Chapter Five: A New Bargain
Chris stood in front of the towering Brown Conglomerate building, its imposing facade reminding him of the days when he worked there. He had just started working and hadn’t spend half a year when he was asked to leave and asked never to set foot on the office building. Fortunately for him, time have turned and he was now invited back by the same people who sent him away. He took a deep breath, straightened his tee shirt and walked through the revolving doors. Inside, the lobby was a bustling hub of activity, with employees moving swiftly, their expressions focused on their various activities, no body seem to notice him. Chris approached the VIP elevator, an old habit he got used to from his days as a member of the Brown family. As he reached the elevator, a young receptionist, who was new to the building, ran from her desk to stop him. She was neatly dressed, her demeanor sharp and condescending. "Excuse me, Mr. Man," she said, her eyes scanning him from head to toe. "This is the VIP elevator. Are you lost?" Chris met her gaze steadily. "No, I’m not lost. I have an appointment with Mr. Martin Brown." She looked him over again, her eyes lingering on his limp with a sneer and bursted into laughter. "Here to see the CEO? Haha you must be joking, just say you here for the security guard interview, I’ll understand even though I’m sure we can't hire someone with... your condition." Her words cut deep, but Chris remained calm. "I’m not here for an interview. I’m here on business." The receptionist smirked, her voice dripping with disdain. "Business? Dressed like that? And with a limp? Please, don’t waste my time. The staff entrance is around the corner." Chris’s patience wore thin, but before he could respond, Martin Brown himself appeared from the hallway, his expression stern as he approached the scene. "Ah Chris I’ve been waiting for you, was beginning to think you changed your mind, what’s going on here?" The receptionist turned, her demeanor instantly changing to one of respect. "Mr. Brown, this limp man was trying to use the VIP elevator. I assumed he was here for a job interview, given his... appearance." Martin's eyes flashed with anger, and he turned his icy gaze on the receptionist. "Do you know who this is? This is Christopher, my nephew. He’s a prominent man and has important business here today." The receptionist paled, her mouth opening and closing as she struggled to respond. "I-I didn’t realize, Mr. Brown. I’m so sorry…" Martin cut her off, his voice cold and authoritative. "Your behavior is inexcusable. Not only did you judge someone by their appearance, but you also disrespected a member of this family. We do not tolerate such disrespect in this company. You’re fired. Leave the building immediately." The receptionist’s face turned a deep shade of red, her eyes wide with shock and humiliation. She stammered apologies, but Martin’s steely gaze didn’t waver. She quickly gathered her things and hurried out of the building, her head bowed in shame. Chris stood silently, watching the scene unfold. As the receptionist disappeared from sight, Martin turned to him, his expression softening. "I apologize for that, Chris. She had no right to treat you that way." Chris nodded, a small smile tugging at his lips. "Thank you, Uncle. It’s good to see you." "Let’s get this over with," Martin said, pressing the elevator button. Chris just nod his head, recalling that they had also judged him back then. They walked into a spacious conference room, where a large table was already set with the necessary documents. Martin gestured for Chris to take a seat and offered him tea and biscuits, trying so hard to impress Chris, lest he changes his mind. The atmosphere was tense, a mix of anticipation and underlying resentment. "Here are the papers," Martin said, sliding a thick stack of documents towards Chris. "Once you sign these, the hundred billion will be released to the Browns, and your thirty billion share will be transferred to you. Additionally, here are the papers for your new position as CEO of MTD Entertainment House." Chris looked at the documents, then back at his uncle. "Before I sign, I have one more request." Martin’s smile faltered slightly, his eyes narrowing. "What is it, Chris?" "I want the Blue Emerald Diamond Cartier necklace. It costs thirty million and there are only two in the world. I know the Brown can get it, I won’t sign until I have it." Martin's eyes widened in surprise, then he let out a slow breath, nodding. "The Blue Emerald Diamond Cartier necklace... That's quite a request. But it’s not such a hard task for the browns. I'll make sure it’s delivered to you by this evening." Chris leaned back, his expression unreadable. “I'll wait." Martin pulled out his phone, making a quick call. "Yes, this is Martin Brown. I need the Blue Emerald Diamond Cartier necklace delivered to our office by this evening. Spare no expense." He hung up, turning back to Chris. "It's done. You'll have the necklace by tonight." Chris nodded, finally picking up the pen. He began signing the documents, each stroke of the pen a step towards reclaiming his dignity and securing his future. The room was silent, except for the scratch of the pen against paper. When he finished, Martin gathered the papers, a look of relief crossing his face. "Thank you, Chris. You've done the Browns a great service today. Your thirty billion will be transferred immediately, and here are your CEO documents." Chris took the CEO papers, feeling the weight of his new responsibility. "Thank you, Uncle. I hope this marks a new beginning for all of us." As Chris left the building, he felt a mix of emotions; relief, anticipation, and a lingering sense of vindication. He had not only secured a substantial fortune but also a prestigious position that would allow him to build his legacy. Later that evening, as promised, a courier delivered a medium sized, velvet-lined gold jewelry box to luxury flair. It was almost closing hours when a delivery was announced for the director, Stephany. This particular delivery caught the attention of all the workers because of how grand, guarded and handled with extra care. In the presence of the onlookers, an excited Stephany opened the box and everyone gasped at the content. Inside lay the Blue Emerald Diamond Cartier necklace, its stunning beauty reflecting the rare gem it was. She held it up and admired the emerald and diamonds catching the light. Everyone knows this diamond necklace cost nothing less than thirty million, and because only two of it exists, it require a great connect to lay hand on these. She wondered who could possibly gift her such an expensive gem, the one thing she’s always wanted. Suddenly, Her mind skipped back to the well meaning Bradley. He must have really loved her to spend such a fortune to order this for her she thought.Chapter Six: An Unexpected Encounter Leaving the Brown Conglomerate building, Chris felt a sense of triumph and relief. He had signed the papers, secured his share of the profits, and received the Blue Emerald Diamond Cartier necklace for his dear wife. Now, it was time to celebrate in a different way, which was by attending his high school classmate’s wedding, which had turned into a mini-reunion since the entire class had been invited. The wedding venue wasn’t far from the Brown Conglomerates office building, so Chris decided to walk there. The fresh air and the chance to clear his mind were welcome after the intense morning. As he strolled through the bustling streets, his thoughts wandered back to the receptionist's condescending attitude and his uncle's swift defense. It was a bittersweet reminder of the respect he had lost and was now regaining. As he walked, Chris noticed an old man struggling with a heavy load. The man was hunched over, his face strained with ef
Chapter Seven: Old Friends and New Faces and miracles Chris entered the garden venue, its beauty somewhat dimmed by his lingering discomfort from the near-accident. He glanced around, noticing the elegant attire of his former classmates. The men wore tailored suits and the women donned stylish dresses, their laughter and conversations filled with the air of success and contentment. In stark contrast, Chris wore an old T-shirt and jeans, his limp more pronounced as he navigated the crowd. As he moved through the gathering, he greeted his class mates, but no one regarded him. Not even a “hi” did he get back. However not long after, the crowd roared in excitement looking him Chris towards the entrance, it was Turner coming in, he was dressed in sharp suit, he acted so high mighty, walking with confidence and immediately swooning the attention to himself. "Wow, Chris, didn't think you'd have the guts to show up looking like that. wearing those old rags, huh?" He said a
Chapter Eight: Pay fir all their outfit Chris's phone buzzed with a message from Stephany as he left the wedding venue. "Hurry up! The Preston family emergency meeting is about to start." Panic surged through him as he realized the urgency. The distance between the hall and the main road where he could catch a taxi was significant. He usually struggled with such walks due to his limp. Determined not to be late, Chris picked up his pace. To his astonishment, he found himself walking much faster than usual. His leg, which always caused him pain, felt surprisingly strong. Each step was steadier than the last, and the familiar discomfort was absent. He quickened his pace further, a mix of disbelief and hope rising within him. By the time he reached the main road and flagged down a taxi, Chris was almost running. He couldn't believe how normal his walking had felt, but he didn’t have time to ponder it. He hopped into the taxi and gave the driver his address, his mind racin
Chapter Nine: A Family Meeting Revelation The Preston family settled down after the tense start to their emergency meeting. Chris could feel the weight of everyone's gaze, but his focus remained on Grandma Preston, who was clearly ready to reveal the purpose of their gathering. Grandma Preston cleared her throat, capturing everyone's attention. "I’ve gathered you all here today because I received some important intelligence about MTD Entertainment." Chris felt a jolt of recognition. MTD Entertainment, the crown jewel of the Browns' empire, where he was about to take the helm as president. He listened intently, curious about what Grandma Preston had to say. "MTD Entertainment is going to be appointing a new president soon," she continued, her eyes scanning the room. "And they're planning to sign a new actress. This presents a golden opportunity for us. If we can secure a partnership with MTD, it would be immensely beneficial for our family business." Murmurs of excitement
Chapter Ten: An Unexpected Intervention The tension in the air was palpable as Henry continued his argument with the manager over the unreasonable bill as he claims. The room had fallen into a hushed silence, with all eyes fixed on the unfolding drama. Suddenly, a figure emerged from the shadows of the restaurant, striding confidently towards the scene. It was Mr. Dante, the owner of the restaurant, a man known for his wealth and influence. His presence immediately commanded respect, and a wave of whispers spread through the crowd. Everyone knew who he was and what he was capable of. "What's going on here?" Mr. Dante's voice cut through the murmurs like a knife. The manager stepped aside respectfully. "Sir, there's a dispute over the bill. This gentleman," he pointed to Henry, "is refusing to pay the amount owed." Mr. Dante's gaze swept over the gathered Preston family, then landed on Henry, who swallowed nervously. "The bill must be paid," Mr. Dante said firmly. "If not,
Chapter Eleven: Serving Chris A Drink. As the last of the Preston family left the restaurant, Mr. Dante approached Chris with a contrite expression. "Chris, I apologize for nearly exposing your true identity. I had no idea you hadn’t revealed it to the Prestons." Chris smiled, appreciating the sentiment. "No harm done, Mr. Dante. Thank you for stepping in." Mr. Dante’s face brightened with a warm smile. "To make it up to you, allow me to show you my newest venture, it is a high-end, exclusive bar and lounge. It's more luxurious than the one we were just in. I think you'll like it." Chris considered the offer for a moment, then nodded. "Sure, I'd love to see it." They left the restaurant together, and Mr. Dante led the way to a sleek, modern building a few blocks away. The exterior exuded sophistication, and the discreet entrance signaled the exclusivity within. Chris was impressed by the mere exterior of the building as they stepped inside. The interior of the new bar was
Chapter Twelve: Give Him a chance The sun had barely risen when Chris walked through the front door of the Preston household. It was around 6 a.m., and he was greeted by the stern, unforgiving glare of his mother-in-law, Eleanor. She was already up, waiting for him, her eyes blazing with indignation. "Where have you been?" Eleanor's voice was sharp and condemning. “Deciding to create a scene last night by standing against Henry, Grandma's favorite child? You've made things worse for us, spiking the old woman's temper and favor.” “And then what? you have the nerve to stay out the whole night? Do you have any idea what you've done?" Chris opened his mouth to explain, but before he could say a word, Eleanor launched into a full-blown scolding. “You've jeopardized our standing in this family, and for what? To satisfy your ego? Do you know how hard we've worked to stay in Grandma's good graces?" “You know what; I’ve had enough, you’ll have to divorce my daughter and go before
Chapter Thirteen: MTD Entertainment House President. Chris arrived at the MTD Entertainment House, ready to start his first day as president. The imposing building loomed before him, a testament to the power and prestige of the Brown family’s empire. His aunty Georgina was the president of the Entertainment house, however, today, he is the one. knowing she really loved this company and how hard it must have been for her to give up on it, Chris was more than happy to assume the position. After all, she was the mastermind behind him being chased from the Brown’s two years ago. As he was about to enter, a flashy, latest-edition Hyundai Accent drove right up to the front entrance, nearly running over his toes. Startled, Chris stepped back, watching as the driver’s door opened. Out stepped a beautiful blond haired lady with clear skin and radiant smile. Chris immediately recognized Loreta, his high school class mate that he had met at the wedding the other day. Chris rec