you ask!”
Chapter 8
“My ex–boyfriend got an interview there. Apparently, the company is paying him 20,000 dollars a month, Natalie said, seething with anger. “He’s been jobless for six months and lazing around. It baffles me how the head of Foronix Group could justify hiring such a deadbeat for a 20,000 dollar monthly salary”
Martin suddenly coughed, struggling with his spaghel Noticing this, Natalie swiftly handed him a glass of water.
“Tan’t 20,000 dollars excessively high? Especially considering you only make 6,000 dollars a month. Have you thought about applying there?” she queried.
This made Martin cough even more violently, his face turning a shade of red from embarrassment. After catching his breath, he questioned, “I thought you said you no longer speak to your ex. How do you know he’s with Foronix Group?”
“His new girlfriend informed me. We all went to the same university. She and I work at the same place now. We used to be close friends,” Natalie clarified
Martin was taken aback, realizing he had misjudged Natalie. Is it uncomfortable for you, working with her!” he probed further.
“It’s precisely why I’m considering a change of employment” Natalie admitted,
Martin remained quiet. After he had finished eating, he went to take a shower. When he came out, he noticed Natalie engrossed in her phone.
He told her he’d be spending the night in the study, taking his laptop with him. Natalie seemed indifferent to this, heading to take a shower.
In the study, Martin powered up his laptop but found himself idly staring at the screen for a long streich.
Eventually, he reached out to Rowan.
Rowan was visibly shaken by Martin’s call, knowing that in his tenure at the company, Interactions with Martin were rare–no more than three times, and two of them happened earlier this day.
“Why are you up at this hour, Mr. Scott Rowan inquired.
Martin responded sternly. “Inform Samuel, the new hire from today, that his salary will be cut to 4,000 dollars for disclosing his pay. Should he object, find a replacement,”
The following morning, Natalie got up early and prepared a lavish breakfast,
During the meal, Timothy suddenly inquired, “Martin, where did you sleep last night?”
Martin stiffened, exchanging a glance with Natalie.
“Why are you looking at Natalie?” Timothy pressed. T’m asking you”
“I had to finish some work and didn’t want to disturb Natalie, so I opted to sleep in the study Martin explained.
Timothy pondered for a moment before suggesting. “You’ve just gotten married. It’s crucial you spend time with Natalie. Perhaps you should consider a honeymoon!”
“Honeymoon” Martin gave Natalie a look. Quick to catch on, Natalic reassured, “I’ve been swamped with work lately, Grandpa Timothy. Well figure out the honeymoon details later”
“All right, delay the honeymoon if you must, but don’t dally in starting a family. And Martin, don’t let work be your shield again, or Tll have to set you straight,” “Timothy warned,
Feeling the weight of Timothy’s admonishments, Martin was visibly unsettled.
Charlotte, lingering by the doorway, reflected on the prenuptial agreement she had stumbled upon in Natalie’s chamber while tidying up. She pondered. If Mr. Timothy Scott were aware that their marriage was slated to end in six months, would he lose all faith in Natalie? Could this open a door for Kimberly!
Natalie made her way to the hospital after breakfast.”
With Nadine’s surgery scheduled for the upcoming week, a battery of pre–operative assessments awaited her
Post morning consultations, Natalie caught up with Nadine’s attending doctor, Hansen Yates.
Hansen, a charming g and attractive doctor, had honed his skills abroad, earning him a reputation as a leading young medical professional,
He took his time to elucidate Nadine’s medical situation to Natalie with both patience and thoroughness.
At the nurses‘ station, jealousy tinged the air. “Dr. Yates has spent quite a while conversing with that woman. Dr. Larson’s reaction would be something to watch,” one nurse remarked with a hint of anticipation.
2:20 PM
Chapter 8
any claim over Dr. Yates. He’s on the market, so it’s fair game for all,” another nurse
“She should stumble upon this scene. Dr. Larson doesn’t have any c chimed in.
“Are you also vying for Dr. Yates attention? the first nurse inquired.
“Well, I’m hardly alone. Who wouldn’t be drawn to someone as distinguished as Dr. Yates?” the second nurse responded
“Quiet! Dr. Larson is approaching.” They quickly feigned busyness to avoid suspicion.
Kimberly, passing the nurses‘ station, noticed the whispering nurses. “What were you two talking about?” she probed.
The nurses offered a sheepish smile. “We w
were talking about Dr. Yates. He’s been with a patient’s relative for over 30 minutes now
Kimberly’s gaze shifted to the doctor’s office, observing Natalie seated across from Hansen. Natalie’s youthful demeanor gave her the air of a university student.
Hansen’s laughter in response to Natalie’s story filled the room, his smile radiant and invigorating.
It was his smile that had captivated Kimberly. During their studies abroad, she had chased after him for three years. Yet, despite her efforts, his stance remained aloof.
Kimberly’s mood soured at the thought. “Whose relative is she?” Kimberly inquired.
“She’s the granddaughter of the patient in Bed No. 23”
“The one battling advanced cancer?” Kimberly’s memory jogged, then she added. They haven’t settled the full surgery bill yet, have they!”
“Only the deposit has been paid. Around 80,000 dollars remain,” responded a nurse.
“Make sure she’s settled her bill before you schedule the surgery,” Kimberly directed.
“But she’s under Dr. Yates‘ care, the young nurse replied, surprised by Kimberly’s apparent envy.
Tm responsible for scheduling the operating rooms. I prioritize those who’ve paid in full. Just pass that along to Dr. Yates. Should there be any Issue, he can come speak to me directly,” Kimberly stated.
Upon hearing about Nadine’s critical condition from Hansen, Natalie felt tears threatening to spill.
Hansen offered her a tissue, reassuring her, “Don’t worry. After the surgery, your grandmother will be in a much better place health–wise.”
Natalie nodded in appreciation, expressing her thanks. She then saved Hansen’s number in WhatsApp to ensure she could reach out to him whenever needed.
Later that day, a call from the property agent alerted Natalie that someone was interested in viewing her apartment. She rushed back, only to discover the lock had been changed.
A neighbor informed her that Samuel had changed the lock the day before.
Fuming. Natalie tried to contact Samuel, only to find out he had changed his phone number.
At Foronix Group, she inquired about Samuel’s department from Harper, the receptionist, who claimed ignorance of him.
Desperate to find him, Natalie attempted to gain entry but was blocked by Harper. Seizing the opportunity when Harper was preoccupied with her makeup in the bathroom, Natalie snuck in.
Foronix Group spanned 25 floors, with Natalie aiming for the technical department on the 15th.
Without elevator access, she resorted to the stairs, reaching the 15th floor only to find Samuel absent. She extended her search from the 15th to the 25th floor with no luck.
Exhausted, Natalie decided to wait by the elevator. Just then, the elevator doors opened, and a middle–aged man walked out, followed by another. However, upon noticing Natalie, the latter quickly retreated back into the elevator, hitting the close button.
