Misfortune

"Vivian, I know you are a good friend of my wife, so as a gift, I hope you don't take offense at the position assigned to you. Don't worry, this position is based on your abilities and you are qualified for it," Max said casually. "And don't tell anyone who I really am," he added.

"Why don't you want to tell Alexa that you are the chairman of Crownguard Group?" Vivian asked curiously after recovering.

"It's not the right time yet, and it's a long story," Max said before taking another sip of tea, "but I hope Vivian will keep this secret," he said with a smile.

Vivian couldn't make sense of what was happening, but she simply nodded. Max smiled before gesturing that he could leave.

Vivian left the room, still unable to digest the truth in front of her. She slapped her face and felt a pang on her cheek, 'damn, it's real,' she whispered to herself before walking away.

...

Below the office, outside the conference room where the interview was taking place.

"Ms. Cole, it's your turn," called