CHAPTER 9

                                    

                                          


HOPE
"Oh, hi," I smiled as Henerson's secretary, Dyna, came into view. The young lady politely smiled back as she approached.
"I'm sorry to keep you waiting. Mr. Whales is on leave today," she said, sadly, and I sighed in disappointment.
This was the third day I'd tried visiting Henerson, using the beach house as an excuse to see him. But that man is so sneaky.
It's been a month since we last saw each other. I've been patient, giving him the time he needed to tell me what's going on, but now, I finally lost it. I probably seem desperate, but I really am. 
Sighed.
If only his apartment was not that strict, I would have sneaked in there instead.
If he wants to play hide and seek, fine. So be it. I'll play along then.
"Umm sir, if you don't mind me asking," Dyna said hesitantly, "May I know what your relationship is with Mr. Whales?"
I blinked at her at the unexpected question, and she blushed, shyly.
"I-it's just that he treats you differently, so... I-I'm sorry if I overstepped—"
"Oh, it's fine. I just used to work under him," I said, offering a smile. She stared at me, clearly waiting for more, but I let the silence linger until she got the hint. "That's all."
I don't think it's safe to say that her boss and I used to date and fuck in their office anyway. Her curiosity won her over.
"I-I see..." she trailed off.  "How was he back then? Y-you see, he's always mad and short-tempered..."
Oh...
"I've always had the feeling that I'm doing something," she said sadly. "Do you have any advice on how I can get him to like me, even just a little?"
The last part felt a little weird to me, but I guessed it was just an innocent question.
"To be honest, I'm not sure if it still works, since he's changed a lot since I last saw him," I said hesitantly. But her eyes were so pleading, so... "You can always start with a hot cup of brewed coffee in the morning. Once he's finished, then begin with your report. No matter how urgent the bad news is, never start with it," I advised, and she nodded attentively.
"He likes his schedule to be set for the week, and it must be submitted every Thursday morning. That way, any adjustments can be made by Friday." I tapped my chin, trying to recall more details. "Never answer him without confidence. He hates that. If you're unsure about something, tell him you'll get back to him in an hour or so. He also likes another cup of coffee around 3 p.m., but you can ask him first. Oh, and always keep your workspace clean!"
She was listening attentively and I smiled.
"It's been three years, so that's about all I can remember. Sorry."
"Oh no! This is great advice, I really appreciate it!" she said eagerly.
I chuckled.
"I'll make sure to keep all that in mind... Sorry for taking up your time. Will you be coming back tomorrow?" Her eyes widened with curiosity.
"We've got a big party tonight, so I probably won't be able to make it tomorrow." I glanced at my watch. "Please let Henerson know I'm waiting for his call." I gave her one last friendly smile before leaving.
Dyna is such a lovely girl, but there's something about her that feels... off. Maybe it's just my jealousy creeping up.
Yeah, that must be it.