Illuminate

Chapter 1

"May I help you?"

Those were the first words from my mouth as I locked up the news office. Not a surprising question if there is a young stranger watching you at a close proximity.

"Excuse me, but are you Veya Arvin by any chance?"

I stared into those eyes. Blue. I shook my head. Not at him, certainly, but rather to stay focused. I was in somewhat of a hurry. Mainly, I wanted to be off to my apartment and relax the rest of the evening, or maybe finish my letter to Iris, my lifelong best friend.

"Excuse me?"

I returned to the present. "And what business shall you have with me?" I replied.

"I apologize, but I feel I must introduce myself. I am Oliver Grey, and I have heard rumors of a sprightly young lass by your name. I thought I might interest you with a proposal."

I groaned inwardly. "Well, make it snappy."

He looked relieved. "I was wondering if you'd like a job. At least, I am able to offer you one."

I frowned. "So you're basically willing to hire me on the spot with no questions asked because of a rumor you heard about me? What kind of business are you in, anyways?"

"Well, to keep it simple, I'm in my father's business, Grey Enterprising," he explained. "I'm supposed to inherit it when he passes. He's too elderly for his position, though. The truth is, I'm only asking for your services for selfish reasons, but I do care about him. I need him to step down from his position."

I still felt lost. "How does your little plot involve me in any way?"

He considered my statement for a second, then said, "I can't guarantee it will work, but I think you could help me convince him that this is the best decision for the both of us. I've read some of your work. You have quite a way with words."

"Listen, Oliver, I would love to help, but I really must be going. I'll be in touch." I really wanted to get home before dark.

"All right." He pressed a paper card into my palm and walked away.
_____________________________

Once I was safely in my apartment, I reached into my pocket and retrieved Mr. Grey's business card.

I examined it. Nothing special about it, as it was quite simple, but it did have a picture of him. The strange thing is, I could tell even from the picture that he had blue eyes. I found myself staring at the photo for a solid minute before realizing what I was doing.

I slipped the card into a drawer and slumped in the armchair. I was fast asleep the moment my head hit the back.

It was only a few hours later that I was awoken abruptly by a sound I hope I will never have to hear again.