He made his way back to his place to take a shower, he made a quick sandwich and got out a fresh pair of clothes to wear. He took a look at his sorry excuse for an apartment with hope knowing in a few minutes he could afford a better one, he stepped out and made his way to Esmeralda’s place.
He reached her place in about 30 minutes, she opened the door for him and once again he was greeted by her huge corridors. He loved her art collection, medieval but so beautiful. He followed her to the living room and sighted a man in a suit and briefcase who stood up to greet him.
“Good afternoon sir, pleasure to meet you, I’m barrister Lawrence” he took Atlas hand not waiting for him to offer it and shook him, atlas noticed how excited he was
“it’s nice to meet you too”
“he’s the Lawyer in charge of the Will” Esmeralda chipped in offering some clarity for Atlas.
Atlas nodded. Everything still felt like a dream to him, like he'd died and gone to heaven. How a miracle like this could come his way in his worst moments still felt unreal to him but he wasn't about to jinx it.
They both sat down, the barrister drew closer towards Atlas and gave him a rundown of the Will to make sure he understood. He laid the documents in front of him and handed him a pen.
“Just sign on these dotted lines," The Lawyer pointed.
"I'd like to go over the Will first, if you don't mind." Atlas said.
"Of course, go on." The lawyer gestured.
Atlas took a final look at the Will and its contents, the will was better than he thought. He had total control of his father's property which he thought was completely insane. How could his father possibly trust that he would be able to handle it? He thought to himself as he continued to read the content of the Will.
"If there's anything you need explained, do not hesitate to ask." Esmeralda quipped, watching him skim through his father's will.
Atlas nodded, he quite understood what was being said on the will. It wasn't hard to understand, just hard to believe that with just his signature he would become the owner of a chain of businesses he'd not worked for , a multimillionaire.
He was having a hard time letting everything sink in, a little scared even. What if he couldn't handle it?
It was all so surreal.
"If you require more time, I can leave the documents with you."
The lawyer said, interrupting Atlas's thoughts.
"No, I'm ready," Atlas said, even though he felt anything but ready.
He began to sign the Will and once he was done, he looked up at Esmeralda who nodded with a smile.
“Thank you for your time sir, I’ll go hand copies over to the bank and your company board, you’ll be credited by the bank later this evening, I’ll be taking my leave now”
“wait, could you draft out a contract between me and Esmeralda, I’d like her to be the face of my company for the time being, while I get used to running things”
“Of course sir, if she agrees to it,that is” The lawyer said.
Esmeralda was shocked by his statement, it was clear on her face tht she wasn't expecting this and that alone made Atlas feel like he'd made the right call.
“wouldn’t it be better for you to be known now though?” she enquired.
“I have no idea how to run a huge business such as this. Plus, if I come out as the new owner it may cause business partners to be skeptical to do business with us. Think of it from their perspective, their boss had never mentioned he had a son, nor who will take over his company now all of a sudden I come from nowhere, with no concrete knowledge on running a huge scale business and expect them to listen to me or do business with us….. I don’t think so. Just for a while, let me learn and be brought up to speed first”
Esmeralda smiled at his statements.
“You’re doing just fine by my books, you’ve already started taking responsibility and thinking for the good of the company, but I understand your point, so yes for now I agree to it “
“Great, I’ll have the contract ready by tomorrow sir, I’ll be taking my leave now” the barrister made his way out the house, leaving Esmeralda and Atlas behind.
Atlas checked his time just then and realized it was getting late. He had to go see his mom since visiting hours were almost open.
“I’ll also have to take my leave but we’ll be seeing each other more often." He said to Esmeralda.
“yes we will, let me see you out then”
She led him to the elevator
“You remind me so much of your dad, and for what it’s worth, I think you’ll make an awesome boss”
Atlas couldn’t help but smile at her. He was still mad at his dad for leaving him all those years but he couldn't deny the fact that his father knew how to pick his workers. Something in him told him he was going to get along with Esmeralda.
“Thank you," Atlas grinned and bid Esmeralda good day, on his way to his mother.
Atlas got to the hospital later that evening and found that her mother's pastor had come to visit. He was sitting in the waiting room, probably waiting to be let in.
He sauntered up to him with the intention to say hello.
"Hello pastor Mark, it's been a while."
The man looked up at him and his eyes widened after a second of him trying to figure out who he was.
"Atlas?" The greying man exclaimed.
"On the flesh." Atlas replied, shaking the man's hands.
"I can't believe it's you."
Atlas stared down at the pastor for a moment and hugged it out with him. He was almost at the brink of tears, not because it had been long he saw the man, but because he was simply an amazing personality that helped him grow up."Where have you been?" He asked with a smile plastered on his face. "Doing the Lord's work. I heard your mom has been in the hospital. Mind me asking how you got the money for the bills." Atlas smiled for a moment. He wasn't necessarily going to tell the man that he was rich, it would raise suspicion as to how he got the money."I got a loan from my boss." He lied through his teeth."That's amazing. I believe you are here to see your mom?" He enquired and Atlas nod his head. They both head over to the ward, where Atlas mom was laying down and watching evening news."Hey mom, how are you feeling." Atlas asked going over to her side."I am doing great son and let me be honest with you, it's just so amazing to be back again." Atlas had his mom holding his hands
"Have you finished?" Atlas asked.Arthur asked, "What was it that you just said?""Have you finished?" Atlas inquired.Arthur exclaimed, "You impudent imbecile! Are you even aware of whom you speak to?"Atlas said, "I am aware of the person I'm conversing with – a man who is so unsure about himself that he has to display his riches in order to feel significant."Arthur countered, "Insecure? Don't you dare project your insecurities onto me. Just take a good look at yourself - clad in tattered clothing and scraping for leftovers."Atlas stated, "I refuse to beg. Instead, I am advocating for someone who rightfully deserves better treatment instead of being subjected to physical intimidation by a bully."Bella urged Atlas, "Please don't go through with this."Bella, somebody must. This gentleman believes he can purchase respect; however, one cannot buy it - it needs to be earned," remarked Atlas."How dare you lecture me on respect? You, a pauper and nobody!" - Arthur mocked.Atlas says t
Not againWhere would you like to go, Atlas?Bella said that she wants to go anywhere, but the condition is it must be far from him.Atlas said, "There's a serene spot next to the river that I know of. It's very calm over there."Bella said, "That sounds ideal.”Quietly walking away from Arthur and his world, the tension gradually dissipates.Bella inquired, "What gave you the strength to confront him?"Atlas could not bear witnessing the mistreatment inflicted upon you. Such behavior is undeserved by anyone.Bella said, "You put so much on the line. It wasn't necessary for you to do that on my behalf."Atlas explained, "I couldn't have acted differently as that's simply who I am. Furthermore, you deserve greater than what I can offer."Bella was at a loss for words."It's not necessary for you to speak. Just understand that you're secure at present," stated Atlas.Bella expressed her gratitude to Atlas by saying, "I truly appreciate it."Bella, I'll be there for you anytime.As they
Oh my GodAs the horizon slowly grew brighter, Atlas and Bella lay on the riverbank basking in the gentle glow of dawn's first rays. The cool morning air surrounding them was accompanied by a soft rustling sound of leaves that served as a peaceful background music. A melodious tune filled with serenity and hope erupted from birds beginning their daily songs, completing the harmonious scene.Upon awakening, Atlas stirred and glimpsed the serene image of Bella still slumbering beside him. A tranquil expression adorned her face as it basked in the luminous glow cast by the ascending sun. For a brief moment, he observed her intently experiencing both affectionate concern and resolute ambition stirring within him all at once. While cognizant that their journey ahead would not be without its trials, he remained poised to confront any obstacle with his beloved partner at his side.Softly, he extended his hand and made contact with her shoulder. "Bella," he murmured. "The morning has arrived.
The Next Step"Hey Bella, are you still asleep?" asked Atlas.Bella responded to Atlas, "That's correct. I didn't get much sleep because there are too many things on my mind."Atlas acknowledged, "I comprehend. We have numerous issues to resolve."Bella asked, "What's our plan for today? What do we do first?""We need to figure out how to make some money, and Jack could possibly assist us," stated Atlas.Bella inquired, "Do you believe Jack might have leads on job opportunities or similar possibilities?"Atlas suggested, "Perhaps he could be convinced. However, we must tread lightly and avoid drawing unwanted attention."Bella stated that the worst possible outcome would be Arthurs discovering our location.Atlas suggested, "Why don't we begin by inquiring Jack if he is aware of any tasks that can help us maintain a low profile?"Bella suggested, "Do you agree? Is it time to look for him?"Atlas agreed: "Absolutely, we should start now. The earlier we begin, the more advantageous it w
The Path Forward"Atlas, are you ready for another day?" asked Bella.Atlas expressed, "Indeed, one more day traversed towards attaining liberty."Bella emphasized the need to stay concentrated, acknowledging that they are advancing but reminding them not to become complacent.Atlas agreed, saying "Sure. We should have something to eat first before we go to the factory."Bella agreed, "That's a great idea. We must ensure we have sufficient energy."They cautiously browse through a nearby market, selecting nourishing food at an affordable price.Vendor: "Good morning! May I know what you'd like to have?"Atlas requested, "Could I have bread and some fruit?"Vendor: "Here's your purchase. That will cost you one dollar."Bella expressed her appreciation by saying, "Thank you."After paying, they locate a peaceful area to enjoy their meal.Bella commented, "The bread is fresh. It's a great way to kick off the day."Atlas replied affirmatively, "Indeed, the fruit is delectable. It's vital
Arriving at the factory with resolute determination, they initiate their labor to construct a brighter tomorrow."Both of you, it's great to see. Are you ready for another day?" - Said the Factory Foreman."We're prepared," Atlas confirmed.Bella inquires, "What is scheduled for today's agenda?"The Factory Foreman stated that they need to engage in additional sorting and packing as there is a large shipment scheduled for dispatch the next day."We will not disappoint you," said Atlas."We will accomplish it," Bella stated.Throughout the day, they work diligently on their tasks."Atlas, have you observed how some of the employees gaze at us?" Bella asked.Atlas has witnessed it and perceives that they are inquisitive, possibly apprehensive. It is essential to assimilate more effectively."We ought to maintain privacy and refrain from attracting notice," Bella suggests.Atlas concurred, "Let us maintain our concentration on the task at hand."Throughout the day, they sustain their spe
The Factory Foreman stated that there would be sorting and packing tasks needing to be completed for a large shipment scheduled for tomorrow.Atlas reassured, "You can count on us.""We will accomplish it," Bella affirmed.Throughout the day, they diligently commence their tasks.Bella said to Atlas, "Atlas, it's been on my mind that we can't sustain working like this indefinitely. It's necessary for us to formulate a plan of action for the long run.""I concur. It's imperative that we procure a method to ensure greater stability."Bella suggested starting a small, low-key business of our own.Atlas agreed, "It's a great idea. However, we require funds for its execution."Bella suggests that they should save whatever they can and explore other options.Atlas suggested, "It would be good to speak with Jack again tonight and gather any fresh ideas he might have."Bella replied saying "I agree."They persist in their work, with unswerving determination.The Factory Foreman commended, "Yo