CHAPTER 4

Level 20

DE PHILIPS CORP—a name well known among the elite. Its products were unmatched, from cleaning and security robots to those used in restaurants and large corporate offices. Maya Adelline Lily De Philips had been the sole owner since she was 18, dedicating her life to maintaining her family's legacy. With over 1,000 employees under her leadership, she had spent the past decade immersed in the world of technology, pushing the company to greater heights.

As usual, the laboratory office was bustling with activity. Various robots moved around under strict supervision, performing their designated tasks. The company was massive, so much so that the first-ever metal robot created by Maya's father stood as a monument in the center of the main floor. That robot had been inactive for 12 years, its core energy source long depleted.

Despite taking a two-day leave after meeting Arden, Maya returned to work after just one day. She couldn't shake the uncertainty of leaving things in the hands of a newcomer. Her pale face and tired eyes made it evident that she was unwell, yet she stubbornly pressed on.

She stepped into the elevator, heading to the 23rd floor—where Arden and Mr. Bills worked.

As soon as she entered, the employees greeted her with polite "Good mornings" and instinctively made space for her. A sudden cough broke the silence.

Without even turning around, Maya spoke. "You shouldn't be working if you're sick."

The room fell quiet.

"Your name? Floor? Department?"

All eyes turned to the coughing woman. Her voice trembled slightly as she responded, "Tanya Williams Hill, 17th floor, microchip repair department."

Maya pulled out her phone, scanning through the employee schedules. She noted that Tanya often took on extra shifts and was a single mother.

Letting out a quiet sigh, Maya stated firmly, "Take a week off. Spend time with your child and take care of yourself. I don't want to lose a dedicated worker like you."

Tanya's eyes widened in shock before she quickly muttered her gratitude.

The elevator continued stopping at various floors as employees exited. Eventually, Maya was left alone.

A dull headache throbbed at her temples, and her body felt unusually warm. Instead of heading straight to the 23rd floor, she pressed the button for the 20th.

The children's learning center.

This floor was dedicated to introducing advanced technology to young minds. Whenever Maya needed a break, she would come here. Unlike in the corporate world, where she was seen as cold and ruthless, here she was different. This was the only place where she let her guard down, where laughter replaced the stern expression she usually wore.

Only the six elderly caretakers, including Madam Rosie, knew this softer side of her.

As soon as she stepped into the room, her tired expression melted into a warm smile.

"Hi, everyone!"

A chorus of excited voices rang out as the children ran to greet her.