Chapter 15: We need a new ambassador

At the same time he didn't to hurt her feelings either.

Albert agreed to see Alyssa tomorrow, despite his reservations. "Fine, I'll see you tomorrow," he said. "But Alyssa, please, just behave yourself, okay?"

Alyssa's voice turned sweet and conciliatory. "I will, Albert, I promise. Thank you for forgiving me."

Albert hung up the phone, feeling a sense of unease. He wasn't sure why he had agreed to see Alyssa again, but he couldn't shake the feeling that he was making a mistake.

——

The following morning, Albert had a meeting to attend from his Company.

Albert sat at the head of the conference table, surveying the room filled with his top executives.

They were discussing the latest quarterly earnings, and Albert was pleased to see that the company was performing well.

"As you can see from the numbers, we're on track to meet our projections for the year," said Rachel, the CFO.

"However, we do need to discuss the recent rumors about a potential merger with Rykard Industries."

Albert's eyes narrowed. He had heard the rumors too, and he wasn't sure what to make of them. Rykard Industries was a major player in their field, and a merger could be beneficial for both companies. But Albert was wary of losing control of his own company.

"What do we know about Rykard's proposal?" Albert asked, looking around the table.

James, the COO, spoke up. "From what we've heard, Rykard is offering a significant amount of money for a majority stake in our company. However, we would need to discuss the terms of the merger and ensure that it's in the best interest of our shareholders."

Albert nodded thoughtfully. He knew that this was a decision that required careful consideration.

Just as Albert was about to respond to James' comment about the merger, Emily, the marketing director, spoke up.

"Excuse me, Albert, but I think this is a good opportunity to bring up something else. With Ryan's accident, we're in need of a new brand ambassador for the company."

Albert nodded, remembering Ryan's accident. "Yes, that's a good point, Emily. Do you have any suggestions for a replacement?"

Emily smiled. "Actually, I think I might have the perfect person in mind. I've been looking at some potential candidates, and I think we could find someone who would be a great fit for our brand."

Albert's eyes narrowed slightly. "Who did you have in mind ?"

" Apparently no one. But I suggest we make an announcement and have auditions to find a perfect replacement." Emily said.

The rest seemed to agree with her.

" Okay, Do it quick. Our products need to be marketed." He concluded.

The meeting finally came to an end and Albert went back to his office.

——

Mariam's eyes widened as she read the news on her phone. "Yes!" she exclaimed, pumping her fist in the air. She quickly grabbed her phone and dialed Alëna's number.

"Alëna, darling! I have the most wonderful news!" Mariam's voice was trembling with excitement.

Alëna's voice was calm and curious on the other end. "What is it, Mariam?"

"The company is looking for a new ambassador! They just released an advertisement, and I know this is your chance!" Mariam's words tumbled out in a rush.

There was a pause on the other end before Alëna spoke up. "This is it, isn't it? This is our chance to get back at Albert Thompson."

Mariam's voice turned cold and determined. "Exactly, Alëna. This is our chance to make him pay for what he did to Ryan. Now, let's get to work. We need to prepare you for that audition."

Alëna's voice was firm and resolute. "Don't worry, Mariam. I'll make sure to get the job. And then...Albert Thompson will be mine."

Mariam's voice was filled with confidence. "Alëna, darling, don't worry about the audition. I already have a plan in place."

Alëna's curiosity was piqued. "What kind of plan, Mariam?"

Mariam chuckled. "Let's just say that I have some...connections within the company. I've been gathering information for months, waiting for the perfect moment to strike."

Alëna's eyes narrowed. "What do you mean?"

Mariam's tone turned sly. "I mean that I have someone on the inside who will make sure you get the job. You just need to show up to the audition and be your charming self."

Alëna's voice was hesitant. "Mariam, I don't know if I'm comfortable with that. I want to get the job on my own merit."

Mariam's laughter was cold and calculated. "Alëna, darling, this is war. We can't afford to play fair. We need to do whatever it takes to bring Albert Thompson down. And if that means using a few underhanded tactics, then so be it."

Alëna's silence spoke volumes. She knew that Mariam was right. This was a game of revenge, and they needed to play to win.