2024-12-01 23:22:58Jonathan was settling into his new life quite smoothly so far as he looked forward to the ceremony of his unveiling and the public announcement of the few companies that have been shortlisted to be beneficiaries of the Hazel Forbes Initiative.
He'd been very busy familiarizing himself with everything he had inherited. Which was a lot of work seeing as he'd inherited a lot. He didn't intend to be a lazy and passive leader, he was going to be actively involved in everything going on in all of his companies as much as he could. Bernard Lampley had been with him every step of the way. He'd answered all of his questions and was doing an amazing job guiding Dexter on his journey. And Grandpa William hadn't lied, he was truly still with him. The man had left several videos, recordings, and handwritten files to aid Jonathan in his journey. They basically enumerated all the secrets to keeping the businesses thriving and only Bernard knew about them. Jonathan spent all his time in a study, listening, watching, and reading the files. He didn't want to make any mistakes. His first step according to his grandfather's counsel was to consolidate his authority. Seeing as many would challenge his background, his experience, and his skills as he had basically just sprung from nowhere. So he decided to meet with all the leaders and heads of the operations and institutions under him. And he was going to begin with the ones closest to him. The moment finally came and Jonathan did not disappoint. He'd had a complete makeover and as he walked into the conference room filled with executives, he took away everyone's breath. His air of dignity untainted by arrogance, his handsome face, clean-cut appearance, and dominating presence was almost too much for them to take. It was a resounding round of applause as he took his place at the head of the table. He stood and stared intensely at each one of the twenty-five individuals present in the room. His eyes said a lot. Some ladies immediately began to wish for the air conditioning to be increased. “We're absolutely elated to welcome you here today, Master Hazel.” A young lady bowed slightly beside him. He looked down at her. She was beautiful and athletically built, but conservatively dressed in suit pants and a white shirt, her hair pulled back in a ponytail. Her full red lips were pulled back in a polite smile as she looked up at him. Jonathan blinked, captivated by the lady’s beauty. “And you are?” He requested, his voice resonating as he was still very much on top of his game. “Your hostess.” She replied, not mincing words. “I’m Via Turkey, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Turkey and I'll be seeing to your every need while you are here.” Jonathan nodded, though he wasn’t sure why he did. “Glad to hear it,” He smiled, turning his attention to the rest of the board members. He gestured at everyone in the room, “You may have your seats.” Everyone sat. “This isn't going to be a long meeting. I've gone through the summary of the files of all the companies you all here represent. However, I would require a detailed report from each one of you. I have no problems with what's been going on. I'm here to assure you that I'm here to foster continuity. You all worked well with my late grandfather and I'd like for that relationship to continue.” Everyone nodded. “From now on, Via, here will be my means of liaising with any one of you. If you have any issues with my methods going forward, put your messages through to her and she'll reach me. Any questions?” A man raised his hand. “We don't know anything about you at all sir, what's our guarantee that you can run the companies you've inherited effectively?” Jonathan smiled, seemingly unfazed by the man’s question. As a matter of fact, it was one of the few things that his grandfather had told him to prepare himself for. “Well, that's not really your business now, is it? If my grandfather could entrust me with his empire, who are you to question him? And you hit the nail on the head when you said you don't know anything about me, so why not think positive thoughts? Instead of wondering if I'm capable of running the empire, why not wonder how you can help me effectively run the empire?” The man swallowed and squirmed in his seat. “I'm not a tyrant.” Jonathan assured, “I welcome every opinion. I might not agree with you but I want to hear your opinion and see how it can work with mine.” “Thank you, sir.” They all chorused. “In the absence of any other questions, I believe this meeting is over?” There was a murmur of assent from everyone and the entire room emptied in a matter of minutes. Via Turkey hung back, however. “That was an awfully short meeting.” She joked. Jonathan smiled. “I like to keep things short and sweet.” Via smiled. “Interesting.” “So? What do you think about being my personal liaison?” “I have no problem with it at all. As a matter of fact, I believe this would just be a smooth sailing promotion.” “Smooth sailing? In business?” Jonathan joked. Via laughed lightly. “Well as smooth sailing as it could get.” She amended. “Good. I'll take my leave now.” He rose from his seat. Via rose with him. “Please hold on, is it true that tomorrow is the Hazel’s Forbes Initiative ceremony?” Dexter's brows rose. Yes! And I want you to send a special invite to one of the shortlisted families,” Jonathan smirked. “And which family is that?” Via asked. “The Jackson’s family,” a sly smile tugged at the corners of his lips.
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The Rise Of Jonathan Hazel CH. 8 (Humiliated in public)
A shot of applause went up as it did for each family that arrived as Elina and her parents arrived at the entrance of the Hazel’s mansion. They smiled and made their way to their seats, Nicholas in tow with them.“You know, I’m still finding it hard to believe that the heir himself, had sent his limousine over to bring us down here. It feels like a dream come true!” Patricia chipped in as they settled down.“Well, we all Nicholas all of these. It was his influence that got us a spot in the Hazel’s Forbes Initiative,” Jacob grinned and raised a glass in salute.~~~~~~A knock sounded on the door as Jonathan stood before the mirror getting ready for the grand unveiling, and the shock he was about to subject the Jacksons to.“Come in.”It was Via.“Hey. I'm ready. And I just got word that most of the guests have arrived. I believe it's time for you to make your appearance.”“And the Jac–” Jonathan began asking as he turned around to face her but his breath caught in his throat.Via was d
The Rise Of Jonathan Hazel CH. 9 (A desire to get back)
"I have never been so humiliated in my life!" Jacob Jackson thundered as he and his family barged into the house. He threw his coat onto the floor, his face red with anger and embarrassment. The fact that they had gone to the ceremony in a beast limousine, and then had to return in a cab, had added more to the humiliation they had suffered at Jonathan’s hands."This wasn’t supposed to happen this way not after all the care we gave him, talk more of the support we showed him, your mother went to all lengths to make sure he got a job in that delivery company to show she cared, but he does this instead!" He continued his eyes red with anger and pain from the embarrassment.Elina and her mother sat quietly on the couch, Patricia embittered dried up her tears whilst shaking her head in disbelief. Elina lost in thoughts, her mind occupied as to how the Hazel’s heir turned out to be Jonathan, the man whom she had just thrown out of her house not long. She had never imagined it to be him re
The Rise Of Jonathan Hazel CH. 10 (An invitation to dinner)
"Good morning, Jonathan." Bernard greeted as he entered the office. "Morning, Bernard! Nice to see you this early morning. What’s my schedule for today, sir? He asked chuckling in between. "Well, sir you have a meeting with some of the members of the executives, unlike the last time we are getting detailed reports of the companies that each one of them is heading over, after which your schedule is free for the day. If you’d like me to add an activity to the schedule let me know sir." Bernard briefed him as they proceeded to leave for the car. "I think that's enough for one day. A man also needs his rest," Jonathan replied, and Bernard smiled as he opened the car door for Jonathan to step in. While in the car, Jonathan watched some clips from his grandfather. He stopped to pick up a call that came into his phone, "Hello Via! Good morning," he greeted, a smile tugged at the corners of his lips. He turned to Bernard and noticed he was smiling, and his own smile widened. "H
The Rise Of Jonathan Hazel CH. 11 (Plots and Schemes)
Jonathan turned toward the small wooden dresser, where his neck tie lay waiting. Picking it up, he began to loop it around his collar, getting ready for the dinner party which Via had invited him to. Suddenly, the quiet creak of the door startled him. He looked up, just as the door swung open, and Eva stepped in, unannounced. She held a mischievous smile as her gaze swept over him, taking in the scene of his preparation."You look fabulous, where are you going?""Yeah for a dinner party between the Jackson’s and Turkey’s family and I happen to be Via’s date." Jonathan replied turning for her to get a good look at him."Do I look good or it’s too much?" He smiled, even if he already knew he was looking just perfect.“Nothing’s wrong with the outfit Jonathan you look perfect!" Eva replied returning the smile.Since Jonathan arrived at the Hazel’s mansion, Eva was the only one among his three cousins who really shared in the joy of being the heir to the Hazel’s empire. As for Peter and
The Rise Of Jonathan Hazel CH. 12 (Follow your heart)
Jonathan sat at his desk, the pale glow of his computer screen casting shadows in the dimly lit office. His fingers drummed rhythmically on the desk, betraying the frustration bubbling beneath his calm exterior. The sales strategy for the head company demanded his full attention, yet his thoughts kept drifting back to Via.They had almost kissed the previous night after the dinner with Via’s mother and the Jacksons. Via had walked him to the car, and was thanking him for agreeing to be his date for the dinner when something mistakenly fell into Via’s eyes. While, trying to help her remove whatsoever it was that had found its way into Via’s eyes, an atmosphere of romance just enveloped them after Via told him that the speck which had probably found its way into her eyes had gone.He was lucky that Roseline came out just that minute, and that prevented the two of them from kissing. He muttered under his breath, “Alright, Jonathan, focus. You’ve got a team counting on you. The success
The Rise Of Jonathan Hazel CH. 13 (Make the rumours spread)
Bernard paced back and forth in his office, his mind racing with the weight of the press accusations that had been flying all over the place against Jonathan that he was mismanaging the Hazel’s assets in satisfying his selfish interests.He clutched the newspaper tightly, his eyes scanning the pages.“All lies!” He exclaimed.He picked up his phone answering the numerous calls coming in, determined to provide explanations and clear Jonathan’s name.“Hello, this is Bernard speaking. I understand there are concerns about the news regarding Jonathan and all that the speculations regarding how he is managing the Hazel’s empire. Let me assure you, Jonathan is doing a good job, and I’d appreciate if you just debunk whatsoever news that is flying all over the place. The press has distorted the facts.”“But Bernard, the headlines are everywhere. How can we trust that Jonathan is really competent enough to manage the affairs of the Hazel’s empire?” The first caller asked, he was desperate to g
The Rise Of Jonathan Hazel CH. 14 (The press conference)
Jonathan adjusted his tie and scanned the crowd, his piercing eyes meeting the gaze of journalists and onlookers packed into the conference room. The flashes of cameras created an almost rhythmic staccato, a reminder that every movement, every word, was being scrutinized.“Ladies and gentlemen,” he began, his deep voice cutting through the murmurs in the room, “thank you for being here today. I want to address the serious allegations that have been circulating regarding my supposed inadequacies in managing the empire which my late grandfather left under my control.The room grew silent, the anticipation palpable.“I categorically deny the authenticity of the rumours flying all over the place,” Jonathan continued, his tone firm but measured. “These claims are baseless and serve no purpose other than to tarnish my reputation and distract from the real issues at hand.”He paused, letting his words sink in. The gravity of the moment was underscored by his commanding presence—broad shoulde
The Rise Of Jonathan Hazel CH. 15 (A strange caller)
The tension from the rumors were beginning to die down and but Jonathan still had his private investigators digging deep to find out who were behind the rumours and what exactly could have been behind it.Via walked in as Johnathan had placed a call earlier to her telling her to meet him in his office.“Via, now that we've addressed the concerns and gained the shareholders' trust again, I think it's the perfect time to discuss expanding our business. We have a solid foundation, and it's time to take the next step.”“Of course, Jonathan! I couldn't agree more. With the renewed confidence in our company, we have a great opportunity to explore new markets and grow our customer base. But we need to carefully consider the risks and ensure we have a solid plan in place.” Ivy said thoughtfully.“I've been looking into potential acquisitions and partnerships that align with our long term goals. By consolidating with complementary buisnesses, we can enhance our offering and reach a wider audie
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CH. 45 (A call from a dead man)
"Nicholas owns what again? How could this happen? What do you mean Elina? Why's he in possession of your all father's property that aren’t part of the properties limited to Skytop?” Patricia's voice had rose in panic, her tone laced with disbelief after she got to learn that the properties which Elina were talking about were not just those limited to the Skytop but everything that belonged to the Jacksons.Elina had reached out to touch her mother's hand, trying to calm her. "Mom, I told you he went to apologize to Jonathan yesterday, didn’t I? This was also part of what he was fighting for Mum. But we need to stay calm and figure this out together. Nicholas will be here tonight, and we can talk to him then."Patricia's panic had turned into anger as she stood up abruptly, her voice now filled with determination. "No, you need to bring him here right now. I need to speak with him immediately."Elina hesitated, unsure of how to handle her mother's sudden urgency. "But Mom, let's wait u
CH. 44 (The tiebreaking vote)
As Jonathan entered the conference room, he could feel the tension in the air. The executives' expressions grim, and their disappointment evident on their faces as they glance in his direction. Jonathan takes a deep breath and tries to maintain a composed demeanor as he takes his seat at the table.The CFO cleared his throat and began the meeting, his voice carrying a weight of disapproval. "Good morning, everyone. We have gathered here today to discuss the recent developments in our company's performance," he says, his tone somber.Jonathan shifts uncomfortably in his seat, feeling the weight of their collective disappointment. He braced himself for what is to come, knowing that he will have to face the consequences of his actions.The assistant CFO speaks next, her voice sharp with reproach. "Jonathan, we had high expectations from you, but since you took over the Hazel Empire, the results have been far from satisfactory. Can you explain what went wrong?"Jonathan cleared his throat
CH. 43 (Angry investors and shareholders)
CHAPTER 43Patricia sat in her room, her voice hushed as she spoke into the phone. The tension in her shoulders was palpable as she listened intently to the voice on the other end. Her words were barely audible, and her expression was a mix of concern and apprehension.Suddenly, the door creaked open, and Elina's voice cut through the room. “Mum, are you in here? I've been looking for you everywhere."Startled, Patricia quickly ended the call and turned to face Elina, her eyes wide with nervousness. "Elina, I didn't hear you come in. What's wrong?"Elina stepped further into the room, her brow furrowed with worry. "I heard you talking on the phone, and you seemed... troubled. Is everything okay?"Patricia forced a smile, trying to appear composed despite the unease that gnawed at her. "Oh, it's nothing, just a work call. You know how it is. Is there a problem?"Elina sat across from her mother, her eyes filled with concern as she relayed the events of the previous day. "Mom, you won't
CH. 42 (Falsified Apology)
CHAPTER 42Jonathan arrived at Via's home after finishing up at the office, eager to check on her and see how she was doing. He had called earlier and was told that Via had been discharged from the hospital.Arriving at the Turkey’s mansion, Via greeted him with a warm smile, appreciating his thoughtfulness. "Hey, Jonathan! Thanks for coming by. It means a lot to me," Via said, her voice filled with gratitude.Jonathan returned her smile and replied, "Of course, Via. I wanted to make sure you're okay. How are you feeling?"Via sighed and leaned back against the couch, her face expressing a mix of exhaustion and determination. "Honestly, Jon, I'm getting better each day. But I can't help but think about work. I feel like I should be back there already."Jonathan gently placed a hand on Via's shoulder, offering her reassurance. "I understand your drive, Via, but it's important to prioritize your recovery right now. Your health is the most important thing."Via nodded, appreciating Jona
CH. 41 (More problems ahead)
Jonathan drives to the office, his mind still preoccupied with Via's condition. Despite the doctor’s assurance that Via was eventually out of danger, Jonathan still couldn’t help but worry about her.The head injury she had sustained from the fall of the ballroom light at the restaurant was still a mystery to him. If not for the text he had received after the incident happened, he would have sued the restaurant. But then, after receiving the text, he knew it was not the fault of the restaurant’s management, and that someone had done it deliberately.As he hurried to the office, his phone rang. It was Bernard, informing him about the reporters seeking an interview regarding the recent news. Bernard had left him earlier to attend to some of the pressing matters in the office, assuring Jonathan that he would stand by him no matter what it’ll cost."I'm on my way," Jonathan replied, his tone composed but with a hint of concern.As he navigated through the busy streets, his thoughts raced.
CH. 40 (Allegations and threats)
Jonathan sat in the sterile waiting room, his leg bouncing nervously as he clutched his phone, waiting for any news about Via. He couldn’t believe that his enemies had also made Via their target, and it made him really scared. What he feared the most was already happening, and he couldn’t help but wonder who else would be their target. Stepping into the position of his grandfather’s successor, he had thought everything will go just fine, and he wouldn’t have to worry about anything anymore, but he was now realizing just how wrong was.Just when he was still in deep thoughts over everything that was happening, his phone buzzed, and it was a call from Bernard.“Jonathan, what’s this I’m hearing about Via? Who could have tried to kill her?”“I don’t know Bernard,” Jonathan admitted. “At this point, I feel like I’m losing my mind already. How’s your wife and daughter?”“They’re fine Jonathan. I already made them leave the country. They left in the first flight and called me a couple of m
CH. 39 (Have fun, Jonathan!)
Jonathan woke up the next morning feeling groggy and disoriented. His restless night had taken its toll, and the weight of his failure from the previous night still hung heavily on him. But as the morning light streamed through the blinds, he resolved not to let his disappointment defeat him. He had come too far to give up now.After a quick shower, he sat down at his desk, a steaming cup of coffee in hand, and began going through his notes. He spread out the documents he had collected so far—files from his grandfather’s vault, the cryptic papers from Mr. Koeman, and the scant information he’d been able to gather about the IAS. Everything seemed disjointed, like pieces of a puzzle that refused to fit together. But he was determined to find a pattern, a thread that would lead him to the answers he sought.As he sifted through the papers, his mind kept returning to Mr. Koeman. The more he thought about it, the more certain he became that the strange caller was indeed the man who had han
CH. 38 (The Hazel's Empire's vaults)
That same night, Jonathan decided to visit his grandfather’s secret vault within the empire. Having turned around in his bed, and unable to get any sleep, he decided to confirm for himself if what the strange caller had told him over the phone was true.The IAS was beginning to appear more than he had envisaged, and with each new revelation unfolding by the day, he decided he’d look deeper into it, and to find out for real what it had to do with the whole of the Hazel’s empire and how it was connected to the death of his father.Throwing off the blanket which he was using to cover himself, he swung his legs over the side of the bed, his feet dangling in the darkness. The weight of everything that was happening was becoming too much on him, but he knew this wasn’t the right time to quit—not until he has found all the answers to the questions that were bothering him.He dressed quickly and quietly, changing from his pajamas, his hands shaking with uncertainty. He knew he had to be caref
CH. 38 (Unravelling more secrets)
The streets outside were bustling with the usual city energy, but Jonathan couldn't help but feel a sense of vulnerability as he made his way home. Bernard’s wife had finally been discharged from the hospital, and he had given him time to be with her and their daughter Michelle.With everything that was happening, he decided to take a stroll round the city's street, as a way to clear his mind of all the things that were weighing heavily on his shoulders.It would be the first time in a long while that he'll be taking such strolls since he took over the Hazel's empire. It made him miss the good old days when he didn't have much to worry about—the days when he had nothing to protect and didn’t have to drag other people into his problems.All his life, he had thought that having money and power would make his life better, but only now had he begun to realize that he was wrong. Since he took over the Hazel’s empire, his life had really changed. He had made more enemies within the few mont
