June was dropped off at JL Architectures headquarters. Lucy stood in front of the building with other employees who waited to welcome the CEO and boss they had expected for so long.
Lucy smiled as soon as she saw June highlight from the vehicle, “Quick! She’s here! Greet her properly!”
June was stunned when a pop sound reached the air and diced sparkling papers rained upon her.
“Welcome back to JL, Miss!” They all chorused with stunning smiles that melted June’s heart.
Standing between them were some employees she identified, Joel Patel and some other designers she hired during the start of the business. They were all so happy and showered her with flowers and gifts that brought tears to her eyes.
“Thank you so much,” June said, moved by their bold display. “You are all so beautiful.”
“You are welcome, ma’am!” Some said while others smiled warmly.
The entire office was decorated to suit the welcoming party atmosphere. The inscription, welcome back to your world, Miss Rivera, was boldly written on the decorated walls.
Even her office was decorated and in the best state. June felt so happy, she hugged Lucy who she knew planned all the surprises.
“Thank you,” June said for the nth time, “thanks to everyone. I didn’t expect this.”
“After everything you’ve been through, this is the least we could do.” Lucy said, “We are happy you are back.”
“I am happy to be back too.” June smiled, even though Rafael had yet to wake and she wondered about the situation with Mrs Beatrice, Sharon and her sister who was out of prison, she was glad to experience such joy amid everything.
“This is a special day.” June looked at the time, it was a few minutes to noon. “I think the employees should take the day off.”
Lucy smiled at June. That was the caring boss she knew and loved. “That would be wonderful. I’ll pass the information along.” She said, easily skipping back to her role as assistant.
“We need to leave now to catch up with lunch at the state house,” Lucy said. “The president will be expecting us.”
June nodded, and soon, they got behind a sleek luxury car and the driver drove them out of the company premises.
While on the road, Lucy briefed June on everything she needed to know about the company. The most important updates and things the president did to aid the company to the international heights it now boasts of.
In all, June was incredibly impressed and grateful to Lucy for her hard work and intelligence displayed in leadership.
Soon enough, they got to the state authority and went in to see the president who was waiting in the dining room. June and Lucy presented themselves to him with a smile and joined him for lunch.
“Miss Rivera, congratulations on your recovery.” He said with a smile. “I’m glad that you are back to health.”
“Thank you, sir,” June spoke with humility. “I am glad to meet you. I appreciate your help towards me and my partner after the accident. As well as to my company.”
“Don’t mention.” The president said, “You see, my late wife was once a victim of an elevator incident. Unfortunately, her death was instant. When I heard the grievous news, I had to ensure that the best was given to the victims.”
“Especially when the ones involved have made valuable contributions to the economic growth of South City. I’m glad that my efforts were not in vain.”
June’s heart was filled with gratitude. “Thank you, sir. Words fail to quantify how much this means to me. I am sorry for your loss.”
The president waived it off, “Don’t feel so bad, my wife died a long time ago. I hope that your partner wakes up too. Your life is a miracle.”
June nodded and they continued eating. The workers took away the plates after the meal and the president led them outdoors.
“I know you must be wondering why I invited you over.” The president said when they settled on some outdoor seats.
“I heard about the resort project and how your company was unfairly taken out of the race for your fugitive sister, April Lontoc.”
“I wanted to apologise for the terrible job carried out by the South City Resort Project panel, and invite you to take on the South City Resort project before I was notified of your unfortunate incident.”
“I understand that this might be sudden as I never told your assistant my intentions, but I would love you to work with a new team to create a resort, just like the Fernando estate resort.”
“Other than that, I am willing to grant you whatever you ask as compensation for the embarrassment the former team caused you and your company by questioning your credibility and writing you off without adequate investigation.”
June remained silent while Lucy’s mouth almost hit the jaw. The president continues. “Please consider my request and let me know whenever you have a request.”
June couldn’t believe her ears. Although she clearly remembered how she was set up by the conjoined efforts of Clarence, the minister of work and his angry wife, she had let it go the moment they were brought to Justice.
“I feel honoured and glad for the kindness you have shown me, sir.” June started with a smile, “You are indeed a great and visionary leader.”
“However, I bear no grudges concerning the past events. I would love to work with your team to create the resort but you must know that my skills might be a bit rusty,”
“Oh forget it!” The president said, calling her bluff. “I trust your expert hands. As long as you are in charge of the project, I will rest assured.”
June was flattered as well as honoured. “I appreciate your confidence in me. I promise to work hard with my team to ensure a satisfactory delivery.”
“Great! That’s what I want to hear. You can contact me when you have your request.” The president stood up but June stopped him.
“I don’t think that would be necessary, Mr president.” A warm smile. “You have shown me enough kindness.”
“Nonsense! I insist. Whatever it is, just say the word and it will be done.” The president said. “I’m afraid I have a meeting now if you’ll excuse me.”
June watched the president leave with his security before leaving the state house with Lucy. They got into the car and June wore a thoughtful countenance.
Lucy ached to know what her boss’s request would be but knew better than to speak about it just yet. June seemed to be in deep thought. For the rest of the ride, she worked on her phone leaving June to her thoughts.