Warming The Billionaire's Cold Heart

A few years ago.

"Nick, I'm pretty confident that Briana is cheating on you."

Nicholas looked up. The look of surprise was clear on the man's handsome face. But he still tried to calm down to respond to his friend's words.

"What nonsense is this, Jack? Did you see it for yourself?"

Jacob shook his head. It was not he who witnessed the incident. "But, I can prove what I just said. Hans who accidentally saw Briana go with another man. Not even once. But many times."

"It's a bullshit, Jack!"

"I swear, Nick. I'm telling you about this so you can be more careful. So far, Briana has been kind and loyal. In fact, she betrayed you. I can't even tolerate what your fiancé did!"

Seconds later, Jacob held out his cell phone, intending to show Nicholas something. The thing that made the man feel breathless. Visible in Nicholas's eyes, a photo of a man and girl kissing. He recognized the woman as Briana and the man was the manager of his girlfriend.

"Briana has betrayed you, Nick. Are you confident you're going to marry her, anyway?" Jacob asked for safe. "Your Fiance really has lied to you. This just can't be forgiven. You should clarify as soon as possible."

Nicholas growled in annoyance. Trying to deny all the information that his best friend gave. So, to prove everything Jacob said, Nicholas, who was on a business trip to Milan, returned to London.

Nicholas Alistair is in a serious relationship with Briana Swan, who works as a profesional artist. The two of them are even engaged and will get married in a few weeks.

Arriving at the Airport, Nicholas started his car at an aboveaverage speed. Splitting the streets of London to an elite residence in the center of city. When he arrived, Nicholas brought his feet to the apartment unit that Briana had been occupying. Placing a finger on the key sensor, the apartement door opened. Nicholas was a little confused because he found the entire room was dark. Only the lights in Briana's place seemed to be still on.

"Oh, God ... I love the way you satisfy me, Honey. You've never once let me down."

"I can even give you more than this."

From Briana's room, Nicholas could hear the voices of a woman and a man sighing at each other and whispering. Overwhelmed with curiosity, Nicholas opened slowly the door to the room, which was not locked from the inside. It shocked him when he found his fiancée being intimate with another man in a state of no clothes.

"I'm glad you can satisfy me like this, Mario. I'm happy that you are always by my side like now."

"Anytime, I'll always be there when you need, Briana. It's not hard to satisfy you in bed."

Hearing Mario's words, Briana smiled. She kissed the man in front of her again. Mario then also returned the kiss that Briana gave. Carrying his hand, caressing the woman's entire body intensely.

"One thing I like about you, Mario ... ," Briana whispered. "You're very different from Nicholas. In all his life in a relationship, Nicholas never wanted to sleep with me."

Briana didn't realize that Nicholas was watching her from outside the room. Until not long, because he could not stand it, Nicholas chose to immediately enter the room. This of course made Briana and Mario surprised.

Noticing Nicholas's presence, still breathless, Briana tried to speak. "Good grief, Nick, wwhat are you doing here?" Briana glared in shock. She pulled the blanket up, struggling to cover her naked body.

"What am I doing? I should be the one asking, what are you doing with that man?" Nicholas cast a piercing gaze at the man next to Briana.

"Ime? Of course, I'm having fun," Briana replied.

Nicholas remained in his position. Trying to hold back the emotions that almost exploded. Even the glint of his eyes and his sharp jaw showed he was ready to pounce on anyone, regardless of who it was.

"I can't believe you're doing this in my favor. You betrayed me." Nicholas shook his head in disbelief. "I don't think we need to continue this engagement anymore. Everything is clear enough for me," he continued later.

Instead of being anxious, Briana looked calm, as if she had known for this to happen in the end.

"I wanted to cancel our engagement long ago. Besides, I don't choose you, Nick. You're too busy with your world of work. As deep as we're dating, you don't require touching me," said Briana.

Nicholas snickered at what he had just heard. He's always been regarding the wrong woman. "You realize I feel it would be better not to disturb you? I just demand to protect you, make sure my ego doesn't take away your honor. And you guess that's a mistake?" Nicholas didn't understand Briana's way of thinking.

Briana even laughed discord at Nicholas' words. "You're too naïve, Nicholas Alistair. I'm a modern woman who also needs warmth from a partner. What about you? You've been acting like an oldfashioned man all this time. Not to mention, you're so busy taking care of your job, paying no attention to me. I'm sick of all your behavior."

Nicholas nodded at Briana. Seconds later, the man spoke again. "Alright, I will follow your wishes. From now on, we will end this engagement. Never appear before me."

"You think I'll regret it? Of course not, Nick. I've been waiting for this moment for a long term." Briana approached her mistress, raised her face, then landed a deep kiss as if she wasn't concerned about Nicholas' presence, who looked at her in disgust.

"Why are you still here?" Asked Briana after breaking the brush. "Just so you know, you're interfering with my day making love, Nick. We don't have any relationship, so you'd better get out of here," said Briana.

Nicholas turned around. Without saying a word, the man then left. Leaving Briana's apartment with a million pains gnawing at his heart.

“Henry Cavill, damn it!” cursed Kimberly. “If only I didn't watch Netflix series until dawn, maybe it wouldn't be this late.”

This morning, for the umpteenth time, Kimberly had to be late to the office for such a trivial reason. She stepped foot along the corridor of the AlpaBeta Corporation building to go to her room. However, before arriving, Kimberly bumped into a man in the opposite direction so that they both sat on the floor.

“Gosh! Am I not big enough that you can't look at me?” murmured the man in front of her.

Grimacing, Kimberly tried to get up. “Sorry, I was rushing, so I didn't see you. Once again, I apologize,” Kimberly replied without turning her head towards the other person. She was too busy tidying up the blazer she was wearing. Then just ran away, ignoring the man who hit her cursed in pain.

"Shit! Why are there such impudent employees at AlpaBeta!"

Kimberly can breathe easy. How could she not? She could take place at the work a few minutes before Andrew, the most killer supervisor in the department, walked around the room.

Just as she sat down, someone had already rebuked Kimberly's behavior. “This is the second moment you've been late, Kimmy. What have you been doing until you didn't arrive on time?” said Keyra, Kimberly's best friend.

Holding her breath, Kimberly answered. “The previous few days I've been too busy watching Netflix series until late at night, that's why my sleep schedule is a little messed up.”

Keyra shook her head at Kimberly's say. “Good grief, Kimmy, maybe now you can survive. If tomorrow Mr. Andrew finds you back later, I've made sure you will be punished,” replied Keyra.

Kimberly shrugged her shoulders. “It can't be helped. My hobby is watching Netflix or Korean dramas. Besides, the movie 'The Witcher' is too great to pass up, Key. You should watch it too. As you know? I feel like I'm Yennifer after seeing the series,” Kimberly answered.

“Then think that Mr. Andrew is Henry Cavill? Handsome boss, but so hard to beat?” Investigate Keyra.

Kimberly chuckled. “Why should Mr. Andrew become Geralt of Rivia? You can also, Mr. Nicholas. Our CEO is more suited to be an icecold leader.”

"I guess someone should punish once Kimmy in a while, Key.” sneered Alex, the male friend who sat opposite Kimberly.

Without thinking, Kimberly pinched Alex's arm, which was teasing her. The three of them laughed together until someone came who stopped their activities. Personable and charismatic gentleman, but is too rigid with everyone. He is Andrew, a supervisor, but feared by many other workers.

With firm steps, the man approached Kimberly's sitting position. “Kimmy, starting now, we assigned you to the main building to move over Sandra, who resigns next week,” Andrew ordered. Kimberly and her two friends jumped in surprise at Andrew's immediate announcement.

Kimberly stared at Andrew's face. “Bbut, sir. Isn't this too unusual? Besides, why should I get over Sandra?” Kimberly stammered.

Andrew crossed his arms in front of his chest. “The HRD requested for help to recommend suitable employees to change Sandra. I proposed your name because I think you are quite competent in that arrange,” replied Andrew.

Kimberly looked at Andrew. “Does it have to be now, sir? You know what put Sandra has been in all this time?” asked Kimberly again to make sure.

Yes, anybody knows very well. Sandra has been the personal secretary of the CEO of AlpaBeta Corporations. It meant that Kimberly could no longer roam back and forth like she used to before. Because she has to stand by at her desk and follow their CEO wherever they go.

Andrew laughed at Kimberly. “I know, Kimmy. That's why I recommended you to replace Sandra,” Andrew replied. “So now, pack your things. In thirty minutes we will go to the main building to see the boss,” Andrew ordered and left the place.

Kimberly was annoyed with Andrew's unilateral agreement for her. Although, she could have taken on a different task. However, this arrangement seemed sudden, so that Kimberly did not have any preparation beforehand.

Seeing their partners who were upset, Keyra and Alex approached and helped Kimberly, who was tidying up the items on her counter one by one.

"Iwill be lonely in my new place,” Kimberly said with a melancholy.

But instead of being sad, Alex pinched Kimberly's cheeks. "You are a drama queen, Kimmy. You are too much! Your place is just in front of you. You can even walk for five minutes if you want to visit us,” Alex protested, responding to the laughter by Keyra.

"You two are like a cat and a dog when you meet!" Kyra chuckled at the behavior of her two best friends.

Right after finishing, helping Kimberly tidy up all her parts. Andrew came back and asked Kimberly to accompany him. It was clear on her face that she was lazy to follow the excited Andrew to the main building of the AlpaBeta Corporations.

Upon arrival. There was already Sandra waiting and allowing the two of them to enter the CEO's office. Entering a white area mixed with brown, Andrew and Kimberly found the owner of the office busy sitting with a pile of files on his desk. The brownhaired man looked so serious that Sandra's call averted his eyes.

“Mr. Nicholas, sorry to interrupt, my substitute assistant is here with Andrew from the planning division supervisor," said Sandra.

Nicholas nodded, but the look in his eyes then changed to a show of surprise.

"You ” Nicholas was silent for a moment, observing the woman in the fight of him from head to toe, and then continued his speech. “You bumped into me this dawn, right?” Accused Nicholas.

Kimberly looked confused to hear the sounds of the man in the face of her. Then, a few minutes later, she was seen patting herself on the forehead. “Gosh, Wwas it you ran into this morning?" asked Kimberly, looking nervous.

Nicholas was raising one of his eyebrows while facing into Kimberly's expression. “Absolutely yes!"

Kimberly put on a panicked face. She cursed in her heart, ignoring the man in top of her, who now showed so annoyed. “I'm pitiful, Mr. Nicholas. I was sassy of banging into mister this morning,"

Instead of forgiving, Nicholas doubting Kimberly's words. “Even after crashing into you, you just left me with no guilt?”

The sharp face of Nicholas's encounter did Andrew, who was there, get over the conversation. “In advance, I apologize, Mr. Nicholas, if my partner did a fatal mistake against you. Regardless of all that, I do sure after this, Kimberly will not act. I can guarantee that,” replied Andrew.

Nicholas glanced at Andrew's face, then nodded his head. He agreed with what Andrew spoke to him. “Well, I can rely on your friend on, Drew. I know very well your performance, I hope she does the same as you.” pointed Nicholas right in Kimberly's face.

Then Sandra asked Kimberly to follow her steps to the new study. “Today I'm going to teach you a few things you should do. You can write them down, so you don't forget, Kimmy. You also have to remember, Mr. Nicholas is a very perfectionist. So make clear everything you do must be perfect without the slightest flaw.” It surprised Kimherly to hear Sandra's explanation.

While enjoying lunch at the café next to the office, Kimberly seemed so enthusiastic about telling her two friends. Meanwhile, Alex and Keyra could only be stunned by what Kimberly told them about what had happened this morning. She bumps into Nicholas, who is the CEO of their corporation.

"Are you crazy, Kimberly? It's though fortunate that Mr. Nicholas didn't fire you right away,” replied Alex while eating the food in front of him.

Now Kimherly is massaging her forehead, which feels dizzy while speaking. “I think my eyes need to be checked. I didn't realize that the man who fell this dawn was Mr. Nicholas. And enough, I just left him.” Kimberly's shoulders slumped. She kept cursing himself for the stupidity she had done.

Keyra, who had just laughed at her best friend, now joined in the conversation. “By the way, you still have to be careful with Mr. Nicholas. Everyone knows he doesn't like forgetful people. Those two criteria are in you.” Alex chuckled at Keyra's words.

“But all the CEOs in our company are famous perfectionists. Do you remember Mr. Jacob? He is even stricter than Mr. Nicholas,” said Alex later. It's no secret that the AlpaBeta's owner are perfectionist men and too workaholics. They spent part of their life working. There is not the slightest time to play games with women.

"You're right, they both are the definition of an ideal man. Just look at Mr. Jacob Grey. In his life, there is only one young woman, his wife. You must have heard the rumors that they had set him and his wife up since childhood.” Alex nodded in agreement.

Kimberly looked enthusiastic. “Then what is the purpose of you talking about Mr. Jacob, who is already married? We're discussing Mr. Nicholas now!”

Keyra and Alex laughed again at their friend's opinions. Suddenly, Keyra brought her sitting position closer to Kimberly. The girl then whispered. “So you want us to talk about Mr. Nicholas? Everyone knows Mr. Nicholas is the oldest man in the entire building. No young woman he's ever spoken to except Mrs. Grey, Mr. Jacob's wife."

Kimberly chuckled at Kara's opinions. “Then do I have to be as beautiful and as good as Mrs. Grey when I wanted to attract Mr. Nicholas's attention? Is that so?"

Alex, who was eating cake in front of Kimberly, now moved his body closer to his two friends. “You expect too high, Kimmy. Mrs. Grey is too ideal to follow.” Alex paused his sentence. “But just so you know, I've also thought, like you, could Mr. Kimberly be gay?” murmured Alex.

Hearing this news, Kimberly and Keyra cursed at the same moment. “Don't be crazy. Why does a man as handsome as him have to be gay!" Kimmy protested.

"According to the rumors circulating, Mr. Nicholas closed his heart to women. Many say that he turned cold because his exfiancé betrayed him.” Kimberly and Alex nodded, getting into Keyra's story.

"How about I try to be Mr. Nicholas's girlfriend?” said Kimberly.

Hearing Kimberly's speeches, Keyra and Alex laughed at her. Even Alex stretched out his hand and touched Kimberly's forehead. "Are you sick? Don't be crazy, Kimmy. You still young." mocked Alex with a reproachful look on his face.

A smile appeared on Kimberly's face. “You should support me. Who knows, Mr. Nicholas will one day fall in love with me,” Natalia replied.

Alex laughed again at his friend, who was getting more and more arrogant with his words. “Just so you know, Kimmy, if one day Mr. Nicholas falls in love with you, I, Alexius Smith swear I'll do whatever you ask." Now it was Alex's turn who looked so confident to challenge Kimberly.

Kimberly look smiled. “So you're challenging me? I'm sure Mr. Nicholas will be on his knees before me!” Kimberly's hand reached out in reply to Alex's handshake. Keyra could only shake her head at the behavior of her two best friends.

“Kimmy, this is the agreement file that Mr. Nicholas asked for. Please complete it because he will confirm it today,” said Steven as he handed some files to Kimberly, who was walking towards his office.

"Okay, sir.”

"Kimmy, this is Mr. Nicholas's schedule that you have to arrange for the next few days. Please check and pay attention.” This time it was Nancy's turn from the planning division to offer her the work meeting agenda book.

"Okay, ma'am."

"Kimmy, this is a list of investors you should contact.”

"Ready!”

Kimberly entered the room, feeling annoyed. She placed the pile of files he was carrying so that some papers even fell on the floor. It was eight o'clock in the morning, but the man he knew as the CEO was pissing hers off. Having just become a assistant, why did she have to feel this hell?

"He thinks because he's an owner, he just orders me like this? Shit! Isn't this too much? How can I finish this many piles of registers in a day? You CRAZY MR. NICHOLAS!!!" cursed Kimberly.

While babbling in her heart, Kimberly continued to do the task Nicholas had given her. Felt that what new chief had ordered this morning was frustrating her. How can the man give, so we must complete many tasks and according to the deadline, he set?

Before Kimberly had finished her work, there was a call from behind the intercom line on the table. Kimberly picked it up. “Come to my room now!" "Okay, I'll be there soon," Kimberly replied, then with unsteady steps, she dragged her feet into Nicholas's room.

Inside, Kimberly saw the owner of the room busy reviewing the arranged files in the front of him. Kimberly gazed at the man in the face of her, then asked. “What shall I do, Mister?”

"After lunch, join me for a meeting outside the office,” Nicholas said without taking his sees off the pile of files he was reading.

"Bbut Mr.…”

Nicholas averted his regards, then crossed his arms in the air of his chest. “Why? Was there something wrong with what I did?”

Kimberly nodded. “But didn't you just order me to complete some deadlines?”

Nicholas raised an eyebrow. “Then? What's your problem now? Do you want to protest that you can't solve it today?”

Kimberly only shook her head once, responding to her boss's question. Then Nicholas twisted his wrist. Looked at the watch that was circular in his hand. “You still have 300 minutes from now before we go to outside this afternoon. I think that's enough to finish your assignments.”

Kimberly nodded. Even though her heart rebelled, she still couldn't refuse the man's orders. She has no power here. As a subordinate, she has to obey without arguing. “Okay, Mister. I will work on all the deadlines today.”

Then Kimberly pointed her feet towards the exit of the room.

"You madman! He thinks I'm a robot to complete all the tasks he gave him?” Kimberly whispered.

"Kimberly! Stop your cursing. Do you think I didn't hear? Do you want me to add to your assignments?”

Kimberly jumped in surprise when Nicholas heard the curse he was mumbling. While grimacing, Kimberly left the room, she breathed a sigh of relief as she continued to hold her chest. “Just wait for my revenge. One day, I swear, i will make you fall in love with me, Nick.” Kimberly muttered.

Nicholas had just arrived at one of the construction consulting offices because he wanted to talk about an important project his company was working on. In the next few months, there are indeed so many deadlines that he must complete. Not to mention the cooperation agreement between big investors, which he also has to rereview. That's why he needs a personal assistant who can help arrange all his agendas and.

"Previously, we had a meeting with Mr. Jacob Grey in London. According to him, the planning and implementation of the Royal Penthouse expansion project should be reviewed by Mr. Nicholas first."

Nicholas listened. His fingers seemed to caress his chin and even his head was seen nodding a few times. From the look in his eyes, it can be seen that he is serious about what the other person is explaining, as if he wants to avoid missing any of the information given.

"In that case, the day after tomorrow, we will start observing the location of the construction project. Please contact the development team so that tomorrow's briefing will be at the office at around 11 am. Don't forget to prepare all the analysis files regarding the environmental impact.”

The man in front of Nicholas nodded in understanding, shook hands with each other, and then excused himself to leave Nicholas, who was still sitting, enjoying his coffee.

“Have you noted all we talked about earlier?”

Kimberly nodded. “Yes, Sir, I have documented all you proposed for. This afternoon, I will send it to your email,” Kimberly replied.

Nicholas then stand from his sitting position. He glanced at his watch and then spoke. “Then let's move.”

Kimberly also followed where her boss walked. Driving the car at a moderate speed, this day they stopped at a restaurant on the outskirts of town. Kimberly thought that after the meeting was over, Nicholas would return to the office. Because, as she had, his chief wasn't the type to waste time on things that weren't relevant. But the man brought Kimberly with him to stop early.

Still, with confused eyes, Kimgerly got out of the car. Many questions were swirling in her notice. But she didn't dare tell it.

"Why are you mute?” Nicholas called for as they entered a restaurant. "Quickly, sit down and order your food,” the man ordered.

However, Kimberly remained silent in her stand and didn't have long to answer, “I think we'll go straight back to the office.”

Nicholas reached for a glass of orange juice that was served in front of him. Get a sip of the drink first. Then soon the man chuckled at his assistant.

Swear to God! This was the early time Kimberly saw Nicholas smiling. In her heart, she jumped with joy because once again, everyone realized Nicholas was a cold man. Never laughing, he never glanced at the employees who passed him.

"You think I'm a cruel boss?"

Natalia just nodded without answering Nicholas's words. Then they both ate in silence. Neither of them started a conversation. Then someone's presence disturbed the peace of both of them.

“I guess God destined us to meet again, Kimberly Ryder. I struggled to find you. It turns out that we met here.”

Both Nicholas and Kimberly's eyes stared at the source of the voice in unison. Moreover, Kimberly was very surprised to see the figure of the man in front of her. The personality that had been avoiding this. Laughing, the man spoke repeatedly.

"Is she your new partner?” He asked to Kimberly.

Nicholas was silent for a moment, watching the movements of the man in front of him.

"Marco! Wish don't disturb my peace!” Kimberly tried to keep herself calm. “We're done. So, I hope you go out of my sight now!” the woman ordered with a displeased expression. But the man in front of him still ignored his criticisms.

"Don't think that because you already have a new boyfriend, your problem with me is over.” The man laughed sarcastically. "It's not that easy, Kimberly Rayder. Remember! It's not that easy."

When Marco's hand wanted to touch Kimberly's face, Nicholas pushed it away. Smiling, Nicholas spoke firmly. “Please don't disturb my lunch, dude. No matter what your problem is. If you two want to argue, please settle it outside!"

Marco chuckled, annoyed at Nicholas's comments. “You should think twice about defending the woman next to you."

Nicholas screamed until his shoulders lifted. “I doubt that's any of your problem. You'd better go out of here before I summon the restaurant to kick you out!”

Marco glared at Nicholas and Kimberly. “Just wait your time, Nath. I'll make clear you pay for your treatment today.”

Then Marco left as he reached for the cellphone in his pocket and showed like he was calling someone. “I've found it.”

After making the man who was bothering him left, Nicholas returned to continue his lunch activities until it was finished. Act was nothing happened. In contrast to Kimberly who remained silent while looking at Nicholas's face that was so calm. Feeling noticed by the woman in front of him, Nicholas talked again. “I know if my face is handsome. So, there's no need to look at me like that,” said Nicholas with a straight face.

Kimberly grimaced, then pursed her lips after hearing Nicholas's opinions. She was unaware that his boss had such high selfconfidence. “Are you always confident like this?”

Nicholas glanced at Kimberly's face, did not answer but moved from his seat, leaving Kimberly who was still silent with a confused face.

"Mr. Nicholas, wait for me!” Kimberly shrieked in annoyance as she jogged after Nicholas's steps, who had already entered the car.

Nicholas looked serious, reviewing some documents stacked on his desk. His eyes were busy probing, had nodding and then directing the pen he was holding his signature on some papers he was seeing.

"Am I bothering you?”

A man is seen entering the room. Without being invited, the man with a large stature sat on the chair, which was located right in front of Nicholas.

"What do you see?" asked Nicholas with a straight face.

"For God's sake, I miss you, Nick."

"Edward Anthony, do you need to die?!”

Edward laughed at his best friend's answer. A moment later, the man smiled and then chuckled.

"I came from London, and you didn't greet me one bit, Nick?"

Nicholas snorted in annoyance, then said, “Nonsense, Ed.”

Edward grimaced. “If only Jacob didn't force me, I still don't need to bother coming to LA. Do you think that the LondonLos Angeled distance is close? What project needs to be completed so that I should be involved?”

Nicholas closed the file he was seeing, his gaze now turned to the man sitting in facade of him. “Jacob is forcing you. Out of the three of us, we know you to be the choicest at handling with investors. That's why your presence is needed, considering that Alma, who handles cases like this, can't take part. Therefore, I hope you can cooperate."

Jacob, Nicholas, and Edward have been friends since their college days in England. Edward himself, who is a master in business, has the skills to analyze the profitability of a project and is too excellent at consulting. He can also convince clients, just as Alma Grey often does. That's why Jacob asked Edward to help Nicholas handle some projects that AlpaBeta was handling in the future.

Edward responded in understanding. “So while in LA, I will be your subordinate? Or your office partner?”

Nicholas took a deep breath. “Well ... it's up to you what you think you are. The Company pays for what you do afterward.”

After that, there was a knock on the door and Natalia entered with a document in her hand.

"This is a work agreement document from the Royal Group, sir. You can check it first. And below it is an invitation to dinner from Namsan Holding, Korea,” responded Kimberly.

Nicholas's hand reached out to accept the documents and invitation Kimberly had given him. "There are some documents that I have signed. You can bring them right away,” replied Nicholas, pointing to the pile of documents on the guest table.

Kimberly reacted, then moved to leave the room. “Ah, ya, Kimmy,"

Kimberly stopped when Nicholas called her name again. A minute later, he turned around and looked at Nicholasd's face.

"Please make a drink for my partner."

"Okay, Sir."

Not long after, Kimber came back in with a tray containing two cups of coffee Nicholas ordered. The woman served it on the table. Edward didn't move his gaze to Kimberly. The man seemed to be transfixed by what he was looking at the moment.

"You're Nicholas's private assistant?”

Kimberly nodded. “Yes, mister"

"Just call me Edward. Ah yes, my full name is Eduardo Anthony," the man interrupted as he extended his hand for a handshake.

Looking at his best friend's behavior, Nicholas leaned forward and rebuffed Edward's outstretched hand, causing Kimberly to chuckle at the sight.

"Oh come on, Nick, I just wanted to know your assistant!” Edward protested.

Nicholas chuckled then waved his hand, telling Kimberly to go out of his study.

"Don't bother my assistant, Ed!”

"Your assistant is beautiful, Nick."

"Yes, She's only been my assistant for the past month replacing Sandra, the woman you've seen before."

Edward nodded, still holding up his espresso cup. "You're good at choosing an assistant. I'm confident you can fall in love with him.”

Nicholas shook his head.

"No, that's very unlikely. I never thought about having an affair with my coworkers, especially my assistant. Such a relation interferes with work professionalism.”

Edward sneered. “Are you sure that's your only reason? Isn't it because you haven't been able to ignore Briana?”

Nicholas just stared at Edward for a moment, then closed his eyes. He hated to admit it,, but Edward was right that he couldn't forget Briana, even though she betrayed him.

“How long are you going to shut yourself up, Nick? You and Jacob are just as bad at women.”

Nicholas glared at Edward. “You mean? Please say it louder, Ed! I really dont understand what you mean.

Edward smiled. “I mean… it's useless. You both are rich and have handsome faces but are not used. properly, you better donate it to people in need. Instead of wasting it,” Edward said with emphasis.

It was already six o'clock in the afternoon, but Nicholas still seemed to be busy struggling with the rest of the documents on his desk. A little hesitant, Kimberly stepped in after knocking on the door of her new boss's office.

"Mr. Nicholas, I have finished all the paperwork and agenda for today. Is there anything else I need to do? If not, I'll take my leave.”

Nicholas averted his gaze. “Please bring me a cup of coffee first, then you can go home."

Kimberly nodded, then walked to the pantry to brew coffee and then served it at Nicholas's desk.

"If there's nothing else, I'll go home. Mister should also hurry home, won't there be an invitation to dinner at the Marigold Hotel at eight o'clock?" Komberly tried to remind.

Nicholas patted his forehead. He almost forgot that tonight he had a dinner invitation from one of his company partners.

"Then you hurry home and change clothes. Later, my driver will pick you up. Then we'll go together to dinner."

"Go with me?" asked Kimberly to be certain.

"No, with Taylor Swift!”

"Huh? So, Mr. Nicholas is friends with Taylor Swift?” Nicholas exhaled. The behavior of Kimberly almost frustrated him, who did not understand or pretended to be stupid with the orders he gave. “Kimberly!” Nicholas raised his voice.

"Yyes, fine Sir.”

Arrived at home, Kimberly looks worried about choosing what costumes to put on for the ceremony soon. Keep in mind, this is a business dinner, of course. There are many great people there, and it's Kimberly's first experience going to an exclusive event.

She put on his heels, rushing, and then went to the car that was parked in front of her home. There, Randy, Nicholas's driver, was already waiting for him.

"I thought the boss was getting with you, Ran?” Kimberly asked after sitting her body in the passenger seat right next to Randy.

Randy grimaced. “How could Mr. Nicholas go to the trouble of getting to pick you up. Don't feel like a princess." Randy teased as he drove the car to pick up Nicholas, who was awaiting at the office.

Kimberly looked annoyed at Randy's taunt, but what she said was true. It is unlikely that Nicholas, who is a CEO, would even bother to take up an ordinary employee like him. They arrived at the lobby of the AlpaBeta Corporations building. There, Nicholas was already seen talking on his phone. There was silence in the venue. Nicholas himself was busy with the cell phone he was holding.

"Mr. Nicholas, an honor to have you here tonight.” Welcome, Mr. Park Seo Joon, an intermediateaged Korean man who is none other than the owner of Namsan Group and the organizer of tonight's event.

Nicholas smiled at Mr. Seo. "I am honored to be invited by a great person like you."

Mr.Seo smiled as he took a sip of the wine in his hand. "Is this your wife?" Mr. Seo's gaze shifted. He gave Kimberly a warm smile, who was standing right beside Nicholas.

Nicholas laughed again. “She's my partner, sir.”

Mr. Seo nodded. "You guys look great tonight, your partner is gorgeous.”

Kimberly's face turned red. She just didn't expect that the owner of this event would recognize her, the spouse of the bitter man beside her. Did she look so beautiful tonight that other people even considered her the spouse of a CEO of AlpaBeta Corporations?

"Thank you,” Nicholas replied.

"Please enjoy the party, I will greet the other guests.”

After Mr. Seo's move, Nicholas averted his gaze, he seemed to be paying attention to Kimberly's appearance and then greeted his head as if hes was assessing something. “You look pretty good tonight, to where even middleaged men are interested in seeing you.”

Kimberly smiled. “Yes though your words sound so ambiguous, I believe it a compliment, Sir.”

Nicholas chuckled until he shrugged his shoulders at what his assistant said.

“Hmmm ... fine.” then Nicholas again continued to walk around to the other guests, while Kimberly followed where Nicholas was going.

“I told you it indeed destined us, Kimberly Ryder.” a baritone voice interrupted Kimberly's thoughts. With a lazy face, Kimberly answered the greeting of the man standing in front of her.

"Don't be too confident, Marco!”

Marco put on a mocking look. “Remember, we're not done yet!”

"We have nothing to do anymore, so stop bothering me. Aren't you tired of making trouble with me all the time?”

Marco shook his head. “Don't think me to hold before you come back. Am I not being sympathetic enough not to bring you to your Grandpa?”

"Who do you mean, being sympathetic?” Nicholas appeared on the sidelines of the feud between Kimbery and Marco.

Marco smiled at Nicholas. “You don't require having the business between the two of us, Mr. Alistair!” “Oh yeah? But I'm sorry you're disturbing my girl tonight, so I may interfere, regardless of what Kimberly is!”

Kimberly was surprised to hear Nicholas's words. She didn't suppose Nicholas say such a thing to Marco, who he didn't realize. Not much different from Kimberly, Marco also felt the same way when he saw Nicholas talking a lot more, unlike their previous meeting at the restaurant the other day when Nicholas was silent and just watching.

Marco was stunned for a moment, but adjusted his expression to normal. He just didn't want to hear Nicholas take advantage of his surprise. “So you are now acting as his guardian angel?” Marco pouted as he glared at Nicholas.

"I can be more than just a guardian angel, you think. And I don't think you require talking to my girl anymore!”

Nicholas grabbed Natalia's wrist, leading her away from the Ballroom to the hotel lobby.

"Thank you, Mr. Nicholas," Kimberly said as she and Nicholas were waiting for the car in the hotel lobby.

Nicholas stared at Kimherly for a moment, then turned his gaze back. “No demand to praise me, and you don't require being overconfident, anyway. I just don't like seeing women being abused by a man."

Kimberly nodded. She was too tired to argue with her boss.

Kimberly smoothed her auburn brown hair from behind the office toilet mirror before going up to the fifteenth floor where her room was. After feeling her appearance perfect, she stepped into the elevator.

However, before the elevator doors closed, Nicholas and Edward are getting into it. As usual, Nicholas, who said hello, just looked silent. Unlike Edward, who greeted Kimberly.

"Your coat is perfect, it must be a closeknown brand.” The words just slipped out of Edward's mouth. Kimberly knew that the Scottishblooded man was now in the position of chief director of the planning division. Although many say he is a Playboy, it proved the gentleman to do all his jobs well. In addition, for the size of a boss, Edward is also friendly so that the other workers are reluctant and respect him even though he is still new to AlpaBeta.

Kimberly turned and smiled at Edward. “This is just a regular brand Coat, Sir. Maybe because I'm gorgeous, all the clothes I know look luxurious,” Kimberly replied.

Kimberly wasn't saying nonsense. She is stunning. Slender, tall stature, brown hair, slanted eyes. The ideal combination that often makes men stare in amazement.

Hearing Kimberly's answer, which is quite confident, Edward, of course, laughed. According to him, Nicholas's assistant is a unique woman, sociable, and welcome to anyone. If out there, many women maintain the image to see superb, unlike Kimberly. He always acts as he is.

"Yes, I agree. You are indeed a great assistant. If you weren't pretty, how could Nicholas have chosen you? Isn't that right, Mr. Nicholas?” Edward suggested, glancing at Nicholas. While the man who was called for just remained expressionless. “By the way, how do you feel about being Nicholas' assistant? Are you comfortable? Because if you don't like it, you can move with me when I get back to England.” Edward asked Kimberly.

Kimberly smiled before answering. “As everyone knows, Mr. Nicholas is too stiff as snow, Sir. But never mind, I will remain loyal to be his assistant.” Kimberly whispered, then blinked.

Just as the elevator doors opened, the girl nodded her head. Then he just walked out, leaving Edward, who was even laughing at Kimberly's words, which were sarcastic with Nicholas. “What do you think?” Edward asked when they were inside Nicholas' study. “What does your question mean?” Nicholas proposed, turning on the minicomputer on his desk.

"Your assistant, how is it? You're not the least bit excited in him?”

Still staring at the graphic display from his workstation, Nicholas then answered. “I told you, I'm not concerned in a romantic relationship in the office, Ed."

Edward laughed this time at Nicholas' answer. "Oh, come on, Nick. Are you normal or not? If you prefer not to come forward, then I'll be the one chasing Kimberly. Too bad a girl like that is left alone.”

Normal? Nicholas was an ordinary guy. But not a few employees at the office accuse him of being gay because he has never held or brought a girl with him. In Los Angeles itself, the only girl he'd ever spoken to was Alma, Jacob's wife.

Nicholas then turned his gaze to Edward. “They called you to LA to carry out or to chase women? Jacob would be mad if he knew you were acting like this.”

Edward raised his hands in the air. “Okay… fine, I'll go back to duty. But if I may suggest that you are confused about finding a companion, you better pay recognition to your assistant. For some reason, I believe she's a different girl.” Edward got up from his seat, leaving Nicholas, who indeed looked serious about his job.

Not long after, there was another knock on the door. Kimberly was seen reentering with some files in her hand. "Sir, This some document are"

"Just lay it on the table. Thereafter, please come out,” Nicholas interrupted without even turning to look at the person he was talking to.

"Okay, Sir,” said Kimberly with an annoyed face.

"I prefer not to throw myself in the same hole. Remember, Nicholas, girls are dangerous species. Have you seen Jacob? Sometimes he cries, once he laughs, once even acts like a madman just because of a girl. Do you prefer that? Convinced?”

Nicholas just kept talking to himself. As bad as that was, the effect of the hurt he felt, so he dictated to himself that girls were creatures to be wary of. Even now, he doesn't care what people think of him. According to him, those who make fun of him don't indeed understand how painful it is to be betrayed.

The finance's room looked full when Kimberly stopped by to visit her friends Keyra and Alex there. The male and female employees were seen clustered closely, discussing something.

"What are they talking about? Why does it sound so overcrowded?” asked Kimberly, who was sitting next to her best friend's desk?

"They must discuss popular gossip on television,” said Keyra, who was eating her lunch.

"How have you been these two months, Kimmy?” suggested Alex, who had just arrived, and asked questions.

While Kimberly seemed to raise an eyebrow. “What does your question mean?”

"Yes, how is your relationship with Mr. Nicholas going. Has the guy fell in love with you?”

Kimberly shook her head, then put on a sad face. “Looks like our chief is terrible to beat.” Alex and Keyra laughed together at the expression Kimberly showed.

"I already warned you that Mr. Nicholas is a hard man to look at. You're the one who insisted on trying to be his girlfriend. Your dreams are too high, Kimmy!” Alex scoffed again. “I'm not a dream, Lex. But I felt confident that we can make our boss like me. After all, it's still the beginning.” “You are too confident. Beware, you will be punished if you fail," replied Alex warning.

"If you want to avoid seeing me break, please help me get our one boss," said Kimberly.

While sipping the drink in the face of him, Keyra joined in the conversation. “Alex and I are just spectators, which doesn't suffer if Mr. Nicholas still rejects you in the end.”

"Don't worry, I won't give up. We'll look at, in the end, he will fall in love with me. How can a woman as beautiful as me not be able to attract Mr. Nicholas's heart?” Kimberly replied.

"Can I help you, Mister?”

Nicholas was hushed for a moment before the guy answered. “Your place is next door. Then, what are you doing here?”

Kimberly fell silent. She forgot it was a day for a break from work. Of course, Nicholas questioned himself, sounding like an employee on his way backward and forth. “I had lunch here, Sir,” Kimberly replied with a worried look on her face.

"Hurry back to your place, don't forget that soon we have to go to the archive building in the north tower,” Nicholas ordered, responding to a nod from Kimberly.

Kimberly reminded Nicholas to hurry back to the central building. “Sir, it's sixseven. We'd better head back to the central building because the lights aren't lit here. This could make it difficult for us to get out of the construction.”

Nicholas, who was still talking to one of the project supervisors, nodded his head after hearing Kimberly's words. Not long after, they went down to the first floor. On his way to the first floor, the electricity in the archive building went out. It was, of course, very dark. Kimberly, who realized that, screamed, then grabbed Nicholas's hand and hugged Nicholas.

Nicholas was surprised by the attitude of Kimberly, who hugged his body. She was sure that his asisstant was very frightened. Still in a hug position, Nicholas tried to reach the cellphone in his pants pocket and turned it on.

"Hey, Kimberly. Look at me!” asked Nichols, trying to loosen Kimberly's arms.

Kimberly herself still closed her views. He didn't care what Nicholas ordered him to do. That's why Nicholas then took the courage to grab Kimberly's chin and lifted his face so as not to look down again. "Kimmy. Don't be scared, I'm here. I promise to get you out of here. Open your eyes, it's not as dark as you think it is," Nicholas cooed.

Kimberly opened her eyes. Looking around, then realized that the room wasn't as dark as before. This was all thanks to the lighting from the cell phone held by Nicholas. Seeing Kimberly, who was still afraid to have a step, Nicholas looked at Kimberly's face. Once again reassured his assistant not to be scared. “Don't be scared, I'll get you out. Now just follow my steps.”

Nicholas gripped Kimberly's hand, which was wet from the cold sweat pouring down her body. The woman looked scared. According to Nicholas, maybe his secretary has a phobia of the dark. He couldn't draw any conclusions yet.

Kimberly followed Nicholas, who walked forward. Descending the emergency stairs one by one, they arrived at the first floor. “We've landed. Wait a minute, I'll call security to start the generator engine,” Nicholas said to Kimberly, who was still standing next to him. Nicholas had just finished contacting the security guards. Suddenly, Kimberly fell unconscious. Nicholas tried to wake Kimberly. Fearing something might happen, Nicholas took Kimberly to the hospital.

"So how's Kimberly condition, Sir?” Nicholas called for the man in front of him.

“Is she your girlfriend?" Before Nicholas answered, the doctor spoke again. “Your girlfriend has indicated nyctophobia, Sir."

Nicholas frowned. He seemed strange to hear what the doctor had just told. “Can you explain what you mean just now?”

"Can it cure this?" Nicholas asked again.

While writing the recipe, the doctor talks to him. "I suggest your lover do therapy. Because excessive fear of the dark can make people with phobias feel depressed and uncomfortable. Dark phobias can even cause a person to experience insomnia and seriously interfere with mental health."

Nicholas gasped at the doctor's explanation this time. He didn't expect that the woman, who had been looking so cheerful and brave in front of him, had such a high level of fear.

"This is a recipe that you must exchange for your girlfriend, I hope Miss Kimberly can come to her senses and recover from her illness.” Nicholas nodded and then grabbed the paper containing the doctor's prescription.

Meanwhile, on the bed, Kimberly blinked. Trying to muster up her strength just to open her eyes. When her eyes were opened, she looked confused. There was something unusual about what she was seeing immediately.

"Where am I?"

"This isn't my room, is it?"

That was the first question that popped into Kimberly's mind. Because when she opened her eyes, it fixed her gaze on a room dominated by a distinctive white color. Seen near to where he lay, there were several medical types of equipment, such as oxygen panels, infusion poles, and a portable dining table vacuum. This is part of a hospital area.

Not to mention the curiosity in her head, a man he knew very well came in and approached her. “Are you awake? How are you feeling?" The question was the first to be heard. There was an accompanying worry in his deep voice.

Kimberly nodded. “I guess I'm getting better. Sorry if I've bothered you. I'd better move home now.” Kimberly then straightened herself. She tried to get up from her sleeping position.

Seeing the young woman in front of him who forced herself to get up, Nicholas leaned forward. He seemed to try to block the intentions of the young woman in front of him. "Wait! I don't think you're going anywhere. You haven't fully recovered yet." hold, Nicholas.

"But I have to go home, sir. I can't stay here long," Kimberly pleaded.

Nicholas was silent for a moment, considering Kimberly's request to come home. He had no right to forbid her to leave. But somehow, he feels so worry and afraid that at home, what happened to Kimberly before will happen again. But again, Nicholas realized he was nobody to care about too much. After all, what he was doing was only limited to anxiety between a boss and his assistant.

Nicholas could confirm that. "You can't move home yet. Just rest first. For tomorrow, you don't need to work, either. I'll give you a day off until your condition improves."

Kimberly gasped at what Nicholas said. “But, sir” “Stay here for a while, or do you want me kick you from office?”

Good grief! Is that an option? The point sounds the same. If she agreed, she had to stay in the hospital for a while and if he refused, he would have lost his job. Kimberly couldn't help but obey what Nicholas' ordered. One of them also had to faint until his boss took her to the hospital.

"Now just get on with your rest. I have to go home. If you need anything, you can call the nurse or just call me right away.” Kimberly nodded in response. No need to wait long, the hazeleyed man left, leaving the assistant alone in his room.

Early in the morning, Nicholas parked his car in the hospital parking lot. Walking a little hastily, he then arrived in the room where Kimberly was resting. He saw the woman was still fast asleep on the bed. Sneaking a little, Nicholas arrived in and placed the bag containing some fruit and food on the table. After making sure his assistant was okay, Nicholas walked out again, then prepared to go to the office.

Entering his room, the presence of Jacob, who was there, shocked Nicholas. It surprised him that his best friend didn't even know him, he was coming to Los Angeles and stopped by his room.

"Were you surprised by my return?” said Jacob. The man walked closer. Then hugged Nicholas's body. Thereafter, the two of them were seen sitting together on the guest's sofa.

"Since when did you arrive in Los Angeles? Why didn't you tell me first?” Jacob laughed at the annoyed tone of his friend's words. He wanted to surprise Nicholas.

"My arrival wasn't planned. I turned to Los Angeles because Mom asked me to attend her birthday party at this weekend. You know how my Mother is.”

Nicholas gave me an understanding. “Well, I realize Mrs. Luna Grey very closely. Every time she celebrates anything, she always wants all the members to gather.”

Jacob laughed in agreement. “Yeah, that's why I'm here now. Then how was the company? Was there any problem while I was away?”

Nicholas shook his head. “So far, everything is going nicely. Especially after you sent Edward here. At least we can get almost all the big tenders. We are preparing the construction of the largest indoor games complex in America."

Jacob laughed with satisfaction. “I've never been wrong in choosing. Even though you know that one of your best friends is often crazy, at least he's always total in his work."

Not to mention, after the conversation between Nicholas and Jacob, there was a knock on the door once, followed by the entry of a man they had been discussing for a long time. "I'm guessing you guys must be talking about me," the man said. Without being greeted, the man seemed to walk over to the sofa and sat down next to Jacob.

Jacob laughed at Edward's comments.

"You've always been confident.”

"Sorry, I'm a beginner and still learning. Instead of confidence, Nicholas and I learn from you, young master Jacob?”

This time, Jacob couldn't hold back his laughter at Edward's comments. Of the three of them, they knew Edward to be the smartest in joking and communicating. That's why many women out there fall in love with all his seduction. Even, his prowess is also influential in convincing investors to cooperate.

"By the way, where's Kimberly? I haven't seen her in a while?”

"Whether Kimberly is in her room, that's none of your business, Ed,” Nicholas responded flatly.

Jacob, who did not understand, then, frowned. “Kimberly? Who is Kimberly?” he asked, confused. “Nicholas's new assistant, an employee in the planning division. Too bad, before I moved here, Nicholas had already pulled her into an assistant. Otherwise, she might be my assistant,” Edward responded with a meaningful smile.

Nicholas looked straight at Edward. “Stop teasing her, Ed. I told you not to bother my assistant."

"Oh come on, Nicholas, I warned you. If you don't show up forward, I'll be the one approaching Kimberly.”

"Wait a minute!” cut off Jacob. “Don't tell me you two are fighting over a girl? Nick, are you serious this time?”

Nicholas snorted in annoyance at Jacob's question. But before the man could refute Jacob's words, from behind the door, a beautiful woman entered who was holding a toddler boy. "Am I interrupting your conversation?" the woman asked as she walked in.

"Alma, I miss you so much."

Nicholas stand from his seat and spread his arms, intending to hug the woman who was now walking toward him.

"You think I don't miss you? I'm bored in London just looking at Kiano's face!" Alma chuckles, feeling annoyed. Nicholas laughed at Alma's words. Then the man reached out and carried a toddler who was none other than Cristian, Jacob, and Alma's son.

Nicholas' attitude suddenly warmed up when he met Alma Grey. The only woman who was treated specially by him. He always said Alma was different from most women out there. Moreover, Nicholas knows very well how Alma sacrificed when he first had a relationship with Jacob. That was the main reason Nicholas loved Alma like his sister.

"So, how long will you be staying in Los Angeles?" Edward asked.

"Perhaps two weeks, considering that a company in London can't stay around too long, I also can't bear to let Caroline take care of everything herself."

Alma who was still standing near the sofa immediately took out an invitation card from his bag. The woman then handed the invitation to her husband. "This is my mom's birthday invitation. I hope you both come to the party. Don't forget to bring your respective partners," said Jacob.

Nicholas looked at Jacob with a look that was hard to decipher. Realizing this, Jacob spoke again. "If you're close to your assistant, you can bring her along, Nick. It wouldn't hurt to introduce her to the rest of us."

Edward laughed at Jacob's words. It was clear the man was challenging Nicholas to bring a woman to his mother's birthday party. The man thought this must be very interesting. Will Nicholas later accept the challenge? Or still insist on going alone.

"What is certain is that if you come alone, please let me know, Nick. That means I will be the one who will come forward to invite Kimberly to come together at Aunt Luna's birthday."

Before Nicholas could answer, Jacob took over the conversation. "I don't care about your rivalry, definitely I look forward to you two. Then, my wife and I say goodbye to go home first. See you next time.”

Edward also followed in the footsteps of Jacob and Alma, who walked out of the room. While Nicholas sat for a moment, then took a huffy breath. Sometimes Jacob would challenge him to bring his secretary with him to his mother's birthday party.

Speaking of Kimberly, Nicholas only realized that it was already noon. That means it's already lunchtime. The man quickly rushed to the parking lot and steered his vehicle towards the hospital. He just wanted to make sure she had eaten her lunch or not. I don't know why he cares so much about his secretary's current state. This is only a matter of concern between boss and assistant.

"I'm pretty sure it means nothing more than that. This is pure humanity. Isn't that right, Nicholas?"

Along the way, Nicholas kept on convincing himself until, without realizing his car had arrived at the hospital yard. It didn't take long for Nicholas to arrive in the room where Kimberly was being treated. However, when he got there, Nicholas did not find Kimberly. The room looked clean, as if no one was occupying it.

Confused, the man pointed his feet towards the hospital reception room. "Excuse me, may I know where the VIP room patient Kimberly Ryder is?" Nicholas asked the nurse.

The nurse smiled and then answered. “The VIP room patient Kimberly left a few hours ago, sir."

"Already out? Have you got the doctor's approval on duty?" asked Nicholas in disbelief.

The nurse nodded. "The patient had been examined. The doctor stated that his condition had improved, so the case went home.”

"Okay, thanks for the information."

After hearing the nurse's explanation, Nicholas returned to his office. As soon as Nicholas arrived at the building, just before he came in the elevator, the man bumped into Keyra and Alex. They both seemed to have just returned from the cafeteria.

"Key, can you come to my room for a moment?" Nicholas asked.

Keyra and Alex were stunned at the same moment. During her lifetime working at Pandora, Keyra she had come in the CEO's office several times to ask for approval signatures. However, when asked by the owner of the room, this was the first time.

"All right, sir." Keyra and Alex took a different lift from Nicholas. After arriving at the fifteenth floor, she headed for the CEO's office.

"Please have a seat," Nicholas begged when she was already in the room. Timidly, she sat herself down in the chair opposite Nicholas.

"You realize where Kimberly's house is?" Keyra looked up, looking at Richard in disbelief.

"Why? Is there something wrong with my question?" Nicholas asked again. Keyra shook her head many times. She was just confused why her boss, who was cold, asked for the address of her best friend's house.

Did they have something, she thought at the time. "Excuse me, mister. I didn't mean it that way. If it's the Kimberly house, I know. I can tell you."

Nicholas nodded briefly then asked again. "What about a cell phone number? Do you have one?"

This time, Keyra smiled even more. It didn't go unnoticed by Nicholas. It made the man a little embarrassed. "Don't think like that, I have work to tell her. While the cellphone number registered with the company appears to be inactive. Who knows Kimberly has another number," said the man, making Keyra smile amused.

“It's ok, sir. Even if there's something wrong, it's not a problem for me either. Kimberly has two cellphone numbers. One is for work and the other is for personal use," explained the girl. “For your information, Kimberly is a good girl. Even in the previous division, many male employees liked her. If mister doesn't hurry. I can't guarantee that your secretary will continue to be available,” said Keyra.

I don't know where that courage came from, so Keyra heated her famously could boss. In his heart, she was smiling with satisfaction, at seeing the expression on Nicholas. The look on his face was a sign of vigilance.

"I don't care whether he likes it or not. It's none of my business. Right now, I just need her home address and personal cell phone number."

Nicholas could have asked Randy, the driver, for Kimber's home address. It's just that the driver doesn't have the woman's cell phone number. Instead of working twice, he'd better ask Keyra, who is Kimberly's best friend.

Keyra looked at Nicholas, as if doubting what his boss had said. To make Nicholas look awkward again. Keyra wanted to laugh with satisfaction in front of her boss. But for professionalism, the woman just nodded. "Okay, I'll write Kimberly's exact address and cell phone number." After writing what Nicholas aksed for on a piece of paper, Keyra told goodbye to leave the room.

"For God's sake, Nicholas! Am I crazy to ask the address and mobile number of a girl?"

The wind blew through the gap in the wooden windows. The light of the sun that was bright has today turned gloomy, showing that the day is turning into night. From time to time, the fear, and anxiety that had arisen from previous events still felt terrible.

Wind, can't you take all these haunting feelings with you? While staring at the ceiling of the room, Kimberly recalled the memory of what had happened a dozen years ago. At that time, she and her mother had to be trapped in a room when a big fire was engulfing their house.

"Mom, it's dark. Kimmy's scared. Are we both going to die?" Kimberly wept in terror.

Kimberly's mom cupped her daughter's face with both hands. “Look at Mama, honey,” Kimberly's mom begged. “We'll both be safe. Now Kimmy is praying that the firefighters come to our aid soon.”

Kimberly nodded after hearing her mother's words. Not long after, they heard a scream from outside the window from the rescue workers. There was a feeling of relief accompanying both of them. However, before being rescued, the wall of the room that was sturdy collapsed and fell on the mom and child. After that, everything turned dark.

As Kimberly recalled, when she opened her eyes, she was already in the hospital after being in a coma for several days. Not only that, Kimberly also had to accept the fact that her mom had passed away. Serious burns from protecting Kimberly from falling walls, the main cause of her mother's death. Kimberly wiped her tears that fell without her asking. When she recalled the incident, her chest felt uncomfortable. It's been ten years, but it still feels the same. Hurtful.

Still clutching her tight chest, the sound of her cell phone ringing distracted her. Look at the name that appears behind the screen, Keyra's name is printed there.

"Hello..."

"Kimmy!" Shouted the woman on the other side.

Kimberly moved the phone off from her ear. “Key! I'm not deaf. So please don't scream like crazy!”

Keira laughed on the other side. “Sorry, I just wanted to ask how you're doing? Are you feeling good?”

Kimberly took a deep breath. “It's much better, tomorrow I work again as usual.”

"Thank God, I'm sorry that Alex and I haven't had the chance to visit you yet. By the way, I have big information."

Kimberly's face looked enthusiastic. “What important information?" She asked curiously.

"You want to know?" asked Keyra playing with Kimberly's feelings.

"Key! I'm serious."

Keyra was heard laughing again, but not long after she spoke again. "Mr. Nicholas asked me to give you your cell phone number."

"Then?"

"I gave him what he requested for. He seemed to be worried about why you didn't turn to work. By the way, did Mr. Nicholas not realize that you were sick?” she asked.

Ah, you just don't know that it was Mr.Nicholas who took me to the hospital.

Keyra and Alex previously had time to ask about Kimberly, who didn't come to the office. The woman only gave an excuse for not coming to work because she wasn't feeling well. Neither of his two friends knew that Kimberly was brought by Nicholas to the hospital because he had fainted in the archive building.

"Kimmy, hello. You're still awake, right?" Keyra asked when she found Kimberly, who was silent for a long time.

"Yes, I hear you. Then what else do you want to tell me? Is that all?"

"Yeah, I just needed to know how you were and then just give me that information. Well, rest today, so you can be fresh tomorrow when you turn to work.”

"Don't worry. See you tomorrow at the office," said Kimberly, ending the phone call from Keyra.

Just needed to put the cellphone on the nightstand. Suddenly the flat object rang again. It forced an anonymous number to be picked up. Kimberly touched the green icon on the screen as a sign of receiving a call.

"Hello?"

Silence, there is no answer at all on the other side. Kimberly was confused about whether the call was disconnected. Kimberly waited long enough. Until she felt no one answered, the woman ended the call.

However, just as he was about to press the red mark, a deep male voice sounded out there.

"Can you move out? I'm in front of your house now."