ALEXANDER THE GREAT: The Unlikeliest Boss

3: His Mother's Last Wish.

Alex felt his heart sink as Argent's words sank in. He never knew he had something to do with his termination of job. What did he ever do wrong to that man? He clenched his fists, trying to suppress the anger rising within him. "You can't do this!”

But Argent just laughed, his eyes glinting with malice. "We'll see about that!" The line went dead, and Alex was left staring at his phone in disbelief.

Could his life get any frustrating than this? He clenched his fists, fighting back angry tears. How had he failed so miserably?

His phone rang again and he picked it up in anger. “Aren't you satisfied already?!”

Alex realised it wasn't Argent's call. He didn't even check the caller ID before barking like a bull dog. He saw that the call was from the hospital his mother was being treated for cancer. His heart missed two beats as he answered back.

"Hello?" Alex said, his voice trembling.

"Is this Mr. Alexander Brooke?" the voice on the other end asked.

"Yes, this is Alex. Is there any problem?" he asked, his heart pounding in his chest.

“I'm sorry to inform you that your mother's condition has worsened. She's not doing well, and we don't think she has much time left. You should come to the hospital as soon as possible!”

Alex felt a lump form in his throat as he hung up the phone as he rushed out of the restaurant. If only he had worked harder, provided more for her treatment, this wouldn't have happened. Now he would never get the chance to make it up to her.

When he arrived at the hospital and his mother's room, the dull beep of the heart monitor echoed in the stillness. His mother's frail body laid beneath thin sheets, skin as pale as tissue paper.

"Mom," Alex called, his voice breaking as he approached her. "I'm here."

His mother turned her head to look at him, and a weak smile crossed her face. "Alex," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "It's good to see you."

Tears welled up in his eyes as he took his mother's hand. "I'm so sorry, Mom." He drew out a seat and sat on it.

His mother, Anna squeezed his hand weakly. "It's okay, Alex. I just want to spend some time with you."

They sat in silence for a few moments, both lost in their own thoughts. He couldn't bear to see his mother like this, so weak and fragile.

He had always thought of her as invincible, but now he realized that she was just as vulnerable as anyone else.

They had always been close, despite their humble beginnings. They grew up in the countryside of Texas, struggling to make ends meet. His father had passed away when he was young, leaving his mother to raise him on her own.

As he sat there, he suddenly heard a deep voice behind him. "Alex?"

He turned around and that was where the word "charisma" lies. The man was flawlessly dressed in a suit tailored exclusively by Louis Vuitton that fitted him like a glove. It made from super 110s wool, with highest attention to detail from the monogrammed buttons to the precise stitching along the silk inner lining.

"Who are you?" Alex asked, his eyes running over the man's outlook in awe.

"I'm Edmundo," the man said, stretching out his arm for an handshake. "I'm your mother's friend." As he did so, Alex could not help but marvel at the diamond-encrusted wristwatch on Edmundo's wrist. The combination of diamonds, precious metals, and intricate craftsmanship meant the watch likely cost several hundred thousand dollars, if not over a million for the finest examples.

He suddenly looked up at Edmundo, surprised. Mother's friend? His mother mention anyone named Edmundo before. She barely associated herself with the women folk, talk more of a man as outstanding as he was.

Anna noticed Alex's confusion and explained, "Dear, Edmundo and I met years ago and we became good friends. Once I'm no longer here, he will be your guardian and he will ensure that you are well taken care of. He has all it takes to fulfill this role... so please don't have any negative thoughts about him." Alex nodded, sniffled, and tightly grasped Anna's hands.

"Mom, I'm so sorry for everything, I am so worthless that I could not even provide you with the best treatment. I should have tried my best," he took her hand in both of his. "I know I haven't always been the best son, but I love you so much."

His mother smiled faintly and squeezed his hand. "I love you too, Alex. You've always been a good son. And don't blame yourself for anything...you did what you could."

Alex couldn't hold back the tears any longer. He leaned over and hugged his mother, holding her tightly as he cried. She wrapped her arms around him, holding him close. They maintained that position for a while, each sharing unspoken emotions through that hug.

Edmundo could only stand aside and watch. He felt a twinge of sadness as he watched Alex's grief. He had known Anna for years.

She spoke often of her proud son, though money was scarce and life was difficult. Her belief in Alex's potential sparked something in Edmundo - a desire to use his own privilege to help those in need.

Eventually, his mother's breathing became more shallow, and Alex knew that the end was near. He leaned in close to her and whispered, "I love you, Mom. I'll never forget you."

Anna's eyes fluttered, and she smiled weakly. “I love you too, Alex. Always remember that,” her eyes moved to Edmundo. “And please Edmundo, take care of my son as you promised...”

Edmundo nodded his head in grief. With a final gasp, Anna passed away, leaving Alex alone with his grief and memories.

Alex broke down completely then, clutching his mother's hand and sobbing. He stayed with her for a few more moments, holding her hand and saying goodbye.

"Alex, don't worry, I'm here for you," Edmundo said in a sympathetic tone. He gently tapped Alex on the shoulder, understanding the pain he must be feeling.

Alex looked up at him, a frown on his face. Who exactly was this man and what wealthy family was he from? What did he even want from a poor guy like Alex?

Edmundo noticed Alex's hesitation and said, "Alex, your mother was one of the most amazing people I ever met. She had a heart of gold, and she always put others before herself. I want to honor her memory by doing everything I can to help you succeed, just like she wanted!”

"But who are you? You seem to be extremely wealthy," he asked, taking in the man's sophisticated appearance.

Edmundo smiled at him, adjusting his suit. "Time will tell, Alex. Just know that I'm here for you, and I'll do everything in my power to help you achieve your dreams, take my card and feel free to come home when you are ready."

Alex nodded, collected the card from the man and shoved it into his pocket without even bothering to check the name.