For laugh an oil tycoon invited a restroom cleaner as his friend's wife for the evening at a wedding

Fiona sat on the edge of the old bed in the corner of her small dorm room gazing at the remnants of a wilted rose and a glass of water that served as her vase her roommates were noisy often drunk and she hardly left her room trying to avoid unwanted encounters having been orphaned Fiona had been through a lot and this new home felt like a temporary Refuge from the tough life in the orphanage the government had given her a small amount of money to help her get settled however some some of these funds had gone

towards the most necessary repairs in her new but dilapidated dwelling now with her initial funds spent Fiona faced the pressing task of finding a job she understood that without a specialized education her opportunities were limited all she could hope for was a low-paying job that would barely cover her modest expenses Fiona spent several hours looking through job advertisements and one caught her eye a business center near her dorm needed a the pay was quite high for such work and the location was convenient since she could walk there Fiona decided it was the perfect option for

her she carefully pulled some of her clothes from an old suitcase choosing those that seemed most appropriate for an interview her clothes weren't new but they were neat Fiona selected a light colored blouse and a kneelength skirt she washed up combed her hair and looking at her reflection in a small mirror concluded that she looked tidy enough for the interview the next morning Fiona headed to the business center where the job was available the walk didn't take long and she arrived 10 minutes early The Business Center building looked impressive and she felt a bit nervous

inside after registering at the reception she was directed to the manager's small office the man who met her introduced himself as the building manager he was dressed in a neat suit and gave her a friendly smile IA right thanks for coming let's discuss what we need from you we're looking for someone reliable who can keep our building clean you seem very neat and disciplined that's good he began and Fiona felt her nervousness ease a bit the interview went smoothly and at the end of the conversation the manager informed her that he was ready to hire

her we're ready to offer you the job Fiona you can start tomorrow for the first period we'll provide you with a uniform and a pass to the business center are you ready to accept our offer with relief and joy Fiona noted finally she had a job and she could start a new chapter in her life with some stability it was a new beginning a step toward an independent and secure life in the business center where Fiona now worked things weren't as smooth as they seemed it was a place where big money made big Ambitions and

sometimes big trouble troubles on the top floor in a huge office with panoramic Windows three men sat staring out the window Jacob the head of a major department and his two friends Luke and Simon were amusing themselves by watching the janitor slowly sweep the parking lot look at that old man I bet I can make him fall Ready to bet $1,000 his friends accepted the BET Jacob confident and determined to win another bet grabbed the keys to his sports car and smiled easy he said his eyes gleaming at the thought of an easy win a

minute later when the janitor got closer to where Jacob usually parked he pressed a button on his keys and the powerful Roar of the engine shattered the silence startled the old man stumbled and fell onto the cold asphalt the office rued in loud laughter and Applause that was fantastic you won again Jacob exclaimed Simon handing him another $1,000 my winning streak started at Birth and it will never end said Jacob watching as the old man got up and continued his work as if nothing had happened look around I'm the boss I've got cars women money

and I just won another two grand from two idiots the atmosphere in Jacob's office changed instantly when his father Richard appeared in the doorway the air seemed to thicken and the marint evaporated as soon as he slammed the door behind him cutting off any escapee from the impending conversation Jacob's friends Luke and Simon exchanged nervous lances and then without a word quietly slipped out of the room leaving Father and Son alone Richard a large and imposing man with a characteristic silver man that added to his authoritative presence walked over to the desk and without ceremony

took Jacob's glass of whiskey and downed it in one gulp his father was unhappy about the Lost contract that Jacob was supposed to secure all of this is nonsense dad the market is full of opportunities and we have negotiations tomorrow for a $300 million contract Jacob tried to joke trying to maintain his composure nonsense you've already lost two major contracts and because of your antics the company is teetering on the brink of losses Richard's voice usually calm and steady was now harsh and unequivocal Jacob tried to say say something in his defense but Richard continued

not letting him get a word in I made you a manager not to waste time and money on Mindless entertainment I can just as easily remove you from this position remember you're not the only one who can run this company a grim silence fell over the room Jacob who always felt confident and at ease suddenly felt like a small boy under the weight of his father's Authority I'm not the person you want me to be dad I I never was I'm doing my best he finally said his eyes shining with pent up emotions it's not

about who you want to be it's about who you need to be you're my son and I want you to pull yourself together your mother and I worked so hard not for you to ruin everything Richard softened his tone but there was still fatigue and disappointment in his voice and when are you finally going to find a wife and start a family time is ticking Jacob Jacob just waved him off no longer wanting to continue the conversation frustration and resentment mixed with a sense of guilt he knew his father was right to some extent but

his pride wouldn't allow him to admit it openly Fiona soon got used to the rhythm of work at the business center her duties were clearly outlined and she performed them with unwavering Precision the employees busy with their own Affairs hardly noticed the quiet janitor which made her job peaceful and predictable the staff although more of an abstraction to her seemed friendly and Fiona felt safe among them the business center manager Mr Graves rarely spoke to Fiona directly but this time he approached her personally he mentioned that there was going to be a corporate event and

they needed her to stay for the night's shift to clean up afterward Fiona's heart raced a little faster this was a chance to earn more and she couldn't pass it up after her day shift Fiona settled into a small staff room that had been temporarily provided for her the room was modest an old bed a table and a chair everything she needed for a short rest she looked out the window watching the employees in their festive attire laughing and joking as they headed to the conference Hall where the event was starting Fiona smiled imagining them

dancing and having fun while she waited for her turn to clean up time passed slowly and Fiona pulled out an old book from her bag that she had read many times before each page was familiar but the coziness of the room and the anticipation of extra earnings made the reading enjoyable she barely noticed the streets outside emptying and the building growing quieter sometime after midnight when the noise in the hall had subsided Fiona thought it was time to start she carefully put the book away put on gloves and grabbed her cleaning cart approaching the conference

Hall doors she slowly opened them expecting to see a post-party mess but instead she saw a few figures still sitting at the table with glasses in hand Jacob and his friends apparently not in a hurry to end the evening remained Fiona hesitated at the threshold unsure whether to enter or wait until they left Jacob looked up and seeing her nodded signaling that she could begin come on in Fiona we're wrapping up he said with a slight smile she nodded back and quietly made her way to the far end of the room starting to claim the

Mart in the conference Hall slowly dwindled like the last notes of a long night leaving only the echo of laughter and conversations the room now only held Jacob and his two closest friends Luke and Simon who despite the late hour weren't in a hurry to call it a night they were sitting playing poker who are you bringing to the wedding Luke asked trying to peek at Jacob's cards whoever I bring will definitely be prettier than your fiance Jacob replied with a smirk prompting an outburst of laughter from his friends Simon not missing a beat added

look taking escorts with you is no big deal with your income try finding a girl who doesn't need to be paid I Dare You Jacob already quite drunk leaned back in his chair and laughed what are you challenging me Fiona trying not to make noise was cleaning the far side of the large room Luke lowered his voice to a whisper bet you can't bring her to the wedding Jacob glanced toward Fiona who was already starting to clean up the remnants of the party that gargoyle I'm not even sure she's a girl he scoffed making his

friends laugh even louder I'll put down 10,000 that you're scared to take this bet Simon challenged with Luke nodding an agreement Jacob feeling the mix of alcohol and adrenaline took a bold Swig from his glass and grinned get your money ready Fiona felt a slight weakness as she finished the final touches of cleaning the conference room her hands were heavy and tired from The Continuous work with the moppin cloth but she knew every corner of the room sparkled with cleanliness she was meticulously wiping the last tables when the manager Mr Graves knocked Softly on the

door Fiona turned to him awaiting his evaluation Graves glanced around quickly assessing the results of her work after he slowly walked through the room his face lit up with satisfaction excellent job fion you did great his voice sounded sincere although exhausted Fiona couldn't help but smile at his words it was nice to have her efforts acknowledged thank you Mr Graves I tried to make everything perfect you can go rest now come back to work at noon and I'll make sure half your day is paid is a full day you've earned it he said moving towards

the exit Fiona noded smiled gratefully and headed to the staff room her steps were slow and heavy but a sense of Peace settled in her heart changing into her regular clothes she quickly washed up the light in the staff room was dim and soothing and the bed in the corner looked incredibly inviting lying down Fiona felt her muscles relax and fatigue slowly envelop her consciousness sleep came quickly and she didn't resist it knowing she still had work ahead when Fiona woke up it was almost noon sunlight lazily filtered through the blinds and she felt a

surge of energy she knew she had another half day of work ahead but the sense of accomplishment and the prospect of good pay for overtime motivated her Gathering her strength she got up determined to finish the day as productively as she had started Jacob's hangover weighed heavily on him as he rushed late into the conference room where the board of directors had already gathered tension filled the air and all eyes were on him the young Heir who in their eyes was toying with the company's future like a frivolous toy Jacob took his seat avoiding I

contact with his father who sat on the opposite side of the table Richard looked at his son with clear disapproval and irritation the meeting lasted three grueling hours they discussed major contracts strategic planning and New Market opportunities every word every proposal seemed to hold no interest for Jacob when the announcement of securing a new major contract finally came the tension between Father and Son in the room was almost palpable as the last of the directors left the room Richard approached his son his eyes were blazing with Fury look at yourself idiot do you understand that

you could have ruined everything no one will deal with someone like you this new contract is entirely my doing I have the authority and people trust me Richard spat out angrily and before Jacob could respond his father struck him across the face the slap was unexpected and painful but his father's words hurt even more when I'm gone you'll ruin this company before I even have a chance to rot in my grave Richard added and without waiting for a response he left the room Jacob went to his office not thinking about the contract or his father's

words all that concerned him was his current state he poured himself a glass of whiskey the F rang sharply breaking the silence Luke's name flashed on the screen reluctantly Jacob picked up Luke's enthusiasm only exacerbated Jacob's feeling of exhaustion hey remember our bed last night you have to bring that girl to the wedding or you lose Luke said cheerfully Jacob vaguely remembered the party but the details were hazy he only recalled flashes of laughter alcohol and talks about bets I don't even remember what we were talking about Luke Jacob admitted rubbing his temples oh buddy

you were really out of it but a BET's a bet so get ready to lose Luke continued Jacob smirked Darkly don't count on it he replied his pride slowly bringing him back to his senses after the call Jacob sat staring into space his thoughts were chaotic business his relationship with his father the company's future and now this absurd bed everything swirled together in a chaotic Vortex from which he felt it was impossible to escape Jacob sat in his office pretending to work though his thoughts were far from business the headache tormented him all day and

memories of the previous evening annoyed and distracted him he flipped through contract Pages unable ble to focus on the text suddenly his musings were interrupted by a russle at the door Fiona quietly entered the office collecting trash from the bins her presence suddenly reminded him of the BET and his friend's wedding sitting at his desk he watched her in her baggy work uniform as Fiona headed to the door Jacob stopped her Fiona wait his voice sounded harsher than he intended she stopped slowly turning to to him her face was calm but confusion was evident in

her eyes I want you to take tomorrow off he began pulling a watt of cash from his wallet and placing it on the table his tone was arrogant and commanding as if he were giving orders to an employee who had no right to refuse you'll need to accompany me to an event try to look decent get your hair done by a nice dress Jacob said sneering at her work clothes his words almost insulting right now it's hard to tell if you're a boy or a girl Fiona froze her gaze darkening tense silence filled the room

it's an easy job just stand with me for a couple of hours have a drink and you're free it'll be the easiest thousand you'll ever make he continued his voice almost disdainful for a moment Fiona stared at him her eyes sparking with anger then she slowly approached the table looking down at the money sorry sir but my job doesn't include escorting Rich idiots to parties with other Rich idiots her voice was firm and calm but each word hit Jacob like a slap he was surprised until now the only one who dared to talk back to

him in this company was his father for a moment he almost enjoyed the new experience Fiona was crossing the threshold of Jacob's office when his voice called after her she stopped not turning around feeling every muscle sense in anticipation of his next move Jacob wasn't used to refusals especially not such sharp ones from someone who by his standards was just a lowly employee he approached her in the hallway his steps measured and confident Jacob stopped Fiona by placing a hand on her shoulder Listen sweetheart you should be familiar with the concept of loyalty every employee

in this firm adheres to it if you're against it then you're no longer our employee his voice was threateningly soft as if he were discussing contract terms not threatening her with dismissal Fiona froze feeling the weight of his hand increase with each word she couldn't afford to lose this job it was her life her only source of income her heart pounded in her chest feeling the internal struggle between anger and fear as soon as Jacob made a move to leave she hastily said I agree her voice trembled the words escaping her despite her internal resistance

she extended her hand and took the money he still held that's better Jacob smiled his smile cold and calculating great then I'll expect you tomorrow evening Fiona's day passed under a heavy burden of Gloom she felt out of sorts every movement seemed heavy and ordinary tasks posed unexpected difficulties mistakes dogged her making her work slow and exhausting she even spilled cleaning solution accidentally dropping the bottle a small thing but at that moment it seemed like a symbol of her entire day during the break she joined her colleagues in the break room for a tea break

her colleagues quickly noticed her downcast mood Fiona what's wrong you don't seem yourself today one of her colleagues inquired inviting her to sit Fiona hesitated but then decided to share her worries as she recounted Jacob's proposition and his blatant blackmail her listeners faces showed growing indignation how dare he that's outrageous exclaimed one of the junior employees the teacup Frozen in midair yeah where's his father and all this added another and the room filled with voices of indignation at that moment the senior cleaner Martha with 40 years of experience at the company sat down next to

Fiona she moved closer and placed a reassuring hand on Fiona's shoulder don't worry dear Jacob may be a jerk but he's harmless take the money buy yourself a nice dress go to the event relax enjoy yourself it's only a couple of hours after all she said softly trying to comfort Fiona but what about my dignity and if he tries something Fiona began but Martha interrupted her his father Richard is always fair to his employees if Jacob crosses the line we'll complain and Richard will put him in his place Fiona hesitated her gaze lingering on her

teacup I don't want to lose my job but I don't want to play these games either in the silence that followed her words everyone returned to their thoughts knowing that no matter what advice they gave the decision was hers alone Dawn entered Fiona's room with a warm light promising a new day and New Opportunities the night had been Restless she woke up several times gripped by doubts and anxiety about the upcoming evening but when morning came she gathered all her strength and decided she had to face this challenge after all the money offered was substantial

dressed Fiona headed to a beauty salon it was her first visit to such a place and she felt a bit awkward amid the gleaming mirrors and murmuring conversations however the stylists were exceptionally friendly and soon Fiona felt more confident she chose a hairstyle that turned her usually strictly tied hair into elegant waves cascading over her shoulders and light makeup that highlighted her natural beauty next was the store fion stood before rows of evening dresses feeling lost she cautiously touched the Fabrics assessing their colors and textures until she felt the attentive gaze of a sales associate

he approached her noticing her confusion and offered his help let me help you choose you look amazing and this dress will only enhance your beauty he said directing her attention to a floorlength red dress with a daring back cut despite her doubts Fiona tried on the dress and couldn't deny it fit her perfectly when she returned to the business center and changed in her room even Fiona was amazed by her reflection in the mirror she had never seen herself like this elegant Bold and Beautiful her doubts about her outfit choice resurfaced but at that moment

the senior cleaner Martha entered the room oh my who is this beauty queen exclaimed Martha and both women laughed I'm still unsure isn't this too much Fiona asked nervously no dear it's just right you look like a star and remember if anything goes wrong we can always report to Richard Martha reassured her you're a young beautiful woman you need to have some fun Fiona took another look at herself in the mirror she nodded sighed and smiled at her reflection she decided to take this challenge as an opportunity to see another side of life even if

it was part of someone's game Fiona stood at the front entrance of the business center wearing a jacket to cover her stunning dress from the cool evening air her appearance didn't go unnoticed passers by glanced her way surprised and some even complimented her seeing not just a cleaner but a beautiful elegant woman Fiona wasn't used to such attention and each word made her heartbeat faster at that moment Jacob emerged from the business center talking on the phone his gaze was directed elsewhere but when Fiona called his name he turned and froze in surprise for a

moment he hung up and stood there with his mouth open staring at her in amazement his eyes showed genuine surprise at how she looked out of her work uniform and in an elegant outfit J Jacob approached her barely hiding his confusion he was about to compliment her but the words got stuck in his throat when Fiona interrupted him I'm only doing this because of the job sir I want this to be over as soon as possible they got into the car waiting at the entrance the ride was silent Jacob occasionally glanced at Fiona unable to

take his eyes off her unexpected Beauty his heartbeat in syn with every bump in the road he felt strange his sober mind beginning to realize that he had crossed every line and was ruining people's lives for his ridiculous Bets with friends it weighed on him that he involved such a sweet young woman in this he understood that his attempt to use Fiona as a pawn in a bet or game was possibly a mistake Fiona stared out the window her thoughts far away she felt uncomfortable in the role of a forced companion the car arrived at

the event the air was filled with excitement and their arrival did not go unnoticed Jacob's friends seeing him accompanied by Fiona couldn't hide their astonishment they started to mock him certain that Jacob had lost the bet seeing him arrive with such a stunning woman look who's here Jacob did you really lose to us they laughed staring at Fiona you two idiots it's her Jacob snapped turning to his friends while Fiona stood aside trying to hide her embarrassment her appearance the elegant red dress and the sophisticated hairstyle left everyone stunned what no way his friends exclaimed

in disbelief get the money ready Jacob firmly added inviting Fiona inside inside he offered her a drink but she declined saying she didn't drink time passed and the party continued the tension between Jacob and Fiona gradually eased although he still felt awkward about the situation he had put her in for the first time in many years he didn't drink with his friends feeling the strangeness of the moment Fiona listen don't be mad at me yeah I might have overstepped I should have just lost the bet he said Fiona lazily smiled in his Direction while sipping

juice 2 hours later when many guests were already quite drunk one of Jacob's friends began to pest her Fiona the situation quickly escalated when he crudely expressed his desire to buy her attention just like Jacob had without thinking about the consequences Jacob shoved him away from Fiona why are you defending this loser the friend shouted back Fiona shocked and humiliated quickly grabbed her jacket and headed for the exit I fulfilled the agreement it's time for me to go home Jacob tried to follow her but his drunken friends held him back continuing to Mock and wanting

to get to know Fiona better Jacob what are you doing you're ruining all the fun in a fit of anger Jacob punched one of them and ran out of the house but it was already too late the taxi had disappeared into the night Fiona was immersed in her usual work duties when the phone rang at her station answering she heard the familiar voice of Jacob's assistant saying that Mr Jacob was expecting her in his office Fiona's heart sank she didn't know what to expect after the recent events but a sense of of Duty made her

head to his office walking through the corridors that seemed longer than usual Fiona entered Jacob's office he was sitting at his desk looking out the window seemingly deep in thought about something important hearing her footsteps Jacob turned to her his face showed genuine concern fion please have a seat he said softly indicating the chair in front of the desk she obediently sat down tensely waiting for his next words I wanted to apologize you might not believe me but I'm truly sorry what I did it was wrong and I'm ashamed of it he said I acted

foolishly thinking it was just a joke Fiona listened without interrupting she didn't trust a word he said but she couldn't dismiss the possibility that he was genuinely ashamed I promise this will never happen again I'll never threaten your job or bother you in any way Jacob continued his gaze fixed on her face searching for signs of forgiveness Fiona was silent for a moment considering his words all right I accept your apology I hope you keep your word as she stood up from the chair she added you have everything money a job status but you don't

have friends because those idiots at the party have no idea what friendship is Fiona left the office leaving Jacob alone with his thoughts he sat there watching her leave realizing she might be right over time Jacob began to notice that his thoughts were increasingly occupied with Fiona they wouldn't leave him alone especially in Quiet Moments when he was left alone with his thoughts every encounter with Fiona in the hallways of the business center was a moment of excitement for him they exchanged brief greetings but F did not seek to maintain a conversation and quickly returned

to her work Jacob started Ed distancing himself from his old friends those who had once been his constant companions in fun and carefree living He Stopped accepting their invitations choosing instead to spend more time working trying to sort out his feelings and emotions one day he attempted to start a conversation with Fiona when they accidentally met by the elevator Fiona could I have a minute of your time I wanted to but she interrupted him Mr Jacob you promised not to bother me me please keep your word and with that she walked away leaving Jacob standing

in the hallway when his friends Tom and Rick dropped by his office with an invitation to spend the evening in a club like old times Jacob refused more firmly than ever before I need to work I have a lot to do he said not wanting to go into details what's happened to you are you mad at us because of that incident by the way you didn't even get punched in the face Jacob replied that they shouldn't have gotten physical getting physical wait is this all because of the cleaning lady Tom laughed did you fall for

her or something Rick asked mockingly but there was a hint of ridicule in his voice it's none of your business please leave my office Jacob replied with a newfound disdain for his once best friends his friends left exchanging puzzled looks alone Jacob sat in his chair took a deep breath and looked at the city outside his office window the day at the business center started as usual but for Fiona it turned into a series of unpleasant events Jacob's friends felt it was unfair that he was ignoring them and now had to pay for fun and

parties themselves and moreover all of this happened because of some cleaning lady during a coffee break one of Jacob's friends Rick approached her with a mocking offer with a slight smile and a clear intention to humiliate her he began speaking loudly so others could hear Fiona I heard that besides cleaning you offer extra Services I can offer you more than Jacob did but I have special conditions he started making obscene gestures hinting at something inappropriate Fiona felt her face flush with anger and shame she responded firmly and loudly so others could hear go to hell

I'm not who you think I am her voice trembled with rage Rick and his company laughed and ignoring her response slowly walked away this incident was just the beginning rumors about Fiona's supposed activities as an escort spread rapidly throughout the business center mainly fueled by Rick and Tom others simply picked up on what they heard sarcastic comments and mocking glances made every workday a torment Fiona felt the judging and disapproving stares of her colleagues even those who had seemed friendly before she felt that every whisper behind her back and every laugh in her Direction accused

her of something she hadn't done Fiona tried to maintain her composure and dignity but the internal tension grew daily the situation worsened when even some of her closest colleagues began avoiding her fearing being seen near her Fiona increasingly caught herself under scrutinizing gazes and overheard snatches of conversations where her name was mentioned in an unkind context only Martha always supported her telling her to ignore those idiots tears streamed down Fiona's face as she sat in the breakroom beside her trying to comfort her sat Martha the old cleaning lady who had long been like a mother

to her Martha noticing her condition gently hugged her shoulders I'm such a fool Martha I shouldn't have gone to that wedding with Jacob stop beating yourself up you didn't do anything wrong it's those two idiots who made up this nonsense Martha replied you did what seemed right at the moment we all make mistakes Martha said quietly patting her on the back the recent incident in the hallway where one of the business center workers brazenly offered Fiona money four special services was the last straw Fiona felt how every whisper every laughing glance behind her back poisoned

her life there I can't work here anymore Martha I messed everything up it's my fault for agreeing to this I should have said no from the start she continued feeling an out of despairs tightening inside her the old cleaning lady hugged Fiona tightly trying to pass on a bit of her warmth and confidence it's not your fault that people around you don't know how to behave decently you're strong and honest don't let them break you Martha said firmly Fiona pulled away wiping her tears she looked at Martha whose eyes were filled with genuine sympathy and

support I've decided to quit I can't keep coming here every day knowing that No One Believes In My Integrity I need to start fresh somewhere else the heavy atmosphere filled Jacob's office in anticipation of an important meeting he sat at his desk staring at documents that seemed unimportant to him since the parties had disappeared from his life he looked around and realized ized he had nothing his position was given by his father all the expensive things were bought with company money his friends stopped talking to him as soon as he stopped paying for their outings

he knew that Fiona was supposed to come and clean the room before the meeting but instead the old cleaning lady Martha appeared Martha silently started working but occasionally cast heavy judgmental glances at Jacob he couldn't stand it and asked where's Fiona she quit replied curtly not stopping her cleaning because of all this mess with you and your buddies these words hit Jacob like a cold shower what do you mean Fiona and my friends he asked you know exactly what I mean go listen to what they're saying about her now and the rumors they're spreading I

have to fix this he whispered getting ready to go after Fiona but at that moment his father Richard black burst into the office Richard was Furious rumors that his son was turning employees into subjects for bets and games had reached him and he was truly angry what kind of behavior is this jacob what are you doing to our company to our people this is your last warning Richard's voice echoed through the room I can't trust you with management anymore you're demoted and now I will control every step you take I will find you a wife

myself before you completely ruin everything with your parties and you'll do everything I say or I'll fire you Jacob feeling a mix of resentment and Liberation responded with unexpected determination you can't make me marry someone you choose and you can't fire me because I'm quitting Richard looked at his son in shock are you serious yes I'm serious I'm resigning you've controlled every step of mind since childhood I think I've had enough he walked out of the office leaving his father deep in thought Fiona was sitting in her modest dorm room flipping through newspaper pages in

search of a new job the mood was Grim the prospect of starting over in a new place seen daunting but one thing was clear there would no longer be those humiliating Whispers and jeers that led her to resign a sudden knock on the door pulled her out of her thoughts Fiona got up walked to the door and not expecting anyone specific opened it her surprise was boundless when she saw Jacob standing on the threshold what are you doing here she asked barely containing herself grabbing an umbrella with the intent to hit him over the head

you promis to leave me alone I quit so I wouldn't have to see you all Jacob raised his hands to Shield himself from a potential blow Fiona please I didn't come to argue I don't work at the company anymore either I'm really sorry for everything that happened his voice sounded sincere but Fiona remained weary I don't need your help and I don't need your apologies if I see you again I will hit you for sure she threatened Jacob smiled well then I'm in trouble because now I'm your neighbor I rented the apartment next door Fiona

lowered the umbrella and pondered for a moment is this some kind of bet with your degenerate friends again no like I said I don't work at the company anymore and I need an affordable place to stay while I look for a job Jacob said liar Fiona shouted sharply and slammed the door Jacob satisfied headed to his apartment he was indeed lying he had enough money to afford the best room in any hotel in the city and he even had his own apartment but he chose to live next door to Fiona to get closer to her

his plan wasn't fully thought out but he decided to play it by ear since Jacob became Fiona's neighbor their accidental Encounters in the dorm became part of their new routine every time they met in the corridor Fiona averted her gaze and cut off any attempts to talk to her but as time passed she started to slowly forget her past resentment despite her initial doubts and distrust Fiona began to notice that she couldn't help but smile when she saw Jacob in the shared kitchen trying to cook for himself of course he could have ordered food but

he cooked in the kitchen just to run into Fiona Jacob had never cooked before his attempts to make something simple often ended in minor disasters splattered oil burnt toast or broken dishes during one such moment Fiona couldn't help but comment you're so clumsy the only thing you know how to do is count money her words though said with a light teasing tone made Jacob smile he looked how Fiona struggled to hold back her laughter you're going to cut off all your fingers she said Fiona sighed but her lips curled into a half smile she came

closer took the knife and started to carefully slice the potatoes for the fried potatoes Jacob was trying to make you know I never had to cook for myself there were always people who did it for me what a surprise Fiona giggled slicing the large chunks of potatoes Jacob had cut that evening they had their first heartfelt conversation and Jacob's plan worked over time the interaction between Fiona and Jacob grew warmer and more trusting Jacob often defended Fiona when local drunks in the dorm harassed her once he helped her rearrange her room sometimes they went shopping

together and he helped her carry heavy bags of groceries fion was increasingly puzzled by this jacob seemed like a completely different person from the one she met at the business center his care didn't go unnoticed and one day she decided to invite him to dinner as a token of gratitude she knew Jacob was a terrible cook but made it a condition that he would be the one to prepare dinner he eagerly accepted the challenge Fiona watched over the process vigilantly but the moment she was distracted Jacob managed to mess something up the result was far

from perfect dry meat on the pan and oddly cooked Vegeta but it only added warmth to their evening sitting across from each other at the table Fiona couldn't help but smile seeing his efforts when are you going to end this circus and go back to your Palace she asked half jokingly half seriously trying to hide her genuine curiosity about his motives Jacob put his Fork down and looked at her with a seriousness that made her slightly uneasy I'm not going back Fiona I've realized that all these years I was unhappy happy I was forced into

a role that doesn't suit me my life was just like yours we're both prisoners of our circumstances Fiona listened frowning trying to understand his words I always wanted to do something different but everyone always expected serious decisions from me the kind of businessman should make I went to kindergarten already destined to be the boss of all bosses this world its expectations they exhausted me I want to start over where I can be myself where I can breathe freely he continued his eyes burning with genuine passion and honesty Fiona remained silent processing his words and you

think you can find your new path here at Rock Bottom you seriously believe that yes I believe I can here among ordinary people among real life here I feel alive not like in that golden cage I escaped from Jacob answered confidently dinner ended and they continued talking long into the night discussing music life and their dreams that evening became a turning point for both of them allowing them to see each other in a new light and find the understanding they had previously lacked in this new phase of their relationship Fiona and Jacob found ways to

connect not just emotionally but also through the everyday details of Life Jacob's suggestion that Fiona become his personal cook initially seemed absurd to her he claimed that the professional chef at his former home earned $5,000 and since she was in his opinion an amateur he offered her 2,000 amateur Fiona protested with a touch of irony in her voice she gave him a light smack on the head which made him laugh genuinely I can cook better than any trained Chef she declared thinking he was joking but when she saw him counting the money she realized his

offer was serious eventually she agreed giving this new aspect of their relationship a playful and experimental tone soon their evenings were filled not only with conversation but also with joint culinary experiments Jacob turned out to be not so bad at helping in the kitchen when Fiona took on the role of Mentor they spent time cooking and dining together which only strengthened their bond almost every evening they walked in the park or along the Waterfront Fiona especially loved going to the zoo Jacob was surprised to discover that he had never been to the zoo and didn't

even know there was one in their City how would you know Fiona laughed you guys are only used to going to clubs and bars remembering the clubs Jacob jokingly suggested going to one Fiona smacked him on the head when will you stop hitting me Jacob asked surprised when you stop talking nonsense and doing fo foolish things Fiona grumbled frowning Jacob smiled and they headed toward their home on one of their dates while walking in the park Under The Starry Sky Jacob took Fiona's hand he felt his heart beat faster with each touch that evening under

the rustling trees and The Whisper Of The Wind Fiona gave him their first kiss the moment was magical for both and Jacob feeling her lips on his felt happier than ever the evening air was cool as f on and Jacob slowly walked home from the park their conversation was filled with future plans and dreams each step deepening their closeness and understanding however the calm of the moment was suddenly interrupted by the appearance of an expensive car that stopped next to them Richard black Jacob's father stepped out of the car his expression Stern Jacob looked at

his father in amazement not understanding how he had found them or what he wanted I'm fine and I'm not coming back to the company Jacob began but his father cut him off sharply no one is asking you to come back I'm not here for you I'm here for Fiona Jacob was even more surprised and completely lost as to what was happening I apologize for the unexpected visit but I have important business with you Fiona I found out that my son unfortunately put you in a very unpleasant situation I want to make things right he began

his voice calm and confident Jacob listening to his father was stunned I offer you the position of head of the technical staff at our business center this will be your chance to start a new career in a field where you already have some experience Richard continued addressing Fiona Fiona bewildered by the offer struggled to find words to express her thoughts and feelings she felt caught off guard I I don't know what to say it's a big step Richard interrupted her noticing her doubts don't worry about the rumors or the situation caused by this fool I

personally guarantee that no one will dare accuse you of anything inappropriate anyone spreading lies will be immediately fired I know the offer is unexpected but I advise you to think about it as soon as possible Richard said goodbye to Fiona gave his son a stern look and left what the hell was that Jacob stunned sat down on a bench the head of the corporation himself came all the way here to hire a manager of what kind of position is that anyway Fiona sat down next to him you know I have the same questions with growing

anxiety Fiona walked through the corridors of Richard Black's Business Center everything was very familiar since she had worked there as a cleaner practically nothing had changed it was the day of her interview for the position of head of staff and she couldn't shake the feeling that she wasn't ready for such a job the experience in personnel management and the knowledge of these processes seemed like unattainable heights to her facing Richard in his office she honestly expressed her concerns Mr Black I'm grateful for your offer but I don't have the necessary education and experience for such

a position I'm afraid I just won't manage she admitted expecting his disappointment or even irritation however Richard's reaction was unexpected he smiled nodded and calmly replied I Believe In You Fiona there's much more potential in each of us than we can imagine yes you will have to learn a lot and quickly but I'm confident you can handle it you have to handle it this kind of opportunity comes once in a lifetime Fiona although thrown off by his confidence in her abilities couldn't deny that the offer was enticing all right I'll I'll do my best not

to let you down she said feeling her confidence growing inside Fiona was about to leave but then suddenly stopped can I ask don't you want to reinstate Jacob to his previous position Richard sighed his gaze becoming more Melancholy Jacob has shown complete irresponsibility besides I didn't fire him he resigned on his own and rightly so as he is absolutely unfit for such a high position perhaps if he asks to come back himself then I'll consider it Fiona smiled slightly embarrassed you and Jacob are very alike both excessively proud and his pride won't let him ask

to come back but he's not the same slacker he used to be Mr Black perhaps Mr Richard said not taking his eyes off the documents she got up preparing to leave the office I'll do my best to justify your trust Mr black thanks again for the chance she said and left leaving him alone with his thoughts Fiona returned home filled with excitement and exhilaration her steps were light and joyful as she hurried away from the business center Jacob was waiting for her with news she rushed into his arms I now have a real responsible job

she exclaimed barely letting go of him not like your silly offer to work as a personal chef without a contra medical insurance or benefits Jacob though happy for her couldn't resist a playful retort hey cut me some slack at least I have a good salary Fiona smirked in response well yeah fair enough their conversation shifted to dinner sitting at the table she unexpectedly asked don't you want to try to get back you can't just sit without a job sooner or later even your savings will run out Jacob shook his head no I don't want to

I don't need a job right now and when I do I'll act accordingly seeing his hesitation Fiona gently tapped him on the head like an old friend and said you and your dad are two stubborn mules and maybe you're destined to inherit all of his Endeavors because you're so alike don't mess it up where you'll end up at the dock working as a long shoreman Jacob laughed in response but Fiona's words made him think he began to sort through his thoughts and understand that he and his father were indeed similar and that his grandfather had

also passed on all his responsibilities to his son and that Richard had been prepared for great achievements since childhood maybe you're right he admitted of course I'm right Fiona replied cheerfully I have to go to work tomorrow and you Mr proud unemployed will have to fend for yourself now Jacob had nothing to do during dur the times when Fiona was at work he pondered over everything that had happened and decided to visit his old apartment where he used to live the Silence of the apartment where Jacob returned for the first time after a long absence

seemed almost tangible everything around reminded him of his past life of times when he didn't worry about anything Dusty boxes in the corner of the living room caught his attention opening one of them he found old photo albums full of black and white pictures of his his father and grandfather he thought that when he lived here he had never opened them once page after page the photos told stories of the past filled with hardships and successes The Gaze of his young father in one of the photos especially struck him strict and too adult for his

age Jacob realized that his father's childhood was much harsher than his own from an early age his father was immersed in training and activities not knowing the joys of childhood it seemed that there wasn't a single photo in the album where Richard played with toys or swung on swings reflecting on how his ancestors Rose from the bottom striving to provide future generations with a life they could only dream of Jacob felt a wave of Shame for his behavior he realized that he was not only rejecting the family business but also the essence of his ancestors

efforts under the influence of these Reflections Jacob sat down at the computer and began to study how to write a resume correctly after several unsuccessful attempts and numerous Corrections he finally filled out the necessary forms and closed the documents for job application in an envelope and Gathering his courage went to his father's office Richard was sitting in his office dealing with daily tasks when the slightly bewildered secretary burst in after a knock what's going on where's the fire he asked sternly sir we have a situation here we need your advice the whole HR department doesn't

know what to do please calm down and explain specifically what's happening Mr Richard started considering options in his head trying to figure out what could have gone wrong your son I mean Mr Jacob came to apply for a job but he was the company's leader not long ago and our boss and we just don't know what to do she exhaled and looked questioningly at Richard after a long pause he laughed loudly picked up the phone and called the HR department asking them to send Jacob to his office he dismissed the secretary still laughing Jacob entered

his old office which had now become his workplace again the space seemed simultaneously unfamiliar and wildly familiar to him he examined the desk chairs even the small items on the shelves that had always been there but he had never paid attention to before at that moment Fiona rushed into the office with documents in her hands you need to sign these by lunch she quickly said handing him the folder her eyes sparkled with diligence and Mild irony before Jacob could reply she kissed him on the cheek and just as quickly disappeared leaving behind only a trail

of a fresh fragrance of perfume she hadn't used before smiling to himself Jacob settled into the chair it wasn't even a minute before his father knocked on the door Richard entered with a serious expression and sat down opposite him no more slack no more partying Jacob you will work harder than ever to justify my trust and not get kicked out of this chair again he began but there was not only strictness in his voice but also hidden relief that his son was taking charge Jacob smiled in response I'm not afraid of getting fired dad I

recently found out that I'm perfectly capable of living in Spartan conditions if anything I'll find a job as a dock worker and return to my dormatory his father laughed leaning back in his chair I can't believe you lived in a dorm giving up all the Comforts of your luxurious Penthouse and I can hardly believe it myself Jacob replied and they both laughed as if there had never been a gap of Mis understanding between them nevertheless Richard quickly got down to business you can't afford to lose your job because I won't allow my HR manager to

marry an unemployed man I was just about to ask you about that position I've never seen it mentioned in any documentation or invoices Jacob waited for an answer with interest we didn't have such a position before I introduced it specifically for Fiona his father replied and settled more comfortably in his chair Jacob looked at him in Surprise yes specifically for her when I found out what you and your friends idiots did I decided to fix it but she beat me to it and quit I wanted to bring her back immediately but then you quit and

I decided to wait a little my people were constantly monitoring you too and Reporting everything that was happening at some point I realized that Fiona is the perfect wife for you all that was left was to wait for you to come running back but you turned out to be as stubborn as a mule then I thought of taking Fiona away from you this way I killed two birds with one stone I motivated you to come back and gave her the opportunity to settle scores with her tormentors Jacob laughed even louder but then added seriously I've

been thinking of proposing to her for a while Dad Richard relaxed his face lit up with satisfaction then let's get some whiskey I know you have a bottle hidden somewhere here as they poured themselves a glass and clinked Fiona burst into the office she had forgotten to leave a couple of forms on the desk seeing them drinking in the middle of the work day she frowned walked up to Jacob and jokingly tapped him on the head why are you drinking in the middle of the work day Jacob quickly replied dad ordered me to he's the

big boss around here to which Richard laughed and said it wasn't him but Jacob who was back to his old tricks with a smile on her face Fiona remarked at this rate I'll be the boss here very soon and fire both of you