Chapter 5 The Devil Queen ii

...At Emine's Office......

In a separate office space, an exquisite lady graced her surroundings, her countenance radiating an air of seriousness. Beside her, her loyal secretary stood patiently, awaiting her every command.

"Mildred, why did Mr. James suddenly alter his stance?" she inquired, her curiosity piqued.

"My sincere apologies, madam. It was my fault. When I sent the file to him, he attempted to harass me, but I adamantly refused. He threatened not to sign the documents in retaliation." Mildred recounted the incident to her employer.

"Oh, how audacious of Mr. James to harass my secretary. You acted admirably. I refuse to stoop to the level of a scoundrel. You may leave," she waved her hand impatiently. As her secretary exited the office, she picked up her phone and dialed the wrong number.

"I want you to sever the right hand of Mr. James Cook, the CEO of James Company. Make sure it is accomplished by tomorrow," she ordered, her voice cold and detached.

"Yes, queen," the stranger responded eagerly before abruptly ending the call. It had been too long since he embarked on a mission, and idleness had weighed heavily upon him. Although the task was not significant, it would at least provide him with the satisfaction of hearing someone's anguished cry. "Who is this poor lucky guy, guess I am going to have a little fun tonight."

Emine glanced at the documents her secretary had brought and proceeded to sign the ones requiring her approval. Amidst the stack, her attention was captivated by a particular file. "How intriguing, it has arrived sooner than expected," she mused, her chin resting upon her palm, her lashes veiling a rebellious spark in her sorrowful eyes. "The tiger has fallen into the lioness's trap," she scoffed, summoning her secretary once again.

"When was this document delivered?" she asked and showed the file to her.

"The file was delivered by the personal secretary of the CEO of Clark's company."

"I see, and when was that?"

"Yesterday afternoon, miss."

"Very well, you may leave," Emine nodded, her thoughts delving deep into contemplation.

Although she had prepared herself to confront the devil, she had not anticipated it happening so soon. Regardless, no one could deter her plans; she would make him beg for forgiveness and ensure the destruction of everything dear to him. In a fit of frustration, she snapped the poor pen she held in her hand. Once her work was completed, she headed straight for her house.

"My beautiful queen, you've returned at last! I thought you might end up sleeping at the office. I've been waiting for you," Sandra greeted her with a joyful embrace.

"Have you ever known me to spend the night at the office? I'm not aiming to replace Bill Gates," Emine playfully tapped her friend's forehead.

Sandra was the only person with whom she could truly be herself, revealing her vulnerabilities and finding solace in their friendship. As childhood friends, Sandra had been the only one to search for her when she went missing.

"Tsk, tsk, who said I wanted to become stronger and seek revenge?" Sandra shook her head and said.

"Of course, I haven't forgotten that promise. I will undoubtedly become the most influential figure on this planet, but I won't sacrifice my sanity by working all night. Rest is necessary," Emine declared confidently, puffing her chest out.

"Oh, that's mine... Oh my, you're something," Sandra sighed with a mixture of relief and pride, as though an old woman pleased with her daughter's growth. She affectionately ruffled Emine's hair, provoking a hint of anger.

"Sandra, if you dare touch my hair again, I won't hesitate to break your hands," Emine warned in a threatening tone.

Why must Sandra always treat her like a pet, constantly patting her head?

"But, Emine, you ought to find yourself a boyfriend. You're not getting any younger. Do you intend to become a nun?"

"Becoming a nun wouldn't be so bad. At least no one could break my heart," Emine retorted, a wistful smile tugging at her lips.

"Shit! You fool! You dare to become a nun? Don't you realize I yearn for goddaughters? You're denying me that privilege!" Sandra exclaimed, exasperated, throwing her purse in Emine's direction. She had always dreamt of being a godmother and had even dreamt of it the night before.

"Huh, yes a nun?" Emine scoffed, giving Sandra a stern look akin to a protective mother hen.

"Easy, easy! I was just joking about becoming a nun. I'll adopt babies who can be your goddaughters since you want them so badly," Emine teased, thoroughly enjoying Sandra's reaction.

"Who asked you to adopt children? You better change your mind before I unfriend you," Sandra warned playfully before making her way to the kitchen.

"Why is she acting like a mother?" Emine pondered.

How could she explain to her best friend that she might not be able to conceive after what happened five years ago? How could she share her loss of hope in love, her reluctance to open her heart again? Her heart had shattered into countless pieces, and even if she tried to glue them back together, it would never be as whole as it once was.

"Emine, you never told me about this," Sandra's words snapped Emine out of her thoughts.

"About what?" Emine inquired, curiosity piqued.

"I didn't know you would be collaborating with Clark's company. Are you going to be all right" Sandra expressed her concern.

"Of course, why wouldn't I be? I am mentally prepared for anything," Emine asserted with confidence. But deep within, she questioned her own conviction. Would she truly be alright?

"Babe, don't push yourself if you feel overwhelmed. I'll always be by your side," Sandra reassured her, holding her hands tightly.

Emine was moved by her friend's words. Having grown up in an orphanage, no one had ever uttered such supportive sentiments to her.

"Don't worry, Sandy. I'm fine," she assured her.

.........

Today marked the day of the crucial meeting. Aiden and his directors impatiently occupied the conference room, waiting for the arrival of the CEO of the Blay family. An hour had passed, and she had yet to make an appearance. Although Aiden was inclined to cancel the meeting due to the other CEO's apparent lack of seriousness, something within him urged him to wait.

With a crack, the door swung open, revealing the stunning lady who surpassed the very goddess of beauty. Silence enveloped the room as all eyes were drawn to her presence.

"Wow," gasps escaped their lips in unison.

The board of directors stood mesmerized, unable to tire of gazing upon her exquisite face. Even Aiden, who had risen intending to leave, found himself frozen in disbelief. Time seemed to halt, the room enveloped in silence