Mikaela Boyd owned a quiet strength that resonated with everyone she came in contact with. One could say it was her good luck charm that aided with forming seamless bonds with all her staff. She thought them friends and not so much as employees or rivals. A company couldn't thrive that way, especially working in the underbelly of things. The foundation would be the first spot that's attacked and if found weak, those at the top wouldn't stand a chance. That's why I was assigned here, to prevent that from happening, whether from the inside or out.
Though we are never seen, we worker bees keep the core firm, keep all employees safe from threats. But what I'm good at, what I've been piecing together for the past six years are mucked up accounting records of which predated my arrival. I'm amazed Bourne Inc. hasn't folded long ago. I'm operating under the assumption that the CEO hasn't a clue of what's been going on right under his nose. This is the sole reason why I was hired and once my job is done, I'll happily pass it on to someone I believe will be unmovable in her conviction of making this company better. She's still rough around the edges, but I have no doubt she'll catch on and smooth out just enough as she goes along.
Though I accepted this position as just another worker, I've gotten drained of working in secrecy. I'm committed to finishing what I've started but I know it will cause major dissension once these records are exposed. I hate leaving under these circumstances like a thief in the night. But, it must be done to suture a hemorrhaging business.
A gentle knock pushes me from my heavily concerned heart to the door to find the man who hired me waiting with the same genuine smile plastered across his face."May I come in?"
"Sure." I say as I step aside.
"How are you?"
"Ah, I'm still here. What brings you down from on high Mr. Higgins?"
"I thought we were past formalities. You're suppose to call me Jack."
"Right, Jack." I laugh. "How can I assist you?"
"Well, straight to it then. There is one more thing I need you to do. It's nothing hard."
"Okay..."
"There is a party, if you will, that I need you to attend. Just as an observer. I want you to tell me if you see or feel anything or anyone that is, ah, off."
"What or who exactly am I looking for?"
"I'll let your instincts be the judge. I trust them and I trust you. The soiree is tomorrow night. Can you make it?"
"Sure. I don't have anything planned."
"Good, good. I'll make sure you get in without a hitch. The party starts at seven thirty sharp. I'll have the company car pick you up."
"No, that won't be necessary. I'll find my own way. But, thank you Jack."
"Are you sure?"
"I insist."
"Anyone other woman have chomped at the bit to indulge in all the luxuries that come with this position."
"Well, I'm not just any woman," I wag my finger, "and if I was, you wouldn't have selected me for the job."
"Touche. Just know you're doing the right thing even if you earn scorn in the process."
"Yes, sir, er, Jack."
He chuckles, "I'll let you get back to work." I wave and watch Jack shut the door behind him. I exhale a heavy sigh. He reminds me of the father I wish I'd had. Jack really protects the CEO as if he were his own son. I've never had anyone like that and I hope the CEO cherishes that kind of bond. Not everyone finds something like that in the entirety of their life.
I turn my attention back to the task at hand, combing through more financial records and wondering what I could possibly have hidden in my closet to wear to a party full of frauds and materialists.
YOU ARE READING
The Angel Below [Complete]
Short StoryA chance encounter blew his life open, again.