A meeting with Mr. Ice

Matilda stared at the computer in Cedric's room and sat down immediately, looking around to check that no one was coming. She took the mouse and began to click on some sites. Her fingers danced on the keyboard, and she emerged on the site she had been working on so much that she wasn't aware when Cedric walked into the room. 

At one point, she began to hiss and tie up her hair. Cedric let out a small smile and knew she was worked up with whatever she was seeing on the screen.

"What's the serious coding for?" he thought, and dropped his bag on the bed. She wasn't still aware that he had come into the room.

She began to mutter some words in her mother tongue, and Cedric smiled, even though he couldn't understand what she was saying. All he knew was that she was angry.

The clicking of the mouse continued, and the typing persisted on the keyboard. Cedric knew she wouldn't turn around anytime soon, so he took off his shoes and lay on the bed to sleep.

"Talk to me, Reuben. What really happened with Singh? Why can't I get into their server?"

Cedric's eyes shot open when he heard that. She was wearing his headphones, and her neck was resting on the armrest of the chair.

"What do you mean by that? How is Singh dead?! I have to clear my name, Reuben. You have to believe me! I didn't attempt to assassinate our president. Why would I even do that?" Matilda puffed.

"I know you can't believe me because I hacked your ex-girlfriend's phone to read your messages. I already apologized for that, Reuben. I didn't know that you were really with her after breaking up with me. I thought you were playing around to make me jealous," Matilda pouted.

"Whatever. I've created the app you begged me to make for your students. It'll help them with their studies. I've been working on it since I was in India, so I just perfected it over here," Matilda said and swung around on the chair.

She froze when she saw Cedric staring at her on the bed.

She removed the headphones from her ears and blocked the screen of the computer immediately. "I'm dead," she said to herself and gulped.

"I-I-I was just-just doing some homework," Matilda laughed nervously.

Cedric just nodded and looked at her. He didn't ask her any questions, but she was answering him.

"Are you done?" he asked her.

"Uhm, yeah," Matilda got up from the chair and returned the headphones to their place. She also refreshed the computer after clearing the sites.

"Was that your ex-boyfriend?" Cedric asked when she attempted to leave.

"Oh, yes! I'm sorry that I didn't realize you were there," Matilda apologized.

"Why? You wanted me to leave for you to speak to him more?" Cedric asked.

"No! Of course not," Matilda waved her hands.

"I just...we were talking about business. I helped him with an app for his students."

"He's a teacher?" Cedric raised his brow.

"No. He's a professor, so he asked me to make an app for his students," Matilda replied.

"So, what about the app? You didn't ask for permission before you sat there to make an app. How did you do that so fast?" Cedric was amazed.

"It's just my skill. I was working on it in India too," she answered.

"So, how much did you collect from him?" Cedric asked. He wanted to know her worth so badly.

"Just a few thousand dollars," Matilda shrugged.

"How much?" Cedric didn't want to guess the amount she told him.

"Five thousand dollars. He's my ex, but we're still close," she smiled.

"You silly fool," Cedric thought.

"What are you up to?" he asked and sat up.

"Me? Nothing. I've been eating all day and reading some novels Abi recommended to me. Do you know that she's a big chef on TikTok?" Matilda widened her eyes in excitement.

"Her food looks so good, even though I can't eat it," Matilda commented.

"Ask her to make some for you since you want some," Cedric replied.

"I don't think Leo would want me to be with her. We're not on good terms, remember?" Matilda pouted.

"I can help you meet her since he's away," Cedric said with a smile.

"Really?" Matilda was already thinking of all the fun she would have when she met Abi. Abi had told her that they would have fun with her friends the next time they met.

"I thought you went for business. What's with the casual clothes?" Matilda asked him. He was wearing a simple shirt and a hoodie with joggers.

"I can wear whatever I want. Do you find me attractive in this for you to notice the way I dress?" Cedric teased her.

"Of course not!" Matilda responded quickly.

"You're not my type at all, so I can't fall for you," she added.

"What's your type?" Cedric questioned immediately, with a frown.

"Huh?" Matilda asked.

"I asked what your type is. I want to know what you want in a guy. Your red flags," Cedric responded.

Matilda swallowed her spit as a blush crept onto her cheeks. She quickly averted his gaze and began to speak softly.

***

Abi sat down on one of the iron chairs placed in the hallways of the hospital and began to ponder on the discussion she had with Dr. Lee concerning her checkup. She had settled into the plush chair, nervously fidgeting with her hands.

The doctor was a young man, so Abi spoke to him freely. They were age-mates, and his name was Dr. Lee. He entered the room with a warm smile on his face.

"Hey, Abi! Congratulations on your pregnancy!" Dr. Lee exclaimed.

Abi smiled, still feeling surreal. "Thanks, Doc. It's still sinking in."

Dr. Lee nodded. "I can imagine. Let's get started."

The nurse took Abi's vitals while Dr. Lee reviewed her chart.

"How are you feeling?" Dr. Lee asked.

Abi hesitated. "Tired, nauseous...and emotional."

Dr. Lee nodded sympathetically. "Classic first-trimester symptoms. We'll get through this together."

Dr. Lee performed a gentle physical exam, discussing Abi's medical history and lifestyle.

"Have you noticed any spotting or cramping?" Dr. Lee asked.

Abi shook her head. "Just some mild cramping."

Dr. Lee reassured her. "That's normal. Your body is adjusting to the pregnancy."

Abi mentioned her concerns about morning sickness. Dr. Lee offered tips on managing nausea.

"Try ginger tea, crackers, and small meals throughout the day," Dr. Lee suggested.

Abi jotted down notes, feeling relieved.

As they discussed prenatal vitamins and nutrition, Abi asked about food cravings.

"Are cravings normal this early?" Abi asked.

Dr. Lee chuckled. "Absolutely! Indulge in moderation."

Abi grinned. "Good to know."

Dr. Lee ordered an ultrasound for the following week.

"We'll confirm the due date and check on the baby's growth," Dr. Lee said.

Abi's eyes sparkled. "I can't wait to see the baby."

Dr. Lee smiled. "You'll love seeing that little heartbeat."

Dr. Lee pointed out the baby's features. "See that tiny heartbeat?"

Tears welled up in Abi's eyes. "This is real," Abi whispered to herself.

"Of course, Abigail. What were you thinking?" The doctor laughed.

Dr. Lee leaned forward, his eyes locked onto Abi's.

"Now, let's discuss prenatal testing options."

Abi nodded, intrigued.

"I've heard of amniocentesis and CVS, but I'm not sure what they entail."

Dr. Lee explained, "Amniocentesis is a test where we withdraw fluid from the amniotic sac to check for genetic abnormalities. CVS, or chorionic villus sampling, involves taking a sample of the placenta."

Abi's eyes widened. "What are the risks?"

Dr. Lee outlined the risks and benefits, emphasizing the importance of informed decision-making.

As they delved deeper into prenatal testing, Abi's mind whirled with questions and concerns.

"Can we discuss breastfeeding?" Abi asked, shifting topics.

Dr. Lee smiled. "Breastfeeding is an excellent way to nourish your baby. We'll provide guidance on latching and positioning."

Abi nodded, eager to learn. "I've heard it can be challenging."

Dr. Lee reassured her. "You'll receive support from our lactation consultants. We'll ensure a smooth transition."

The conversation flowed effortlessly, covering topics from parenting classes to postpartum care.

Abi mentioned her fears about balancing work and motherhood.

Dr. Lee listened attentively. "That's a common concern," Dr. Lee said. "You'll find a rhythm that works for you and your family."

As the meeting approached its conclusion, Dr. Lee summarized the key takeaways.

"Remember, Abi, pregnancy is a journey. We're here to support you every step of the way."

As the appointment concluded, Dr. Lee handed Abi a pamphlet on first-trimester care.

"Call me with any concerns," Dr. Lee said.

"Sure," Abi smiled.

***

PERTH PALACE HOTEL

"...might decide to go under unless they invest in Ino or TryMe this summer. But they've refused to partner with Mr. Santiago due to the recent case,"

Some chefs and their apprentices walked into the room, carrying snacks and refreshments. The staff looked at them, and their mouths watered. They knew it was the boss paying for it, and they were grateful.

"I heard you love eating fried potatoes with roasted fish, Manager Oh," Leo recalled and requested that the chefs serve the man to his satisfaction.

"Thank you for your hospitality, sir," the manager spoke.

"It's not hospitality. It's my way of saying 'thank you'," Leo replied with a small smile.

The people looked at each other as they saw their boss put food on someone else's plate.

"Ah! Don't you like shrimp?" Leo queried and peeled some for the manager.

The manager was surprised by his boss's action but thanked him.

"Why are you looking at me? The food isn't going to eat itself," Leo scolded his staff, who were busy looking at him.

"Thank you, sir," they chorused and continued eating.

"What about you, sir?" one of the shareholders asked.

"Ah! Don't worry, Mr. David. I'm not hungry," Leo replied.

"Continue your presentation, Sandra," Leo said.

"I know you're on a diet, so you can't eat,"

"But, sir—"

"When you're through with your presentation, then," Leo hissed and rolled his eyes at her. She reminded him of his wife, who was also a foodie.

"Thank you, sir," Sandra replied.

"Mr. Choi from M.K.O, Korea, has decided to partner with us on one of our new projects for Beat Drop," Sandra continued.

"When did he reach out to us about his interest?" Leo asked.

"Yesterday, sir," Sandra replied.

Leo laughed briefly and replied, "Tell him that I refuse to accept his offer."

The shareholders shook their heads, looking forward to hearing his reason.

"Why?" Sandra asked with curiosity.

"When are we launching again, Sandra?" Leo asked.

"In four days' time, sir," Sandra replied.

"So, why do I need his money? I've been looking forward to his late partnership since last month, but twenty people have already taken his place. Send him an email that it's too late for his stupid partnership," Leo snapped irritably.

"Okay, sir," Sandra replied.

"Any other issues?" Leo asked, and the shareholders began to raise their hands one after the other.

"Mrs. Go?" Leo spoke.

"I plan to retire in three months' time," the woman announced.

"So?" Leo questioned.

"I plan to hand over my position to my daughter," she added.

"Then?" Leo asked.

"She also studied accounting like me and has a PhD in the course. She's studying to become a professor now," the woman added.

"But?" Leo hissed.

"I don't know if that's okay with you, considering she's pregnant now. She won't have given birth by the time she wants to take over my position," the woman continued.

Leo's cold voice interrupted her sentence.

"Stop being crooked and just come out straight, Mrs. Go. If you want me to remove you from your position, just say so instead of dragging me into your family problems. I didn't get your daughter pregnant, no? Then tell me why I should be lenient with you, keeping the position empty for a while until your daughter can stand on her feet. I can't have the position empty due to your daughter's condition. Let me know when you're ready to retire, so I can put someone in charge since you're overdue for a vacation," Leo spoke coldly.

The woman nodded, quickly changing her mind. She wouldn't retire until her daughter gave birth, allowing her to take over her position peacefully and continue earning.

Leo listened to the shareholders as they spoke one after the other. He would be in Australia for three weeks, overseeing things himself and determining what needed to be done.

"Give me the review people have given Manager Oh from the Marketing department," Leo said with a bored tone.

"Here it is, sir," a female staff passed a document to him.

Leo flipped the pages and began to read the comments about the most idle manager in one of his branches.

"Manager Oh," Leo called coldly.

Manager Oh was already drenched in sweat, intimidated by his boss's presence. He looked like a cat beaten in heavy rain.

"Manager Oh! Boss is calling you," a male staff whispered into his ears.

"Sorry, sir," Manager Oh jerked into reality and looked at Leo.

"What's with the report I'm seeing here?" Leo asked and continued flipping the pages.

"Start the presentation for your review now," Leo said coldly and threw the document at him.

Manager Oh noisily got up from the chair and grabbed the document from the table. He also took the remote control and pressed a button to turn on the projector.

"I started working here two years ago as a manager," He began and pressed another button to slide.

"I studied accounting and—"

"Just go over the damn reviews!" Leo scolded him and hissed.

"Oh! Okay, sir," The manager said quickly and proceeded.

"The first woman to drop a review was Miss Lee Sang. I heard her complain about one of our products that made her lose thousands of dollars due to her reckless investment," Manager Oh said.

"Reckless?" Leo smirked.

"Yes, sir. It was reckless," Manager Oh defended himself.

"Explain her definition of recklessness," Leo replied and sat up.

"Sir?" Manager Oh gulped his spit.

"Are you perhaps deaf?!" Leo yelled.

"Sir, I, I had advised her to deposit that amount, but I didn't know that she wouldn't be lucky enough to gain twice that amount because she gained just the amount she had invested within two months of investment," Manager Oh retorted.

"Mr. Song from the Advisory team?" Leo asked and looked around.

"Yes, sir!" A young man spoke into his microphone.

"I heard you handled the case of Miss Lee Sang from the beginning. How did the file get into Manager Oh's hands when he's not from the Advisory team? Has he been moved to that team without my knowledge?" Leo asked.

"Sir, I can ex—" Manager Oh swallowed his words when Leo glared at him.

All the females were ogling at Leo, but he didn't spare them a glance. He had a wife, but they didn't know that. He didn't want them to know about his marital status, so he just left them alone. They could stare at him until they turned gray.

"Miss Demi?" Leo asked, and a woman raised her hand.

"What's the relationship between you and Mr. Finn?" Leo asked with a stern voice.

The woman began to cough when her eyes met Mr. Finn's.

"Nothing, sir," Miss Demi answered.

"Really?" Leo raised his brow.

"Yes, sir," Miss Demi replied.

"Then, what was the sexual moaning I heard from the men's bathroom when I visited the place this morning? Are you now with a dick or do you just belong to the men's room?" Leo asked.

There were soft murmurs of laughter when Miss Demi turned red. She was deeply embarrassed because Leo said that in front of everyone.

"I'm sorry, sir," Miss Demi apologized.

"For?" Leo scoffed.

"We're not really dating. It's just that—" Miss Demi paused, unsure of the words to describe her job.

"As you know, Miss Demi, office romance is not allowed in this company. But since I've heard you two share something special, I'll ignore this. The next time I hear something like this or have someone report it, consider you and Mr. Finn fired!" Leo stated.

"Yes, sir!"

"Yes, sir!"

Leo's eyes shifted to Manager Oh

.

"Are you aware that Miss Lee Sang filed a complaint against me?"

The shareholders gasped while Manager Oh managed to look his boss in the eye for some seconds.

"That's right. I had to settle her with a million dollars for the display of your highest level of stupidity!" Leo yelled.

"I don't want to talk too much, so carefully pack your things and leave this company in half an hour, Manager Oh," Leo ordered.

"I was generous enough to allow the wages and salary department to leave your salary untouched, and I had to pay Miss Lee Sang myself because, after seeing your background, I decided to be understanding," Leo spoke.

"Make sure you see the resignation office to proceed with the necessary documents for an official letter of discharge. In short, you're fired, Manager Oh," Leo dropped the bomb.