I collapsed into my chair, exhausted after a hard day of running the company. This duty was more of a weight than I had anticipated. Uncle Richard's never-ending plots and the expectations of my family made everything seem like a test from which I was unable to pass. It felt like only Ethan, with his realistic viewpoint, could relate to what I was going through.
I was about to end the day when my phone buzzed and the screen flashed an unfamiliar number. I stopped. I would often leave it on voicemail, but this time I felt obligated to answer.
"Hello?" I replied, attempting to maintain a steady tone.
"Is this Olivia Bennett?" said a cool, businesslike voice.
I said, "Yes, this is her."
Richard Evans is my name, Ms. Bennett. On behalf of Global Enterprises, I'm making this call. We would like to talk about a possible collaboration with you and your business.
