Certainly Mr Frederick Holland is the happiest man today. When he entered the office, every one noticed his pleasant face. He used to be either sad or cold. The staffs were not familiar with any other expression on his face.
"Good morning" he wished them. They were not even able to wish him back, they were standing still, as if frozen.
He reached his cabin and reclined to his chair.
Ms Claire reported and Fred gave some instructions to her.
The branch number 82 issue has been solved by this time and the person who complained about it has withdrawn her complaint.
She gave him an envelop.
"Sir, I am planning to resign from this job. Please accept my resignation. I have a notice period of 2 months from today and kindly arrange someone whom I can hand over the job."
She has been in a key position and so work handover is important.
Fred's lips curved up, "Have you got any new job?". He had no plans to let her go because she is a weapon to give Joan a slap.
Claire: Not yet. (She did not expect such a question from him.)
Fred: What makes you take a decision too soon?
Claire: I have personal reasons.
Fred: Sort of??
Claire: I am planning to move to City D.
Fred: Oh, if you quit, then how can you help Joan in destroying SM?
Both eyes popped out of her socket when she heard this.
Claire: Mr Holland, what are you saying? I never had any such intentions. After all you know I always stood by your side to help you. I hope you remember the result manipulation is still now a secret. If I wanted to destroy SM, I could have done earlier. Even I can do it now. But I am not like that. I need a change.
Fred: Yes, yes. I accept you stood by me during that time. But you know one thing Claire, my eyes are always behind your movements. I know well who you are meeting with, who you are talking to etc. Do you know that. I told you to manipulate it because I am sure you will inform the same to Joan. You worked for her. You spied on me, my personal life and else. I know you from the kindergarten years. I know how cunning you are and you are the best friend of Joan. How can I let you go without paying you back for the things you have done on my back??? Do you think I am a fool?
He tore the envelop to pieces and put it in the waste bin.
Claire: I want to leave. I obeyed her because I was threatened.
Fred: Come on Claire, Don't come up with new stories. I know you are good in making them.
Claire: (with a disgusted face) I know you well. How can I not help Joan. She helped to save my brother to some extend from his disease. I have some obligations to her. Hence I have to obey her. You even do not know what is happening in your subordinate's life. Of course, with your status it is not something mandatory. I do not think I could serve her any more from here. I quit.
Fred: You can't.
Claire: Let me go, why you are doing like this?
Fred: Because I am the all forgiving. Claire, you have to be here for another six months. I will help you go out after that. I am ready to provide every support to help your brother. I need you to continue as my assistant but never betray me and my company. Can you?
Claire did not say a word. She remained silent.
Fred: Go to your work. I am happy to give you another chance. You know the amount quoted by us for our new venture. Only you and me knows that. I want that to be approved before you leaving here. Never trust Joan, she will betray you. She is cunning. You fell into her trap. I understand. Be careful. Have you informed her you are quitting?
Claire: I did. She also know about your marriage with Lea. I have finished my job now. I am quitting.
Fred: Tell Joan that I requested you to stay for six months more to get the new secretary trained. I will inform Joy regarding new appointment. Never tell her anything about the new tie up we are going to get. Also Claire, I know what sort of relationship you had in mind towards me.
Claire: I a sorry Fred. I am quitting.