The Contagious

2°

"Seven days have passed, and what were you up to? I gave you a full week without a single heads-up," Alleia remarked in a composed yet firm tone within the meeting room. "Don't assume I didn't keep an eye on you. What's your nightly routine, Mr. Horon? I couldn't care less, but remember your responsibilities; you work for me. Don't like it? Walk!" She expressed her profound disappointment in one of her top-performing workers. "This behavior is utterly unexpected, Mr. Horon."

"Apologies, it's my fault. I promise not to repeat this," Mr. Horon responded, clearly embarrassed and regretful, his gaze fixed downward on the table.

"This is a major project, and now it's going to be delayed. I had high expectations for this project to wrap up by year-end. You've let me down. That's a home for orphans," Alleia tried to maintain composure, suppressing her emotions from getting the better of her.

"I gave you time without a warning, and what? You exploited the opportunity I provided. Give me all the updated documents by tonight!" Alleia gave Mr. Horon a piercing glare and dismissed him from the meeting room, a moment of evident embarrassment for him."Now, onto the China project. Any intel on the new CEO?" Alleia shifted focus, striving to remain professional and avoid casting her frustration on an unsuspecting member.

"Ms. Wilson, is it true the new CEO will take Ms. Darniella's place at Wu's?" Inquired some of the staff. "Isn't it her brother?"

"Yes, indeed. There's a new CEO, but I'm uncertain about the details," Alleia responded. "Oh, by the way, we've expanded our business to several countries. Let's aim for even greater performance next time. I'm deeply grateful to each of you. Thank you for today; the meeting's adjourned. You may leave," Alleia sighed, feeling overwhelmed with numerous responsibilities swirling in her mind.

*Knock, knock!*

"Come in," Alleia welcomed.

"Looks like a busy day, Ms. Board Director?" Alleia greeted Darnielle warmly.

"Darnielle, it's been ages. We only seem to meet at meetings, annual dinners, or special events," Alleia remarked, rising to exchange a customary kiss on Darnielle's cheek.

"Hey, I'm more than just a businesswoman; I'm a wife and a mother too. When's your turn for marriage?" Darnielle teased, eliciting a chuckle from Alleia.

"I'll think about it," Alleia responded with a smile.

"You're just like my brother Daniel."

"Daniel? Your brother? Wait, Wu Daniel?" Alleia was taken aback to hear that from Darnielle.

"Yes, I'm married now, so my name is Wu Darnielle. But before that, it was Yong. My brother is Daniel Yong, the upcoming CEO who'll replace me. Remember that?" Darnielle explained, while Alleia attempted to piece together the information.

"Daniel Yong? Your brother? The new CEO? Oh yes, of course. How silly of me," they both laughed together."Daniel Yong? Darnielle's sibling, my potential rival? The person Uncle had mentioned? What a small world," Alleia mused silently, feeling a rush of emotions.

"Tomorrow's the event, and I came to make sure you'll be there. No excuses, like last time. That's your company, and you need to represent. Not a request, it's an order," Darnielle firmly stated.

"That's your company, not mine. Mine is right here," Alleia smiled genuinely. "As far as I know, every decision is in your hands, Mrs. Wu."Alleia always reminded herself that she wasn't the company's owner but someone striving to genuinely elevate its reputation without seeking any personal gains.

She kept avoiding attending board meetings or discussions about the new CEO's appointment, as it held little importance to her.

"Alleia, it's ours. You've done so much for that company. I'm truly grateful, and I'll never do anything behind your back. Wǒ fāshì (I promise)," Mrs. Wu spoke while raising three fingers, signifying her commitment.