Second Year After
Since the lottery win, globe-trotting has become our norm, with several annual trips.In the midst of winter, Vienna beckoned. This journey marked my introduction to Cain. Not long after, Michael Eclair entered the picture.
While I was scouring the web for etiquette and fashion guidance, a call came through. But instead of Cain, a senior gentleman, appearing to be in his sixties, graced the screen.
"Come to my Beijing office. Expect an email with your ticket, accommodation details, and instructions." Michael Eclair's tone radiated calm authority, leaving no room for objections. Once he had delivered his message, the call ended, leaving me in contemplation.
"..."
A few minutes elapsed before Cain appeared, offering formal bows and fervent apologies. He confessed to being coerced and blackmailed into revealing my details. Thankfully, the circle of knowledge remained small, confined to him, his father, and Michael Eclair.
"..."
"..."
"... Free service for two years," my response carried a muted hiss, subdued anger but not entirely unexpected. I was, after all, ready to seize the opportunity.
"Anything you want!" His plea carried sincerity as he apologized and swiftly disconnected before I could press for more. Leaving my room, I sought my parents to deliberate on the situation. Predictably, my mother was puzzled, as she rarely ventured into the business realm like my father and I. Conversely, my father's tranquil demeanor belied his concern and, undoubtedly, a touch of pride.
"Let me join you. What if something happens? Or worse, you're kidnapped." Her worry was evident, yet her eyes sparkled with anticipation.
She's itching to come along.
"Fine! Just call every hour and keep your GPS on." muttered my father with a sigh.
"Медовый (Honey)," Mom's objection echoed through the house.
My father's stern gaze met my mothers, "Sooner or later, he must spread his wings."
She held her peace, her silence communicating volumes. With gratitude in my eyes, I offered my father an approving nod before embracing my mother to reassure her. "
Don't fret, Mom. I'll call, and I promise a bounty of gifts on my return."
Her smile, albeit faint, radiated warmth, even if a shadow of doubt lingered.
.
.
Meeting Michael Eclair face-to-face was nerve-wracking. Imagine walking into a job interview with the CEO, bypassing the manager entirely. It's no surprise my nerves were on edge – who wouldn't be?
Seated across from me was a towering figure, head of the Eclair Family, the driving force behind the Eclair Investments and Real Estate Empire. A pinnacle of wealth and influence globally, he commanded respect and fear in equal measure.
"Your triumphant investments in recent years are remarkable. It's hard to fathom that you're just... so young." His intense gaze remained fixed on me, analyzing my every move, as if afraid to miss a flicker.
'Can't say I blame him!'