Page 55 of Corporate Escapades

“I was thinking maybe we could kill two birds with one stone. Invite her over and do a makeover of sorts and also recruit her to keep an eye out for potential enemies. It might be fun,” said Mya.

“I don’t want her to think she’s a charity case and that we’re attacking her. How do we go about suggesting such a thing?” asked Paris.

“I suppose we could simply ask her to hang out. See if she’s heard the gossip and whether she knows who’s gunning for your jobs.”

“That’s not a bad idea,” replied Paris. “If she helps us, in return, we can reward her by teaching her how to better dress to enhance her features. Though, honestly, I want to help her either way.”

“When should we do this?”

“How about Thursday night? That way, we can give it a little more time to see if any new information presents itself.”

“Sold,” she replied. “I think that’s a great plan. I’ll ask her about meeting on Thursday when we’re finished here. That way, we can get her to pay closer attention to what’s happening in the next few days.”

Hearing the clanking of a glass, Paris turned her attention away from Mya and watched as her slim and willowy mother stood up. Her dark red lips held a warm smile as she looked from Paris to Vic.

“You two have had another wonderful week.” She beamed. “I’m happy to announce that we’re promoting you once again. Congratulations, you’ve made it back to your primary positions. We’ll be watching to see how well you work with the other employees. You have six more weeks to prove to us you want to be here and that you’re team players.”

Nicola stepped back and took her seat while Jessamine stood up from hers. “I agree with Nicola. You’ve both performed well. We’re happy to see you getting along and working with those around you. As a bonus, we’re giving you each five hundred dollars to buy some new business attire since you’ll be meeting with clients and need to look the part.” Jessamine paused tobrush her long curly auburn hair away from her face, then focused her gaze on Paris. “I know last week was especially straining on you, Paris, but you stuck with it, and we’re all especially proud of how you handled the pressure. Angela can be a bit tough at times, but you kept your cool.”

Paris grinned triumphantly. “Thanks.” She had no idea that the board realized how obnoxious Angela could be.

Nicola, as if she had read her daughter’s mind, replied, “We asked her to test you to see how you would respond to changes in direction. We’re pleased you didn’t make a scene, and that you continued to do your best to complete each task. I’m sure it wasn’t easy.”

Paris said nothing. She was shocked to find her own mother had asked Angela not to go easy on her, but then she had ended up in the current situation of her own volition.

“We’re prepared to end this meeting early, with the knowledge that you know what you need to do next,” said Dom. “Have a great week, and remember, we’re here if you ever need further guidance.”

“Mya and Chase will be your assistants,” added Mikel. “Best of luck.” He smiled and waved them out of the room, but not before Cristo chimed in.

“Mya, if you’ll stay behind for a moment after the others have left, I need a word with you.”

Mya nodded hesitantly in his direction. Paris watched her friend’s shoulders stiffen in response to his voice. Something wasn’t right.

“Do you want me to wait?” she whispered.

“No. I don’t want to make you late,” replied Mya.

“If you’re sure,” said Paris hesitantly. Even as she said it, she knew she couldn’t leave without her. She had plenty of moments from the previous two years that she needed to make up for. She followed her coworkers out of the room. The board turned to theleft while Chase and Vic paused outside the door. Cristo shut the door behind them.

“That was quick,” said Chase. “I didn’t think they’d be so short on words.”

“Shh,” hissed Paris. She had her ear pressed to the door. “I need to find out what’s going on in there. Something’s not right.” She strained to hear what they were saying, but everything was muffled. She moved away from the door, feeling defeated.

“What’s up?” asked Vic.

“I really don’t know, but isn’t it strange how your uncle is calling her aside? She’s not his assistant, nor does she work with him all that closely.”

“Perhaps he’s been put in charge of relaying tasks to her?” said Vic.

“No,” replied Chase. “I’d be aware of it.”

“So, what is it?” asked Vic. Just then, the group heard a loud thud coming from within the

room. Paris jumped. It sounded as if someone had run into the door. “Should we go in there?” she asked.

“No,” said Vic. “I don’t want to do anything to jeopardize our situation.”

“But she might be in trouble,” protested Paris. “What if he’s hurting her?”

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