"It was a big day; a huge news was coming, and it was definitely one that would take them to the skies," Dianne said, answering the questions thrown at her by her fellow colleagues. Early that morning, Mirabel had called Dianne, informing her that she had received an important message - a very important message that would bring immense profit to the Journals.
"Well, that adds to the suspense we're already in," Tyrone said. "We just have to wait and find out what this news is," Sarah added, raising one of her eyebrows.
"So, while we wait for her to arrive, Vicky," Mason said, looking at Vicky, "keep us entertained with fun tales of how you and Mirabel's relationship grew. I mean, how did it even happen? What spell did you cast?" Mason asked.
"Yes, Vicky, we're dying to know... and most importantly, who's that lady that came in here the other day? I mean, it's clear she's from your past, but what exactly happened between you two?" John asked.
"Well..." Vicky began.
"Yes, Vicky, we really want to know," Ethan interrupted.
"Guys, don't you think that question is too personal?" Mateo said.
"Yeah, we shouldn't be asking him these questions," Sofia added, supporting Mateo's point.
"No, it's cool. Sometimes it's good to talk about past and painful events; it sometimes makes one feel at peace," Vicky said.
"Well said. Now, proceed," Jimmy said, his eyes popping with curiosity.
"Hey, Jimmy, don't act like you didn't know what was going on," Mason said.
"I'm not acting. Vicky didn't tell us exactly how it happened; we just heard a little piece of the story," Jimmy replied.
"Let him speak," Tyrone said. "Vicky, please speak," he added, looking at Vicky.
Vicky cleared his throat and looked at his colleagues' eyes, each one engrossed in his face as they awaited his narration. Lucy wasn't that interested, but she wanted to hear about his past.
"Well, Rose is her name. She and I were once in love, and we were once in a relationship. As time went on, things changed; she left me for another guy and never returned," Vicky said.
"Harsh!" Jimmy exclaimed.
"Yes, it was really harsh. For a moment, I felt like the world was over, and I didn't have the courage to move on in life. But I just had to push through all those thoughts. Then, I gained employment here at the Journals, and my long-lost courage, hope, and faith were restored. Most importantly, I had another shot at falling in love," Vicky continued.
"Quick question: did you know you'd fall in love here?" Sarah asked.
"Hmm, not really. But I just felt this place was the place I was destined to be, and I just knew things would work out. Then, I met Mirabel. Well, she kind of intimidated me at first with her eyes and questions, but anytime I saw her, I just felt at ease. I felt peace," Vicky said.
"Awwn, that's cute," Dianne said.
"Cut it out; it's nothing special," Mason said.
"How would you know? You've never been in love," Dianne retorted.
"Damn, that's harsh, Dianne," Tyrone said.
"Vicky, please continue," Mason said, his voice low.
Vicky smiled and continued, "Well, as time went on, I just couldn't neglect the feelings that had started growing in my heart. I just felt like being around Mirabel every time; her smile, her voice, and her eyes were the things that made my day. During the launch party, I told her a little of what I felt, but she shunned me off... I..."
Vicky stopped talking, and Lucy stamped her feet on the floor, an annoyed look engulfing her face.
"Lucy, are you alright?" Dianne asked.
"Yes, I'm alright," Lucy replied, her eyes slowly drifting to Vicky and then looking away.
"Are you sure you're okay, Lucy?" Vicky asked.
"Yes, Vicky, I'm okay. I'm sure that night must have been hard for you; rejection isn't really easy, right?" Lucy said.
"Yes, it is... isn't it?" Vicky replied, realizing the reason behind her reaction.
"Okay, Vicky, continue," Emily said.
Vicky sighed and continued, "Well, that night was really tough, but I didn't give up. I kept on trying and trying until finally, Mirabel gave in; she confessed her love for me, and we went on a date."
"What happened? Did you two kiss?" Jessica asked
"Well..erm..we.." Vicky stammers, winking at him. "Come in, dude, spill the beans...." Ethan says. "Yes, what special thing happened..." Mason asks.
"Nothing much happened; it was just a calm date..." Vicky replies.
"Well, since you ain't gonna tell us, it's fine. You're really lucky..." Frank says.
"Hey guys, sorry I'm late. I got stuck in traffic," Mirabel says, entering the board room. Her eyes slowly fall on Vicky, who gives her a charming smile. She blushes and then stands in front of her employees.
"No problem, Vicky kept us occupied," Mason says.
"Hmmm, and how did he do it?" Mirabel asks, looking at Vicky.
Mason smiles and says, He told us stories of...."
"Well, he just told us some things about Dillsville, and that's all," Dianne interrupts, giving Mason a stern look.
"Okay," Mirabel says.
"So, what's this news about?" Dianne asks.
"Well, it's big, alright," Mirabel says.
"Well, go on. We can't wait to hear what the news is all about," Jessica says.
Mirabel's face illuminates with a smile. "I'm thrilled to announce that we've secured a massive deal with Clearville Productions, one of the most renowned production companies in the industry," she exclaims.
The room erupts in cheers and applause, with employees congratulating each other on this remarkable achievement.
"Wow, this is fantastic news!" Tyrone says, beaming with pride. "What's the scope of the project?" he asks, curiosity getting the better of him.
"Clearville Productions wants us to handle all their media and advertising needs for their upcoming projects," Mirabel explains. "This partnership will not only boost our revenue but also elevate our brand presence in the industry. And they will be producing a new product very soon, so we have to be prepared."
"Wow, that's awesome. I never expected this company to soar this high in a matter of weeks. It's truly a miracle," Ethan says.
"Well, since Vicky arrived, everything changed drastically. He's our lucky charm, right, Mirabel?" Sarah says, teasing her.
Mirabel's face beams with a smile. She looks at Vicky and says, "Well, that's right. He has changed the company and my life as well."
"Awwwwn," they all say, jeering Mirabel to continue, but she can't help but blush.
Vicky, seated across from Mirabel, can't help but exchange loving glances with her. Their colleagues notice the tender moment, and they all smile.
However, not everyone shares the excitement. Lucy, seated at the back, looks annoyed, her arms crossed and a scowl on her face. She stands up, murmuring something under her breath, and walks out of the room.
"Lucy, is everything okay?" Mirabel asks, concern etched on her face.
"Yeah, I'm fine," Lucy replies curtly, without turning back.
The meeting continues, with Mirabel and her team discussing the details of the partnership and how to move forward. Vicky and Mirabel's chemistry is palpable, and their colleagues can't help but notice the happiness radiating from the couple.
As Lucy hastily walks towards the reception, she bumps into Ruth, one of the cleaners in the journals.
"Sorry, Miss Lucy. I didn't see you," Ruth says.
"No, don't apologize," Lucy replies.
"Well, are you all done with the meeting? I have something important to discuss with Miss Mirabel," Ruth says.
"No, they're still having the meeting. But don't worry, you can tell me. I'll pass the message to her," Lucy says.
"Well, I want to resign. The thing is, I have a lot of things going on in my life, and I have to sort them out. It will take a long period of time, so I just have to leave this job. It pains me to do so, but I have no choice," Ruth explains.
"No need to apologize. Don't worry, I understand. I'll pass the message to Miss Mirabel. For now, carry on with your work. Don't stress yourself," Lucy says, patting her shoulder.
"Thank you," Ruth says, leaving Lucy's presence.
Lucy swiftly walks towards a quiet corner of the reception and pulls out her phone. She dials a number, waiting for the person on the other end to pick up.
"Hey, it's me," Lucy says, her voice low and urgent. "I think it's time we talked about that job offer."
There is a pause on the other end of the line before a smooth voice responds, "Really? Thank you so much."
Lucy leaned against the wall, her eyes scanning the office hallway. "Don't thank me. Just be ready. I'll call you anytime, so be prepared, okay?"
" Alright thanks again, I will be expecting your call."
Lucy ended the call, her mind racing with possibilities. She took a deep breath and muttered to herself, "I'm sorry, Vicky, but I can't let you and Mirabel's relationship blossom any further. If I can't have you, then Mirabel will never have you." With a determined look on her face, she composed herself and returned to the board room.
Meanwhile, Vicky arrived home with a broad smile on his face, feeling grateful for another day well spent with Mirabel. He changed his clothes and proceeded to his mother's room.
As he entered her room, Vicky's heart sank. Caroline was lying on the floor, clutching her knee, her breathing faint, and her face pale. Vicky rushed to her side, placing her head on his lap.
"Mom, what's wrong? What happened?" Vicky asked, his voice shaking with fear.
Caroline's eyes fluttered open, and she whispered, "Vicky... I..."
Before she could finish, Caroline fainted, her heartbeat rapidly increasing. Vicky's panic set in, and he quickly dialed the hospital emergency number.
In a matter of minutes, the ambulance arrived, and Caroline was rushed to the hospital. Vicky's heart was filled with terror as every minute passed by.
"What's happening, Mom? I can't lose you," Vicky said, holding her hands tightly as the ambulance drove to the hospital.