Standing up, Ian cleared his throat, “thank you, your Honor. Ladies and gentlemen of the jury, today, we will demonstrate that the government's action in taking Mr Thompson's land is not only lawful but essential for the public good,” Ian gestures to a large presentation board displaying images of the proposed park, maps, and community plans. “This land, currently owned by Mr Thompson, is strategically located in the heart of our community. It is the ideal site for the new public park that will serve thousands of residents, providing a much-needed green space for recreation and community events,” he said, walking over to the jury, making eye contact with them. “The city has conducted extensive studies demonstrating the urgent need for this park. Our population is growing, and with that growth comes the need for more recreational areas. The park will include playgrounds, walking trails, and community gardens, all of which will improve the quality of life for our residents,” Ian said.“
“I can't believe I'm going to lose my land for an ordinary park. This is so fucked up,” Keith said, pacing around. He was really pissed off. Gracie turned to Camila giving her a sympathetic smile.“I'm so sorry. I couldn't do more,” she apologized as Camila shook her head.“It's okay. We couldn't have expected you to do more and Ian Sinclair was so good at what he does that we couldn't even blame you,” Camila said, taping her shoulder.“Yeah, the man was good. Don't sweat it,” Mrs Genevieve chipped in.“Loser of the year goes to Keith Thompson and Campila Joffrey,” Sheila joined them along with Abraham beside her. She was smiling. Camila rolled her eyes, turning to see them.“It's Camila, in case you don't know anything,” Camila said, folding her arms as Sheila chuckled.“Whatever. Your name would be whatever I say it would be because it's only for losers,” Sheila said, smirking. Camila was about to hit Sheila when Mrs Genevieve held her back.“Don't waste your strength on her. She's
“The court finds that the public interest in this case outweighs individual property rights in this instance. I wish you the best in your future endeavors, Mr Thompson,” the judge bangs her gavel, concluding the session. The courtroom begins to clear, with Asher giving Ian a handshake while Keith stands up, dashing out. He didn't even wait for Camila and Mrs Genevieve.“He's really pissed. You better go with him,” Mrs Genevieve said as Camila nods, running after Keith. “Trouble always finds a way to disrupt our lives,” Mrs Genevieve said, sighing, as her eyes met with that of Asher Garfield. She scoffs, looking away as she picks her bag and leaves the courtroom.Keith rushed outside trying to breathe in fresh air. He was suffocating as he struggled with his tie. He had lost again to Abraham Corner. Camila appeared, seeing Keith freaking out, she went to him.“Breathe Keith, breathe. Everything is going to be okay,” Camila said as Keith looked at her.“Nothing is going to be okay Camil
“When are you going to introduce us to your partner?” Camila asked.“What?” Sheila asked to be sure.“When are you going to introduce us to the person helping you? We all agreed to be open. We need all the help we can get,” Keith said.“No problem. I'll set a date for you all to meet him,” Sheila said as Asher came over.“Miss Hockings, Corner asked me to bring you back,” Asher said as Sheila nodded.“Sure, thanks. It's not every time I get to be driven by the president's right hand man,” Sheila said, following Asher. “You should be lucky,” Asher said not before meeting Mrs Genevieve's eyes. “Shall we?” He asked as Sheila nodded, leaving.“What was that for?” Camila asked, looking at Mrs Genevieve.“What?” Mrs Genevieve asked.“Don't play dumb Mrs Genevieve. We saw everything. What's your deal with Asher Garfield?” Keith asked.“Is there a way for me to avoid this subject?” Mrs Genevieve asked.“Not a chance,” Camila said as Mrs Genevieve sighed.“Okay, fine. Come on, let's grab some
Abraham was done with his necessary calls when he came downstairs. Max met him on the way.“Sir, Mr Garfield says he sends his regards. He said he couldn't come up and greet you because he has an important meeting to attend,” Max reported as Abraham nodded.“Where's Sheila? Didn't she come home with him?” He asked.“She did, sir. I believe she's in her room,” Max said as Abraham nodded.“You can go do what you were doing,” Abraham said as Max nodded leaving. “How come I didn't see her when she came?” He asked himself as he walked to Sheila's room. He placed his ears to the door to check if she was in there but what he only heard was the sound of the shower running. “She's taking her bath,” he said to himself leaving.Sheila closed the bathroom door, dialing the number she wanted to call. When the person picked, she placed the phone in her ear.“Hey, I'm sure you already heard what happened at the court earlier today. So, I don't need to waste my time telling you anything,” she said, w
Keith arrived at the office going straight to the meeting room. He entered inside as they all stood up to greet him.“Well thank you,” he said, sitting down. “You all should sit down. We don't have time. We need to be done with this so that we can start with the main work. Is that alright?” Keith asked.“Yes sir!” They all chorused as Keith nodded.“Very well then. Let's begin. Anybody has any idea if we've got calls on potential investors?” He asked, looking at the file which was placed in front of him. “This should be interesting,” he said to himself as what was on his table caught his attention.“Sir!” A lady called, raising her hand.“Yes, go on. This should be an interactive meeting. Everyone's opinion matters. We need to make good cash and make sure our business goes higher and spreads wider,” Keith announced getting his workers engaged.Camila entered her office to see her secretary waiting for her.“Good morning boss,” she greeted.“What's up, B? You've got anything for me?” C
“That's by the way. I wanted to ask how Keith was doing but I think I already have an idea. What's he using as a coping mechanism?” Mrs Hockings asked.“Well, he's got a big project coming his way. So, he's buried himself in it. I think it's good for him and after the big motivational speech your daughter gave, I think it helped him though,” Camila said as Mrs Hockings became surprised.“I think you got the wrong daughter because the Sheila I know is no motivational speaker,” Mrs Hockings said.“You'll be shocked if you were there,” Camila said.“I noticed there's been a change in her. I just hope it continues for the best,” Mrs Hockings said. Camila was about to comment when her phone rang.“Excuse me. I'll take this,” she said.“Go ahead,” Mrs Hockings said, drinking her juice when Camila picked the call.“Hello Gracie! What's up?” Camila asked.“No, I'm not in the office. Is there a problem?” Camila asked as Mrs Hockings looked at her. She nodded her head to tell Mrs Hockings that
“I beg your pardon,” Adam said as Sheila was so quick to reply.“Oh please don't. It would be embarrassing if you do,” she said, smiling, placing a piece of her hair at the back of her ear. “But I'll save you the trouble since I don't feel like talking to you anyway. Why is Abraham throwing a party? What's the occasion?” Sheila asked as Adam laughed. Sheila looked at the man as he laughed with a smile on her face.“Looks like you're not so cool after all,” Adam said.“And what do you mean by that?” Sheila asked.“It seems he doesn't tell you anything either. At least, I'm better than you. It looks like he still keeps you in the dark about everything. I guess I'm still more important than you always will be,” Adam said mockingly. Sheila scoffed softly, looking at Adam.“I really do pity you. Seriously, I do,” she said, giving him a mocking pitiful smile. “Well let me ease you from your worries. This is what Abraham told me and I quote, “when Adam comes, he'll tell you everything and gi