to them because she can't hurt anyone!"

I brought my face closer to Michael to make sure that no one else would hear what I had to say but him. "But how about you, sir? Do you experience being scolded by Hailey?"

"I'm just a senior manager, and fortunately, I'm not submitting any reports to her, so we have no business with each other!" Sir Michael stated emphatically.

I have no further questions and I want to go back to my place. "Okay... okay sir! I'm going back to my seat!"

Sir stood up and came to me while his two hands were in his pockets. "Wait a minute... why do you seem so interested in the Montreal family? I can sense from the tone of your speech that you want to know more about them!"

I bravely made eye to eye contact with Sir Michael and just laughed at what he said even though I was turning pale.

"Sir... I just asked questions and I guarantee you that I have no other intention. Besides, I really thought that once you became as rich as them, there would be no more issues between family members. I thought I was wrong!"

Sir Michael sat in the unoccupied chair in front of me. It was as if he had doubts about what I was telling him. "I know you're a smart person, Stella! You know I'm so impressed with your observation skills. That's why I accepted you into my department. I'm not pulling a joke here, but I can see that you will be a successful person one day. And it's only right that you made Sir Joseph a role model!"

Sir Michael couldn't take his gaze away from me. He was clearly reading me deep down in his head.

"Salright sir... I'm going back to my place!"

He just nodded, so I stood up and went out. Of course, this is not the end of my story, so I'm just like a broken radio and repeating my stories to my colleagues at work. 11 a.m. in the morning when Hailey suddenly appeared in front of our department, she was still wearing her broad smile even though he was scolded by my secret father earlier. I can still smell her expensive perfume.

Her eyes landed on me. "Hey, I haven't said thank you yet! Are you new here?" she asked.

I stood up and tried to imitate her way of speaking in front of everyone. "You are very welcome Ma'am. My name is Stella!"

Damn! I looked like a social climber with my terrible American accent.

Some of my coworkers laughed a bit but I just flinched.

"As a token of appreciation, I'd like to invite you to lunch today!" She said with a cheerful smile.

She spoke English so fast that I only heard a few words of what he was saying and had to use my common sense to understand the context.

"I accept your offer Ma'am," I said without a second thought. "Let me ask my manager about this!" I don't want Sir Michael to be bypassed. I have a lot of respect for him so he needs to know about this!"

"It's fine!" said Sir Michael, who had just left his office. He dragged his feet towards Hailey and they exchanged smiles.

"So how is Sir Joseph's condition?" Sir Michael asked.

Hailey let out a slow breath of relief. "He had a heart attack but miraculously, his condition is stable at the hospital!"

"That's good to hear! Anyway, you can borrow Stella for a while. She told me that Sir Joseph is her idol and her dream job is to work in this company!"

I don't know what went through Sir Michael's mind when he slipped his mouth and said that. Damn it, I ain't ready to tag along with my halfsister and I was drenched in sweat even for no apparent reason.

Hailey gave me an appreciative grin. "Is that so? Then welcome to this company! I hope we can be friends, Stella!"

Out of the corner of my eyes, I could see the blushing cheeks of Nick who was right next to me. It made me think that maybe he has a secret crush on Hailey even though in our chats, he blatantly tarnished her reputation.

I stood up and went with Hailey. Damn! It's a painful feeling when your crush has another crush. I can see the attention that Hailey gets from the people around her, maybe if we are always together, I have to get used to this kind of situation.

After we arrived in front of the elevator, two women came out and took a picture of Hailey. They don't wear uniforms the same with us so I thought they were working on another company. The worst part is, I took the picture of them with Hailey and I heard no thank you. When they left, I praised my halfsister while we waited for the elevator to go down to the ground floor.

"Wow. Your charisma is so strong, Ma'am. It's good that you have a fan base, if only I am as beautiful as you, I'd probably be famous too!"

The elevator opened on the left side and we both entered before she answered my question. Fortunately, the elevator was empty so we can have a heart to heart talk.

"It seems like you accidentally overheard my conversation with my father earlier?" Hailey let out a frustrated sigh before continuing to speak. "That old man has never been so proud of me ever since. All I want is to make him proud!"

It's hard to lie and I probably have nothing to lose if I admit the truth. "Yyes Ma'am Hailey... I'm sorry, I had no intention of interfering in your personal matters."

"I know that. I'm sorry too, I am a failure so I deserved to be yelled like that!"

"Not that I'm interrupting, but does sir Joseph yell at you every day?" I bravely asked.

"Well, that only happens when he is in a bad mood. Usually, I'm the one he gets angry at. Although, I admit that I tend to fail most of the time but it does not mean I am nit doing my best!"

"Don't worry, Ma'am. The time will come when your father will be proud of you. No one starts being good right away," I advised her. This is also what my mother advised me before, so I became a strong person. Of course, sharing is carrying.

"By the way, Stella, are you a fresh graduate?" she asked, disregarding my advice to her.

"Yes Ma'am Hailey, this is my first work!" I answered right away.

"Congratulations. Are you an honored student?"

"I don't want to brag or anything of that nature but yes I am! I was cum laude before and the moment HR and sir Michael saw my credentials, they accepted me right away!"

The elevator opened and we got out. It seems that she forgot what I told her so she changed the topic again.

"We'll go to the restaurant near here, we'll both eat there!"

My stomach almost lurched at what she said. Because in my whole life, I have never eaten at that kind of restaurant. But I am not a picky eater.

"Actually Ma'am, it's okay with me if we're just next to the cafeterias. I'm not picky about food."

"Okay, I know a restaurant near here, we just need to walk a little bit. I'm not picky about food either, so it's okay. Besides, I'd like eating foods of poor as well!"

I guess I did something wrong, I should have just said yes to her. Now, I have no choice. When we got out, we went to the left side of our building and stopped in front of a kiosk stand with a silver roof but this kiosk is filled with many customers.

"Looks like we won't be able to eat right away with so many people, Ma'am!" I complained to her.

"Alright, let's go to the most underrated restaurant in this place!"

"Sure!" I replied shortly.

We just kept walking until we got to the very end of the kiosks where there was an old man selling by himself. My heart was suddenly filled with compassion because nobody was dining in front of his shop. When he turned to Hailey, he happily greeted him.

"Hey, how are you Hailey? It seems like we haven't seen each other in a while?" he asked. His excitement was plain to see in his eyes.

"Don't worry, I'm fine Dad Elmo. Can we eat here?" Hailey asked.

"Well, yes!! In fact, you are my first customers today!"

"Is that so? Don't worry, we will be eating here often," Hailey put her arm around my shoulder and introduced me to Elmo. "By the way, I would like you to meet Stella. Our new employee! She saved Daddy Joseph earlier so I will treat her."

"Really? I am glad that your father is doing okay! They said that your father is really kind!"

I just looked at Hailey while she was talking to the old man. I don't know but I can see the disappointment in her eyes.

"Dad is really kind, just to other people!" Hailey said with a frown. "Sometimes, I ask myself if I'm really his daughter!"

"Didn't I tell you before that you should work hard? Like it or not, I know your father is very proud of you!"

Hailey's face remained sad and she changed the topic again. "Alright Stella and I have two rice!" she turned to me and asked. "What do you want to eat?"

"I'm fine with the vegetable dish. I am actually a vegetarian!"

Hailey turned back to father Elmo. "Alright, mine is the same!" She took her branded wallet that I dreamed of having. She took 50 dollars and gave it to Elmo.

She suddenly asked me a shocking question.

"How about you, Stella? Where is your father working?"

What she asked me made me sweat. I almost swallowed the rice in my mouth without chewing. It took a few seconds before I stuttered to speak. I need to be very careful otherwise I'll be caught in my own lies.

"My... my... my father left us since I was a kid so my mother raised me alone!" I really tried to cry to bring him to my emotions. Fortunately I really cried in front of her.

She held my hand and looked me in the eyes with pity. It seems I am a best actress as of this moment.

She gave me an apologetic grimace. "Sorry if I brought such painful past. But I'm sure that you and your mother went through a lot and she breathed a sigh of relief when you graduated!"

I agreed with what Hailey told me. "Well, I can't deny that what you told me was true. When she presented me with the award, our stage was almost flooded with tears!"

"Too bad, I am certain that your father regrets leaving you behind. He has no balls at all!"

Before a lie could slipped in my mouth again, I asked her a question to divert the topic. "You, I'm sure your father was proud of you when he attended your graduation!"

Hailey's face seemed to be entwined with heaven and earth at what I said and I was surprised by what he said.

"Actually, my father did not attend my graduation because he was very busy at that time. So I was all by myself. Although I knew that was just an excuse. He was obviously not interested in attending because maybe he regretted that he just adopted me!"

I feel so sorry for Hailey. Who would have thought that her father treated her like that?

"Well, now is the time to prove yourself to sir Joseph!"

Hailey gave me a serious look. "Look, I am doing my best to be a good boss but my father's standards are so high that I don't know if I will resign or what. Especially now, he wants to have to create new products for our big event. Investors will come so we have to prepare!"

"I see, you are launching new sets of brands, is that correct?" I asked her in wonder.

"You know, we need to go with the flow. We have to set a new trends so we can boost our sales!"

"I see. But I'm sure you'll ace this project since you came from a very prestige school!"

Hailey turned pale when I praised her.

"Really sis? Thank you, but I would like to Make me and Nick the models since we are perfectly match, won't you agree!?" she asked, then rested her hand on her chin. "Honestly, I think that guy has a crush on me. Only if he is as rich as I am, he would have a chance to become my boyfriend!"

My eyes widened again at Hailey's words. It seems that I have hope in getting Nick's heart. But the problem is, my sister will be my rival. However, I wasn't going to just agree to let them get closer so I volunteered participating.

"Sis, I would also like to participate in the event. Maybe it's possible even if I'm not beautiful, right?"

Hailey suddenly smiled. "You can join but I will think of a better way to give you a position!"

I told her about my ability to create business concept. "I don't want to brag or anything of that nature but I have wide knowledge in creating concepts to ace the market. Would you like to try?"

Hailey smiled. "Of course I want. Let us talk about it in the office!"

"Okay, I'll make sure you won't be disappointed, when is the exact date of the event though?"

"It's still next month but right now, we need are being pressured as it takes lots of preparation for this event. Can I ask you one favor?"

I grinned. "Sure what is that?"

"I'm still a girl so I am too shy to ask Nick about this, can you ask him to do accept it?"

I felt jealous but I know that nothing should be personal when it comes to work.

"Yes Ma'am Hailey, I don't have a problem with that thing. I will chat him later!"

"Thank you sis! When we're out of the office, you don't have to be formal. Just call me sis. After all, we are just like sisters having a nice time together!"

"It's fine with me, but I just want to ask, do you have a boyfriend, sis?"

Hailey leaned back in her chair and crossed her arms over her chest. "Believe it or not, I have two boyfriends in the past and my father did not know about them. They are not as handsome as Nick but they have strong sex appeal!"

Now, I realize that Hailey is really a liberated girl despite her beautiful face.

"By the way, tomorrow after work shift, I will go to the gym so I will keep my fit body. Wanna come?"

I agreed immediately. I can definitely hang out with Hailey to learn more about my father.

"Sure, why not! Honestly, I really want to be fit as well but I don't know how to start!"

"Don't worry, the gym instructor will teach us everything to do. You seemed to be inspired to go to the gym. Do you have a boyfriend?"

I grinned, as expected she would return the awkward question to me. I replied quickly. "I'm only focusing on my career first. But in fact, I really want to have a boyfriend since I feel like I am already left behind!"

Suddenly a waiter came by and accidentally spilled the Juice on Stella's clothes and the waiter immediately apologized to her.

"Sorry Ma'am, I didn't mean it!"

Stella suddenly stood up and looked at the waiter in a mocking way. It looked like she was really fucked up with what happened.

"Fuck, are you stupid? Out of all the people who eat here, you're going to bump into me?"

The waiter was on the verge of panic and looked like he was about to faint from nervousness. I tried defending him from Stella's rants.

"Sis, I am sorry on behalf of the waiter. Maybe he was tired!" I said with a firmed voice.

I really hate people who think they are above other people. It really annoys me!

Stella suddenly pointed at me. "Stop defending him, he should be punished for what he did. As customers, we don't tolerate like this to happen!"

I was surprised that she refused to listen to me. I became quiet again. She turned back to the waiter who spoke again while keeping his head down.

"Ma'am, I'll just pay for your clothes if you want!"

Stella grinned as if he was insulted by what she heard. "Are you kidding? Do you know how much this dress costs? Even if you work forever, you will never pay me back!" she yelled at the waiter.

The manager of the restaurant suddenly came out because Stella was causing an embarrassing scene that even I could not imagine she was capable of.

"What happened Ma'am?" asked the manager who smiled at Stella.

Stella let out her frustration to the manager. "Why hire someone who's not experienced enough for this kind of work? He accidentally spilled the fucking juice on my coat that I bought in France for half a million. Even if you two combine your income, you won't be able to pay for my coat!"

This time, I have no other choice but to stand up. It hurts to see someone being stepped on and as a sister, I want Stella to learn how to have breeding.

"Sis, I think it's inappropriate to say such horrible things against someone who's working to feed their families!"

Stella glared at me but I was not intimidated. "Please sis, it's none of your business. I'll do what I want to do. Do you know that the money I bought here is my savings? How can I disregard this accident like it was nothing?"

"Because at any time, we don't have the right to step on other people. Please, don't try to despise and belittle any of them because if you don't, I will be forced to report you to your father, Stella!"

Stella calmed down. She seemed terrified with what I just told her. Damn! I can't believe that it was quite effective!

"You cannot take back words that you said but at least, try to say sorry!" I dare to tell her.

Stella took a deep breath and politely apologized to the waiter and manager.

"Alright, I sincerely apologized with the rude attitude. I'm just not in a good mood today!"

"It's okay Ma'am, I will make sure it won't happen again!" said the manager.

After we ate, we walked back to the office. I was surprised when Stella suddenly apologized to me.

"Sis, I am sorry for what I did earlier. I know you felt ashamed to be with someone like me who is arrogant. Honestly, I don't know that I have adopted my father's behavior. He often embarrasses people so I definitely absorbed it.

"I understand sis, I'm also sorry if I forgot that I'm just your employee. I hope it doesn't get in the way of us being friends!"

She smiled. "Of course!"

"But I'm serious, I can't believe that your coat costs half a million. Do you want me to wash it?"

"Don't mention it," she said. "This dress is very important to me, but I realized that what you said earlier was right. As they say, if you give something personal to another person, that only means that you value your relationship with them!"

My forehead knitted in confusion. "What do you mean, sis? I cannot fathom your words?"

"What I mean is I'd like to give this corporate attire to you as a symbol of our flourishing friendship!" she said. "You can wash it now and please take care of it!"

I accepted her offer with no hesitation since I like the coat. I agreed even though I know that such expensive clothing is not suitable for my earthly body.

"Thank you very much, in return do you want to drink later or the next day? There is a bar in this area where we can hangout. I know you have a high standard, but the easiest way for you to adapt to the way of living in this country is to explore!"

"I can't understand what you mean," she said with a hesitant voice.

"Sorry sis, I mean I'd like to invite you to a bar so you experience the life of a poor person like me. Although, I am not forcing you if you don't want to!"

She curled her lips to smile. "That's cool. I'd like to experience that. It's been a while since my friends and I had a drink at Harvard. Because after graduation, I went straight to my dad's company so I've got to release my stress. I shall email you after the work!"

I put my arm around Stella and whispered. "Please don't tell your father about this!"

"Oh come on, I won't tell him about this because I might get suspended to work if I do so. I know him from head to toe. He is a very conservative man who hates going to the bar or hanging out with other people unless they've got business to work on!"

"Yes, I know that very well. Anyway, are you a heavy drinker?"

"I won't say I am but we will definitely have fun for sure. Of course, I was a party girl when I was in France so night party is a must. School is boring without leisure!"

When we returned to the office, it was only 12:40 p.m. Almost all the lights in the departments were turned off, even my colleagues at work were al asleep. I slowly went to my seat and was about to sit down when Nick woke up. This guy has a sharp

I immediately smiled at her and sat in my seat.

"Hey, how's your walk going, sir? Are you full?" he asked, smiling at me.

I belched suddenly and looked around, luckily no one woke up. Andrea suddenly laughed at me.

"Hahahaha, don't answer. I already know!" he answered lamely, followed by another question, "Is Hailey a nice person to you?"

The way that he asked this question, as if he really knows Hailey from the very start.

"She's so much fun to be around!" I answered. "And believe it or not, we treated each other like sisters!"

I wasn't able to detail the whole thing, especially when Hailey showed her bad side. That incident was really bad and I think it will be imprinted on my mind forever.

"Well," Nick said as he seemed not impressed with my answer. Suddenly, he lowered his voice. "Didn't she yell at the waiter or manager? That brat has got some bad attitude especially when her clothes got even a tiny stain!"

I suddenly sweat. As I thought, he really knows a lot about Hailey's personality. Of course, even though I want to admit the truth, I still have to cover up for Hailey to avoid staining our flourishing friendship.

"Nothing like that happened earlier. But do you know she would like to invite you to become a model for the upcoming launch of their new products. Willing to join?"

Nick's eyes widened in shock and I could tell from his serious face that he became more interested in our topic.

"Really? Maybe you're just referring to other Nick? As far as I know, there are many Nick here in the office!"

I stood by what I told him. "I'm sure she's talking about you?"

"Wow! Is that true? I've dreamed of becoming a model for a long time!"

I could see the excitement on his reddened face.

"I'll chat with Hailey later so I can find out other details. By the way, thank you for that news Stella!"

I was so shocked to learn about this. "Hold on a sec, are you chatting with her?" I asked in wonder.

"Yes, we used to be close that is why I chatted with her before. Why did you ask?"

"No, nothing!" I replied.

"Why don't we go out together? I'd like to talk to you for a longer period of time!"

As much as I'd like to accept Nick's offer, I am hanging out with Hailey today so I declined it.

"Actually, Hailey and I will hangout later. I am not trying to get her attention but we just want to know each other!"

"Going to a bar?" he asked.

"In fact, Hailey and I are going to have a drink later. I invited him and he didn't refuse! Please don't tell anyone about this!"

"Okay. Please enjoy, you seem to be at ease with each other. I feel like you're treating each other like sisters already!"

Deep inside, what Nick said was true. But I've got a feeling that Hailey will become my rival with Nick's heart soon.

"Of course, although I can't keep up with her English that is why I don't say that much when she asked me something!"

"You can do it, Stella! You'll get used to it soon. At least you'll be able to improve your English speaking. The fact that you're an honored student means doing such thing is a piece of cake for you!"

"Thank you Nick, you are so supportive!"

"By the way, what else did you two talk about?"

Suddenly the lights turned on. Nick and I didn't even notice that it was already 1 in the afternoon because we were enjoying our conversation. And like Nick, the rest of our colleagues also asked me same question that's why I'm like a broken machine repeating the story over and over again.

This day has passed and it's time to go home. I was about to turn off my computer when Hailey suddenly sent me an email. Maybe she got it from Sir Michael but I never asked her about it. I read the email in my mind.

"Hello Stella, please wait at the parking lot. I just need to finish my reports then we'll leave later!"

Nick looked at my computer and got curious about my email.

"It looks like you and Hailey have constant communication already!"

I smiled at Nick. "Yes hehe!" I said.

Nick arranged his things as he spoke. "But I hope you and Hailey enjoy your bonding. I will going now, stay safe?"

"Take care, you too!"

Our other work colleagues have also went their way and I am the only one left in the office. I turned off my pc and I went comfort room for a while. As I entered the toilet, there were two women who entered, gossiping about someone.

I put my ears on the wall to listen to them. I guess they are gossiping about me.

"Cathy, do you know the new girl in the marketing department?"

"Is that the arrogant one? I have a feeling that woman is a whore!"

I was really offended with what I heard. I could not accept that they called me something I am not. I guess, you really can't please anyone.

"It looks like She's going to steal Nick and used Hailey to be promoted!"

"You know, I don't care if she become close with the arrogant boss. But just try to flirt with Nick, I'll show her my bad side!"

"Didn't Nick rejected you?"

"If Nick couldn't be with me, I don't want him to be with anyone else. Especially with that woman. What's her name again?"

"I've heard her name is Stella. She became quite famous because she saved the President who had a heart attack!"

I've heard their footsteps weakening, an indication that they were no longer in the comfort room. I came out and admitted that I was hurt by what I heard.

I peed and went out of the comfort room to wash my face. Damn! This is my first time experiencing I've ever been gossiped in my entire life and the pain is heartwrenching. When I returned to the office, I saw Hailey glancing at her cell phone in front of my area. She was wearing a plain red shirt and her face was beautiful even without make up.

I took a few steps before she looked at me and greeted me with a smile.

"Hey sis, shall we go now?" she asked. "Sorry I was really busy a while ago with my work!"

I went to my area and took my things while taking to Hailey. "That's okay, I am not in a hurry."

"Wait a minute, what is your social media account or even just a cellphone number? Our email is for business purposes, so it's better if we communicate by other means!"

I gave her my number and social media account. She sent a friend request to me, and I immediately accepted her. We walked to the parking lot until I saw her brand new Mercedes. My jaw dropped on the floor because of its impeccable beauty.

With the remote on her hand, her car suddenly opened as we approached it. She then shared something about her Mercedes.

"This is the car I purchased in the US after I graduated. Actually, it's my birthday gift for myself. Let's ride!"

The happiness in my heart overflowing. Who would have thought that I would be able to ride in a car that even in my dreams I had never experienced riding. I feel like I'm on a cloud at the moment. Without hesitation, I entered into the front seat and Hailey got on the driver's seat. And because it was my first time riding, I rolled my eyes around in amazement.

Hailey came over and I thought she was going to do something to me, but she just fixed my seatbelt.

"Just relax sis," she said. "Don't worry, I am a real woman hehe!"

"I know Ma'am," I replied.

"By the way," she took something from the back of her car and I was surprised to see it.

"As promised, my coat is yours!" she said after handing me the paper bag. "As I said earlier, please take care of that. There is only a little stain, but you will wash it, right?"

I gave him an appreciative grin. "Thank you very much, Hailey! I will really take care of this coat!"

"You are much welcome. Just tell me when you need anything aside from that!"

"No, this is too much already but I really appreciate your kind offer!"

"By the way, I can only enjoy partying until 10 p.m. My dad is very strict so he'll definitely look for me in my room. I told him that I'll just buy a new necklace in the mall. It does not seem he knows that I am lying though. How about you, did you tell your mom about this?"

"No I did not!" I replied. "I'll just tell her that I am extending my duty!"

"So now, both of us are already liars. Anyway, do they have L'Ermita Priorat here?"

I knitted my forehead in confusion. "And what is that?"

"A brand of wine!"

I feel like I'm going to be embarrassed because I only know common Filipino beverage like lambanog and gin. Still, I have no other choice but to continue our hang out.

"Alright, I'll take care of you sis. Please remain calm!"

She started the engine of her luxurious car and we got off. While she was driving, my mother suddenly chatted with me.

"What time are you coming home, dear?" she asked.

I immediately replied, "Ma, I'll comeback late tonight. We have a lot of work to do!"

It didn't take a few seconds for my mother to chat again. "Dear, of all the people, did you really think you can lie to your own mother? I know you missed hanging out, so I'm sure you'll wander off again with your workmates!"

I just grinned when Hailey noticed my serious face.

"Who are you chatting, sis?" she suddenly asked while looking at the road.

"Ah, my mother chatted with me and asked what time I would be home!" I replied while glancing at my phone and thought of what I could reply to my mother.

"Your mom really loves you, I wonder if my real parents were still here. Would they also care for me?"

"Of course. That's how parents are, even if it's annoying sometimes. You know my mother, she knows me from head to toe!"

"Why, did he catch you lying?" she asked.

"Actually yes, she was asking me what time I would be home. I said I was going to be late because of my work but she caught me lying. She knew I was going to drink as I used to do when I was still in college!"

Hailey tilted her lips to smile. "Really? It's hard to study in college and yet you're still an honored student even when you often hang out with your friends!"

I took a deep sigh. "Yes. Do you know that business management is my second choice? My first dream is to become a model but I think I don't have what it takes to become a model!"

"At least you're a smart person. Most of the models I know were either dropped out or they could not land a job due to their low I.Q."

"Yes... when I was in College, I often participated in pageant, but I never won a single one!"

"You've got some confidence to join such a pageant. Well, you tried your best and that's something to be proud of!"

"Yes. My mom was the only person cheering up for me that time. I could not realize that I was able to make her happy with my little achievements before. That's why I really love my mom despite her being a nagger and conservative!"