"Why is this person in prison?" Alexander's thin lips curled into a malevolent smile as he posed the question deliberately, relishing the opportunity to manipulate the situation further.
""There was a financial loophole in the company, and reports suggest he manipulated the stock market for his own gain,"" the director replied, keeping his tone as steady as possible. ""Both the I.S.S and the Under Operation of Organization are investigating the matter."" He explained further
""Ensure that this man is treated well,"" Alexander ordered, his voice low and dangerous. ""And make certain no one dares to lay a finger on him again. Is that clear?"" His gaze, deep and evil.
""Yes sir."" the director answered in a humble manner.
---
As Olivia stepped out of the detention center, the wind whipped around her, forcing her to clutch her coat tightly to keep it from being blown away. But the cold gusts were nothing compared to the weight pressing down on her heart, a burden that seemed almost unbearable.
Was this some kind of punishment for a crime her family wasn't even aware they had committed? Were they on the brink of losing everything they had ever cherished?
Thirteen years ago, her father had founded the McQueen Group from nothing, pouring his life into building it through sheer determination and skillful leadership. Under his guidance, the company flourished, becoming a beacon of success. But three years ago, everything had begun to unravel. Financial loopholes appeared like cracks in a dam, and the once-thriving company was now on the verge of collapse. Jason must be behind this, Olivia thought bitterly. He had destroyed her father's legacy and treated her like she was disposable. She vowed to make him pay, to ensure he tasted the bitterness of his own betrayal.
But how? She had no one to turn to, no support to lean on. Was her father's hard work really destined to crumble to dust? The crowd surged around her, a sea of indifferent faces, but all Olivia felt was a deep, disorienting confusion settling in her heart.
The shrill ring of her phone snapped her out of her thoughts, but she ignored it, too lost in her despair to care. It rang persistently, cutting through her misery until, with a frustrated sigh, she yanked it out of her bag and answered without glancing at the caller ID.
""Hey Olivia. Where are you? The social gathering is about to start, and you're the only one missing,"" Nurse Stella's voice came from the other end of the line.
At the mentioning of the social gathering, Olivia's eyes widened slightly. In her turmoil, she had completely forgotten about the gathering. ""I'm almost there, I'm stuck in traffic."" she lied, her voice barely steady as she wiped her reddened eyes.
""You guys can carry on without me. I'll join you in a moment."" Olivia urged.
""Alright, but hurry up, okay? Tonight's dinner is really important, and we have a very special guest,"" Nurse Stella reminded her before hanging up.
---
Night had fallen swiftly, and before she knew it, Olivia was standing outside the venue, the bright lights and bustling energy a stark contrast to the pain raging inside her. She took a deep breath, pushing down her pain as she tried to focus on what lay ahead.
The Mandarin Oriental hotel stood tall as one of New York City's most luxurious five-star establishments. The top floor was a revolving restaurant, offering not only exquisite cuisine but also breathtaking views of the city's skyline. The hotel was also equipped with a swimming pool, hot springs, a spa, and a range of other entertainment facilities. Dining here was a privilege, with a minimum cost of thirty thousand dollars per meal.
Olivia's memories of this place were tinged with nostalgia. She recalled a time when she was seven years old, having won first prize in the national primary school piano competition. Her parents, Ethan and Elizabeth McQueen, were overjoyed by her success and had brought her here to celebrate. They dined at the revolving restaurant on the top floor, where the panoramic view of the city was a sight to behold. At night, the lake below sparkled with the lights of passing cruises, creating a scene of unparalleled beauty.
Now, that joyous memory felt like a distant, blurred illusion. A moment that once existed but could no longer be touched. As she approached the entrance of the hotel, a wave of sadness washed over her, a stark contrast to the happiness she once felt.
The host greeted her warmly as she arrived at the door. ""Good evening, Miss. Do you have a reservation?""
""Yes."" Olivia replied, keeping her voice steady. ""Can you please take me to the private room booked by Director Morris of Alliance Hospital.""
""Certainly, Miss. It's in the revolving restaurant on the top floor. Please follow me."" The host was full of smiles as she spoke.
When Olivia arrived at the revolving restaurant, she noticed Director Morris seated next to the main chair from afar, with Dr Chen sitting beside him. The entire cardiology department had already gathered, except for her.
The director wasn't occupying the main seat, which was an unusual sight. Olivia pondered whether another distinguished guest was expected that evening, a thought that had slipped her mind after Nurse Stella's earlier mention of it.
""Dr McQueen, you're here."" Director Morris greeted her with a welcoming smile.
Olivia returned the smile brightly, though with a hint of apology in her tone. ""Yes, I'm sorry I'm late.""
The director waved her apology away, dismissing it with a friendly gesture. ""Oh no, it's fine. Besides, our honored guest hasn't arrived yet.""
Olivia pulled out a chair and sat down. ""Honored guest? Who is it?"" she inquired, curiosity evident in her voice.
Before the director could respond, the atmosphere in the room shifted as a tall man in a perfectly tailored suit appeared at the entrance. Under the soft glow of the crystal chandelier, his sharp features and alabaster skin made him look almost otherworldly.
The room fell silent. Olivia could vaguely hear the sound of her female colleagues gasping in surprise. The cause of their astonishment was none other than Alexander Ambrose. No one had anticipated his presence. Director Morris had simply mentioned an honorable guest, but revealing it to be Alexander Ambrose left everyone stunned. Everyone except Olivia, whose expression darkened considerably.
""President Ambrose,"" the director stood up with a smile brighter than one reserved for welcoming the President.
""Director Morris,"" Alexander acknowledged, his hand casually resting in his pocket. His very presence exuded an air of nobility, compelling even the often-arrogant director to treat him with the utmost respect.
Following Director Morris's lead, the staff from the cardiology department quickly rose to their feet to greet Alexander. Olivia, though reluctant, managed to smile politely, knowing she needed to keep appearances for the sake of her director.
""Dr McQueen looks exceptionally beautiful tonight."" Alexander remarked after taking his seat, his gaze fixed on her.
Caught off guard, Olivia nearly choked on her water. Inwardly, she cursed. Who was this man? And why did he seem intent on making her life difficult? His very presence threatened to disrupt the peaceful work environment she had tried so hard to maintain. As the room's attention shifted to her, Olivia felt her cheeks flush with anger and embarrassment.
""Thank you for the compliment, President Ambrose,"" Olivia responded with a strained smile. Inside, she was anything but amused.
""You two know each other?"" Director Morris inquired, his tone laced with curiosity. The previous night, Alexander had informed him of his intent to invest over thirty million dollars in Alliance Hospital, news that had kept the director up all night with excitement. Adding to his surprise was Alexander's request to personally invite the entire cardiology department to dinner. The director had eagerly shared this news with his team, his anticipation barely contained.
Before Olivia could deny any connection, Alexander's deep, authoritative voice cut through the air. ""Yes, we do know each other."" His gaze remained fixed on Olivia, who was seated directly opposite him. From his vantage point, he could clearly see the faint blush coloring her fair skin.
""Dr McQueen is young and capable. She is our hospital's youngest main surgeon. Her skills are nothing short of impressive,"" the director interjected, seizing the moment to praise Olivia. He had noticed Alexander's interest in her and was keen to highlight her achievements.
The director's words only heightened Olivia's discomfort. What on earth was happening? This dinner felt less like a meal and more like her last supper.
As the conversation continued, the waiters entered with an array of dishes, their arrival accompanied by the uncorking of five bottles of nineteen eighty-two vintage wine.
Grateful for the interruption, Olivia immediately helped herself to the food. She was hungry, and it would be a shame to let such a feast go to waste.
After they had eaten, the director stood to make a toast. ""President Ambrose, on behalf of the entire hospital staff, I want to personally thank you for your generous investment in Alliance Hospital. We are deeply grateful."" He stated.
""If you truly wish to show your gratitude, you should toast Dr McQueen. She played a significant role in my uncle's successful operation,"" Alexander said, his smile widening as he finished his glass.
""Thank you, President Ambrose, for your kind words,"" Olivia replied, a forced smile gracing her lips, masking the turmoil she felt inside.
""Come on, Dr McQueen, let's have a toast to you,"" the others chimed in, raising their glasses in unison.
Olivia noted the happy expressions on their faces, except for Chen Wang, who remained seated with a sullen look, refusing to join in the toast. But Olivia didn't take his reaction to heart. Since joining Alliance Hospital, Dr Chen had never been friendly towards her, and she had grown accustomed to his aloofness.
As the feast drew to a close, the guests appeared content and satisfied. Everyone seemed to be quite happy, except Olivia, who felt anything but at ease.
""Do you guys have any other appointments?"" Just as Olivia thought she could finally escape, Alexander's voice broke through her thoughts.