Chapter 1
: Riverton The blistering summer sun beat down on Riverton like a relentless inferno, threatening to scorch even the hardiest of souls. Giselle Brown, determined to escape the suffocating confines of her office, seized the opportunity to take half a day off and make her way to Waterside District's city hall. Her mission? To obtain her marriage certificate. Giselle was acutely aware of her grandmother's lingering disappointment over the events of three years ago. She blamed herself for not adequately shielding Giselle from the fallout, which had left her reputation tarnished and unable to return home. With Granny Ursula advancing in years, the worry of being unable to care for Giselle weighed heavily on her mind. Thus, she sought the assistance of Granny Athena from Riverton, hoping that she could introduce Giselle to a suitable husband. As fate would have it, Granny Athena's grandson happened to be an eligible bachelor. In the eyes of the older generation, a woman's ultimate purpose in life was to secure a marriage, regardless of the husband's identity. It was as if marrying fulfilled some sacred mission. However, after witnessing countless failed marriages and enduring the heartache of her own past, Giselle had grown disillusioned with the concept. She held no lofty expectations for matrimony. If she were to meet the right person, she would consider tying the knot. But if not, she found solace in the idea of remaining single for the rest of her days. Yet, to appease her grandmother's concerns and offer her peace of mind, Giselle reluctantly agreed to marry Granny Athena's grandson. Determined to fulfill this duty, she arrived at her destination, only to be greeted by the sight of a tall man stationed at the entrance of the city hall. Clad in a simple white shirt and black slacks, he exuded an undeniable magnetism that drew the attention of every woman present. Oblivious to the gazes fixed upon him, he remained engrossed in a phone conversation. Consulting her phone, Giselle retrieved the photo her grandmother had sent her. To her astonishment, the man before her was the exact match from the picture, but somehow even more captivating in person. Summoning her courage, she approached him. As he concluded his call, he turned his attention towards her and inquired, "Giselle?" Not only was he strikingly handsome, but his voice possessed a deep, seductive quality that sent shivers down Giselle's spine. She nodded in affirmation and asked, "Are you Terry Griffin?" Terry acknowledged her with a nod and began striding purposefully towards the city hall. His long strides forced Giselle to quicken her pace, jogging alongside him to keep up."Um, are you absolutely certain about going through with this marriage?" Terry paused, glancing at his watch. "Do you have any reservations?" Giselle pondered whether she should inquire if he truly knew her, if he was aware of her past. But perhaps he, like her, was being coerced into marriage by societal pressures rather than genuine affection. In that case, knowing each other on a deeper level might not be necessary. She herself only knew him as Granny Athena's grandson, unaware even of his profession. Shaking her head, Giselle replied, "Let's proceed then." The process was swift, almost too swift. When she laid eyes on the freshly issued marriage certificate, disbelief washed over her. It was at that moment that Terry handed her a bank card. "I've been swamped with work lately and won't have much time to take care of you. Take this card, the password is six 6s, and use the funds as you see fit." Giselle stood there, stunned, as Terry departed in a sleek business car before she could collect herself. The bank card in her grasp felt as though it were searing her skin. Working at the Hartley Group branch and co-owning a comic book studio with a friend, Giselle had a steady income that allowed her to lead a comfortable life without relying on men for financial support. Her ideal vision of a loveless marriage involved obtaining a certificate to appease the older generation at home, with minimal interference in each other's lives, maintaining the status quo. However, if Terry Griffin were willing to live a peaceful life alongside her, she would wholeheartedly embrace this union. With that thought in mind, Giselle snapped a photo of the marriage certificate and sent it to her grandmother. "Grandma, we've obtained our marriage certificate." Her grandmother's response arrived promptly. "Good. You should start having children with him as soon as possible." "Okay," Giselle replied tersely, sliding her phone back into her pocket, a sense of heaviness settling in her heart. 10:46 AM. That's how it went in Giselle's hometown. If a woman remained single, she would be relentlessly pushed into marriage. And once married, the pressure to bear children would intensify. It was as if women were not allowed to have their own lives. Giselle's marriage seemed to have no impact on her own existence.After their marriage, that man never reached out to Giselle again. Her life remained unchanged, with her tirelessly working day and night. A year swiftly passed, and Riverton's hottest season arrived once more. During that year, Giselle's exceptional job performance led to her transfer to the secretary's office at the Hartley Group headquarters. Today marked the return of the president of the Hartley Group after a year abroad, causing tension to ripple through the company. Giselle, in particular, felt on edge, as she might be reassigned to work directly under the president. As everyone anxiously anticipated the president's arrival, the exclusive elevator door designated for his use opened, revealing two men and a woman. The man leading the trio wore silver-framed glasses and stood at an impressive height of six feet, possessing both a flawless physique and face. Giselle couldn't shake the feeling that she had seen him before and found herself unable to tear her gaze away... "Giselle, that's our president, President Hartley," Leah whispered into her ear, breaking her trance. "There was a girl in our office who once had romantic thoughts about President Hartley, and she got fired." In her less than a year at the headquarters, Giselle had yet to lay eyes on the president. She knew he was only 28 years old, but she hadn't expected him to be so striking and well-built. Just as she started to feel flustered and considered explaining herself, a scoff came from behind her. "Do you honestly think you're worthy of him?" Chloe Petersen, who had asked Giselle out and made her life difficult after being rejected, sneered. Giselle had never indulged in unrealistic fantasies and paid no mind to petty individuals like Chloe. But Chloe seemed convinced she had guessed Giselle's thoughts and continued in a sarcastic tone, "Women these days always aim too high. Just because they're mildly attractive, they think they can marry a wealthy man." Naomi, the president's assistant, overheard their exchange and approached them with a cold gaze. "Giselle, Leah, Chloe, come with me to the president's office." Naomi was a seasoned employee of the company.Giselle, Leah, and Chloe were among the select few chosen from a pool of over twenty candidates vying for a position in the president's office. The decision of who would replace Naomi rested solely on President Hartley's shoulders. As they entered his office, the grandeur of the space enveloped them. Floor-to-ceiling windows offered a breathtaking view of Riverton, adding to the air of sophistication that permeated the room. President Hartley, an imposing figure dressed in a crisp white shirt and black trousers, stood tall by the window. His mere presence commanded attention, rendering everyone speechless. With utmost respect, Naomi spoke up, "President Hartley, everyone is present." He turned his gaze towards them, his aura so powerful that it seemed to stifle any sound. Each person in the room held their breath, afraid to disturb the weight of his presence. Summoning her courage, Chloe stepped forward. "President Hartley, my name is Chloe. I have been working in the CEO's office for five years. My uncle, Matt Petersen, asked me to convey his greetings to you..." President Hartley glanced at Chloe, his expression unchanged. However, those familiar with him could discern his disdain for such blatant flattery. Leah, trying to appear composed, followed suit. "President Hartley, my name is Leah. I have been a part of the CEO's office for three years." Despite her best efforts, her voice quivered, betraying her nervousness. Finally, President Hartley's gaze fell upon Giselle, who met his eyes head-on. This time, their proximity allowed Giselle to study his face, which resembled a masterpiece sculpted by a skilled artist. There was a sense of familiarity, but she couldn't quite place it. Little did Giselle know that Marcus was, in fact, Terry - the husband she had met only once when they picked up their marriage certificate. Years ago, when Terry was born, the Hartley Group faced internal turmoil. To safeguard their sole heir, his family had arranged for him to have two identities. Publicly, he was known as Terry, a name that echoed through the business world. Privately, within the confines of his personal life, he went by Marcus - a secret only his family knew.
Chapter 2
Marcus furrowed his brow as he noticed the girl's unwavering gaze. Being the president of the Hartley Group had its perks, but it also meant attracting unwanted attention from women. It was an annoyance he had grown accustomed to. Naomi nudged Giselle, bringing her back from her daydream. "What's got you lost in thought?" she asked. Giselle quickly snapped out of it, adjusting her demeanor. "President Hartley, it's a pleasure to meet you. I'm Giselle, and I've been working at the Hartley Group headquarters for less than a year." Her self-introduction carried a sense of confidence, setting her apart from the others. "Giselle?" Marcus repeated the name under his breath, a flicker of recognition crossing his face. He glanced at Giselle again, relieved that she wasn't staring at him this time. "Let her stay," he said, feeling more at ease. Naomi agreed and led the trio out of the office. "Giselle, move your belongings to the special assistant's office," she instructed. "Of course," Giselle replied, returning to her desk to pack her things. Working alongside the president meant their salaries would double, at the very least. All three of them had fought hard to secure this promotion, but ultimately, it was Giselle who emerged victorious, despite her lack of experience. This left the others feeling dissatisfied. However, Leah soon realized the error in their thinking. Giselle's abilities were well-known, and they couldn't discount her skills just because she was young and inexperienced. Leah smiled and embraced Giselle. "Congratulations," she said warmly. Giselle returned the sentiment with gratitude, "Thank you." But Chloe wasn't so gracious.He scoffed, his tone dripping with sarcasm. "Leah, you really need to broaden your horizons. It takes more than just being good at your job to get ahead. You also have to know how to manipulate people." He purposefully didn't mention any names, hoping to provoke a reaction from someone who would then be seen as guilty. He was convinced that Giselle wouldn't be able to do anything about his slander. Giselle glanced at him, her eyes icy cold. "Chloe, do you honestly believe you're qualified to defame President Hartley?" It suddenly dawned on Chloe the consequences of her actions, and her face turned pale. Leah chimed in as well. "Chloe, it's pretty shady to see a woman who's clearly more talented than you and then spread malicious rumors about her." "Leah, I'll go talk to her right now." Giselle gave Leah a grateful look before grabbing her things and leaving. Giselle arrived at the special assistant's office, where Naomi watched her carefully. "President Hartley chose you today, but whether you can stay by his side for long will depend on your skills." She continued, her voice serious. "Remember, President Hartley can't stand having subordinates with hidden agendas. Don't ruin your own future." Marcus was a mystery to the public, as he never made appearances in the media. However, year after year, he remained at the top of Riverton's most eligible bachelor list. Giselle had never entertained any inappropriate thoughts about Marcus, but explaining that wouldn't necessarily convince anyone. She believed that excelling at her work would be the most convincing response. She replied, "Thank you for the reminder. I'll be careful." Naomi observed Giselle's sincerity and softened her gaze. "I'll entrust the work to you now."The president's secretariat at the Hartley Group was a bustling hive of activity, teeming with staff members fulfilling their respective roles. However, amidst the crowd, only two individuals held the coveted positions of special assistants to the president - Naomi and Keith, each entrusted with distinct responsibilities. Naomi, in particular, played the role of the president's private assistant, attending to every minute detail of his life. From his personal preferences to his idiosyncrasies, she had committed them all to memory. It was this knowledge that made her an invaluable asset to the president's secretary, Giselle. The morning was spent in a seamless transition of work between Naomi and Giselle, preparing the latter for her solo encounter with the president in the afternoon. As the clock struck noon, Giselle took it upon herself to make a refreshing cup of iced Americano for the president. With the beverage in hand, she approached the door to his office and softly knocked. A deep, resonant voice emanated from within, beckoning her to enter. Stepping into the room, Giselle found Marcus seated at his desk, engrossed in the contents of a document. Carefully, she placed the coffee on the desk, a mere thirty centimeters to his left, and spoke up, "President Hartley, the meeting with Digital Sports Technology is scheduled for 2:10, just ten minutes from now." Without lifting his head, Marcus deftly reached for the coffee and took a sip, his response a simple, satisfied hum. Ten minutes later, Giselle and Keith joined Marcus as they made their way to the meeting. During the proceedings, Keith assumed the responsibility of recording the discussions, while Giselle diligently prepared the necessary materials for the president. Marcus, ever the silent observer, rarely uttered a word, preferring instead to lend an attentive ear to his subordinates and the representatives from Digital Sports Technology. Yet, when he did speak, his words carried weight, hitting their mark with precision. With a mere gesture or a flicker in his gaze, Giselle instinctively understood his desires, promptly delivering the required materials. The synchronicity between the two was so seamless that even Keith found himself astounded. If he hadn't known any better, he would have assumed Giselle had been working alongside President Hartley for years on end. More than three hours later, the meeting concluded on a successful note, and Giselle and Keith trailed behind Marcus as they made their way back to his office.
Chapter 3
: A Twist of Love Giselle's world shattered as she discovered that her boss, President Hartley, was already married. The mere mention of his wife brought a gentle smile to his face, revealing a deep and undeniable love. Giselle couldn't help but feel a surge of admiration for her boss, who was not only rich, fit, and good-looking but also deeply devoted to his wife. As an ordinary girl, Giselle pondered her response before speaking up, "President Hartley, I believe most girls appreciate jewelry, but what truly matters is the sentiment behind the gift. It could be as simple as a bouquet of flowers, a romantic dinner, or even just watching a movie together." Being inexperienced in the realm of dating, Marcus knew little about wooing a girl. All he understood was how to treat her well after marriage. He instructed Giselle, "Very well, you go ahead and make the preparations." Without wasting a moment, Giselle swiftly contacted the flower shop that the Hartley Group frequently collaborated with. She personally handpicked red roses, symbolizing love, to be delivered. As for selecting suitable restaurants and movie theaters for their date, Giselle faced no difficulty, despite her lack of dating experience. Through sheer determination and unwavering effort, Giselle had managed to rise through the ranks and work alongside the president. Her journey had been filled with countless challenges, known only to her. Memorizing the specialties of Riverton's finest restaurants, Giselle knew exactly which ones were ideal for dates and which were perfect for entertaining clients. She even remembered the preferences of all their past clients, leaving no room for error. With the roses and the location of their date safely delivered to the president's office, Giselle's work for the day came to an end. Although everything seemed effortless and seamless, only she knew the nerves that had gripped her throughout the day. Returning home, Giselle finally allowed herself to relax. She sank into the couch, letting exhaustion wash over her as she drifted off to sleep. Meanwhile, Marcus arrived outside Giselle's neighborhood, intending to give her a call. It was then that he realized he hadn't saved his wife's number in his contact list.Regret coursed through Marcus, his guilt weighing heavily on his heart. How could he have neglected his wife for an entire year? Not even saving her phone number was a testament to his negligence. Determined to make amends, he resolved to treat her better in the future. Rummaging through his grandmother's chat history, Marcus stumbled upon a phone number. With a flicker of hope, he dialed it, his anticipation mingling with a hint of anxiety. A soft, drowsy voice greeted him, as if the person on the other end had just woken up. "Hello, who is this?" His wife didn't recognize his number? A bittersweet smile tugged at Marcus's lips. "It's Terry," he replied, his voice laced with tenderness. "Mr. Terry, hello. How can I assist you?" Her politeness was accompanied by a sense of unfamiliarity, as if she were unaware of his existence. Just as Marcus prepared to speak, a man's voice interrupted from the background, "Honey, wake up and come eat..." Suddenly, realization dawned on Marcus, and his eyes, hidden behind his glasses, grew heavy with sadness. He ended the call, his heart sinking. Gazing at the gift box and the vibrant red roses beside him, a pang of longing pierced Marcus's soul. He averted his gaze, lighting a cigarette and taking a few puffs before instructing the driver, "Start the car. We're heading to Southern Summer Garden." Meanwhile, Giselle, half-asleep and consumed by her demanding work schedule, had pushed their marriage to the recesses of her mind. The name "Terry" held no place in her memory. Uninterested in the phone call, Giselle assumed it was a non-client and set the phone aside. She made her way into the kitchen, finding herself sandwiched between Elara Young and Colton Ruck. Softly, she spoke, "Why didn't you wake me up when you two got back?" Elara playfully tapped Giselle's nose. "You looked exhausted, like a tired puppy. I didn't want to disturb your sleep." Colton, busy serving the food, chimed in. "Wash your hands quickly. It's time for dinner." The three of them had grown up together, attended college in Riverton, and had once planned to embark on a business venture after graduation.But fate had other plans. Giselle's accident during their sophomore year summer threatened to derail her studies and dreams. It was a devastating blow, but instead of giving up, they made a collective decision to stay in Riverton and forge ahead together. After graduation, the trio took a leap of faith and opened their own comic studio. They rented a modest three-bedroom apartment, where they both worked and lived. Their bond grew stronger, their relationship closer than ever before. As they sat around the table, Giselle couldn't help but notice the array of dishes. "Is this feast because our studio hit it big?" she asked, a hint of curiosity in her voice. Colton, always the thoughtful one, poured each of them a glass of rich red wine. "We heard about your promotion to the president's assistant," he said, a proud smile on his face. "This celebration feast is our way of congratulating you." Elara, ever the gossip queen, squeezed in next to Giselle. "I've heard rumors about the president of the Hartley Group," she whispered excitedly. "He's never seen in public, and women are practically lining up to marry him. Is he as handsome as they say?" Colton, with his cynical nature, scoffed. "Just because he's rich doesn't mean he's good-looking. Maybe he hides his face because he's ugly?" he mused, a touch of bitterness in his tone. Giselle laughed, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Oh, he's definitely handsome," she teased. "But whether he's enough to make people swoon, well, you'll have to ask his wife." Elara's eyes widened in surprise. "Wait, he's married?" she exclaimed. Giselle nodded, her expression thoughtful. "Yes, he is. And from what I've heard, he adores his wife. But there's something about him that feels familiar, like I've seen him before." Elara playfully nudged Giselle. "You always feel familiar around handsome guys," she teased. "You have the potential to break hearts, my friend." Giselle chuckled, a hint of mischief in her eyes. "There's nothing wrong with being a heartbreaker. No need to be tied down," she replied. Colton rolled his eyes, a playful scowl on his face. "Miss, you're already married!" he reminded her. Elara quickly jumped to Giselle's defense. "Married people can still have crushes, you know. Should Giselle spend her life pining for a man who disappeared after getting married?" Giselle shrugged, a sense of calmness washing over her. "With you two by my side, I don't need anyone else," she said, her voice filled with conviction. In the early days of their marriage, Giselle had imagined a future with that mysterious man. But life had taken them on a different path, one where their friendship and shared dreams took precedence. And in that moment, as laughter filled the room, Giselle knew she had made the right choice.As time passed and he vanished without a trace, even his granny, whom she had met a few times prior to the registration, stopped reaching out. All remaining thoughts dissipated, leaving her feeling empty. However, her grandmother often mentioned her husband and made plans to visit the couple in Riverton for Christmas. Elara and Colton chimed in, their voices filled with confidence, "Yeah, worthless men can't hold a candle to us." Amidst their laughter, they finished their meal. After tidying up the table, they sat down together to work on their comics. Life was a tapestry of beauty and fulfillment. The following day, Giselle arrived early at her company. The new boss was always busy, and working under him meant a higher salary but also demanded more time and effort. Giselle stepped out of the taxi and spotted a sleek black Keithtley slowly pulling up in front of the company's entrance. She hurried over to open the door for her boss, her voice filled with respect, "Good morning, President Hartley!" Marcus nodded, looking a bit worn out. Giselle didn't dwell on it and followed him into the CEO's private elevator, dutifully briefing him on today's schedule. In the morning, they had a golf appointment with the CEO of Digital Sports Technology. Marcus's complexion returned to normal, and he exuded warmth and charm as he interacted with the CEO of Digital Sports Technology. However, Keith and Giselle, waiting nearby, still felt a hint of tension. Keith had been by Marcus's side for many years and rarely witnessed his emotions. Today seemed different. "Giselle, what do you think is going on with our CEO?" Giselle shook her head. "If you don't know, how would I?" Keith pondered for a while. Their work hadn't presented any problems recently, so the CEO's concerns must be personal. Suddenly, an idea struck him. "Could it be... that President Hartley didn't get what he wanted from his wife last night?"
Chapter 4
Giselle was at a loss for words. Was this really a conversation they should be having? But as she observed her boss's distressed expression, she considered that it might indeed be necessary. Glancing over at Marcus, who effortlessly swung his golf club and scored a hole-in-one, Giselle couldn't help but admire his grace. Meanwhile, the president of Digital Sports struggled, swinging multiple times without success. After a few rounds, the president of Digital Sports gestured for someone to bring water. Sensing the need, Giselle quickly handed Marcus a bottle of water and a towel. The president of Digital Sports, however, had his eyes fixed on Giselle, shamelessly scanning her body. Giselle, dressed in a white shirt and knee-length skirt, her hair neatly tied up, exuded professionalism. Her makeup was subtle yet elegant, accentuating her natural beauty. Yet, despite her modest appearance, the president of Digital Sports continued to ogle her chest, his gaze filled with lewdness. "President Hartley, your new assistant is not only young and beautiful but also has an incredible figure," he remarked. Marcus responded nonchalantly, "Mr. Ducler, you're too kind." With a chuckle, the president of Digital Sports turned his attention to Giselle. "Miss, do you know how to play golf?" As the president's assistant, Giselle possessed some knowledge of the sport, but she wasn't an expert, and it wouldn't be appropriate for her to participate in this situation. "Mr. Ducler, I'm afraid I don't," she replied, despising the way he looked at her. However, to avoid causing discomfort, she refrained from reacting. Taking the empty water bottle from Marcus, she prepared to step aside. But Mr. Ducler reached out and brazenly touched her buttocks, his arm encircling her waist. "Miss, if you don't know, allow me to teach you," he suggested. Instinctively, Giselle stomped forcefully on Mr. Ducler's foot, causing him to release her with a pained expression and glare at her in anger. Seizing the opportunity, Giselle swiftly moved away, anxiously seeking Marcus's support...In the midst of a crucial business negotiation, Giselle found herself in hot water, her actions potentially leading to her dismissal. Little did she know, Marcus would unexpectedly step in with a bold declaration, "Mr. Ducler, she belongs to me." As Marcus locked eyes with Mr. Ducler, his face remained impassive, yet a flicker of displeasure danced within his gaze. The room fell silent, anticipation hanging thick in the air. It was as if a light bulb had gone off in Mr. Ducler's mind, prompting him to swiftly offer an apology, "President Hartley, I beg your pardon. I apologize." However, Mr. Ducler's attention remained fixed on Giselle, his words dripping with a newfound realization, "I must admit, President Hartley, I had thought you were disinterested in women, just as the rumors suggested. Since you still find her captivating, I shall exercise patience for a while longer." Marcus, toying with his golf club, sported a faint smile that concealed his true emotions. "Mr. Ducler, you owe her an immediate apology," he demanded. A momentary pause hung in the air before Mr. Ducler erupted into laughter. "President Hartley, we are partners, and she is merely your plaything..." The word "plaything" pierced Giselle's heart like a venomous needle, stirring up unpleasant memories. She had earned her position through her own merits and worked diligently to earn her keep. Why, then, was she subjected to such humiliation, simply because she was a woman blessed with beauty? This time, Giselle refused to wait for Marcus to intervene. She stood tall, her voice resolute as she defended herself, "Mr. Ducler, do you not have any women in your life? Were you not birthed by a woman after ten months of pregnancy? Or do you believe that demeaning a woman is the only way to assert your strength?" Her words hung in the air, neither humble nor arrogant, but spoken with eloquence and conviction. Keith, too, stepped forward, adding his support, "Mr. Ducler, the Hartley Group has no shortage of partners like you. However, our company values and respects each and every employee." The weight of Giselle and Keith's united front finally struck Mr. Ducler, his face contorting with realization as he grasped the severity of the situation."President Hartley, please accept my sincere apologies for my behavior towards your employee," Mr. Ducler stammered, his voice laced with regret. "Miss Giselle, I am truly sorry as well." As Marcus swung the golf club with force, the white ball soared through the air, colliding with a nearby tree trunk before veering dangerously close to Mr. Ducler's head. Mr. Ducler's legs trembled, threatening to give way beneath him. "President Hartley, it was entirely my fault. I beg for your forgiveness..." Marcus remained silent, his icy gaze sweeping over Mr. Ducler's right hand before turning away. *** Giselle hastily grabbed her laptop bag and hurried to catch up with Marcus. Towering at 6'2", his imposing figure dwarfed her 5'6" frame. Though she couldn't see his expression, she could hear the commanding timbre of his deep voice. "The ones at fault are the ones who harass you, not you," Marcus spoke with conviction, his voice resonating with power. "Stand up against workplace bullying, no matter the circumstances. You don't have to suffer in silence. The entire Hartley Group stands behind you." Giselle had never heard him speak so passionately before. His words offered her a newfound sense of security, assuring her that the harasser was the one in the wrong. Grateful, she replied, "Thank you, President Hartley. I now know what I must do." Marcus glanced back and noticed her reddened eyes. While she hadn't shown fear when facing the bully earlier, she now felt the weight of injustice. His tone softened involuntarily. "You work by my side, representing me. There is no need to be afraid of anyone." "Yes," Giselle nodded, her voice tinged with gratitude rather than fear. If only there had been someone like him to defend her when she was bullied before, she wouldn't have ended up homeless and with a tarnished reputation. Marcus added, "You handled the situation admirably just now." A warmth blossomed in Giselle's heart. "Thank you!" Just then, Keith caught up with them. "President Hartley, I have informed the relevant departments to terminate the collaboration with Digital Sports." The Hartley Group had dedicated years to developing chips, achieving remarkable success in the process.However, as the patents were still pending approval, the company found itself in need of collaborating with more established chip manufacturers like Digital Sports for certain products. The sudden termination of this collaboration would undoubtedly result in some losses for the group. Giselle, however, understood that Marcus made this decision not only to protect her, his employee, but also to uphold the company's dignity. Her respect for him grew even stronger in light of this. In an era that often felt cold and indifferent, Giselle considered herself fortunate to work for a company with a boss who genuinely looked out for his subordinates. With the partnership with Digital Sports disrupted, the Hartley Group now had the task of finding a new chip supplier. In order to negotiate with potential suppliers, Giselle and the others accompanied Marcus on a business trip to the Capital. After two weeks of intense negotiations, they finally managed to secure a cooperation agreement with a new supplier. Their hard work had paid off, and they could now return to Riverton the following morning. After dinner, Giselle realized she still had some time before turning in for the night. She decided to seize the opportunity and buy some local specialties for Colton and Elara, her colleagues and friends. When Keith caught wind of her plan to go shopping alone, he offered, "Giselle, do you need me to accompany you? It might be a bit dangerous for a beautiful girl to wander around an unfamiliar city at night." He then turned to his boss and suggested, "President Hartley, perhaps you should also pick up some gifts for your wife?" Marcus furrowed his brow, thinking back to the mysterious phone call he had received that night. However, upon careful consideration, he realized that merely hearing a man's voice on the phone didn't necessarily prove anything. It could very well be a misunderstanding. Nodding, he replied, "The choice is yours, you guys decide." Giselle, perhaps impulsively, chimed in, "President Hartley, personally selecting a gift for your wife would be a more sincere gesture." However, as they made their way to the mall, Giselle soon regretted her suggestion. The thought of shopping alone with her boss made her feel incredibly uncomfortable. Originally, all three of them had planned to go together, but due to a packed parking lot, Keith had to circle around in search of a spot, leaving Giselle and Marcus to navigate the mall on their own.
Chapter 5
Giselle observed her CEO as he strolled ahead, his demeanor suggesting a man of refined taste. She knew she couldn't settle for anything cheap, but she also had to consider her own budget. Determined to satisfy her boss's preferences, she guided him towards a luxury store. As they walked, Giselle quickened her pace to catch up with Marcus. "President Hartley, shall we explore some stores?" she asked, hoping to steer their aimless wandering towards a purpose. Marcus nodded and veered towards the nearest store, only to be halted by the staff at the entrance. "Sir, please join the queue over there," they instructed. Normally, establishments like these would eagerly cater to someone of Marcus's stature. He wouldn't have even bothered to glance around, unaware that he needed to line up just to purchase a simple purse. Thinking quickly, Giselle produced the company's exclusive VVIP card. The moment the staff caught sight of it, their demeanor transformed, ushering them into the coveted VIP room. The staff attending to VVIPs treated them with the utmost respect, as if they were royalty. They presented bags that regular customers would wait months to get their hands on. "Sir, madam, please take your time to choose," they graciously offered. Giselle couldn't help but feel a pang of embarrassment at the address. "He's my boss," she confessed, hoping to dispel any misinterpretations. Marcus, too, furrowed his brow. Though he hadn't seen his wife since returning to his country, he didn't want others to misunderstand their relationship. Rarely one to clarify, he spoke up, "She's helping me select a gift for my wife." "Apologies!" The staff, accustomed to dealing with various individuals daily, should have avoided such a basic error. Yet, as they sat together, their presence seemed to harmonize effortlessly, giving off an undeniable aura of compatibility. It was no wonder people assumed they were a couple. Unsure of what kind of handbags women favored, Marcus made a bold decision—he would buy them all.Her heart pounded with anticipation as Marcus followed her lead. They strolled along the bustling city streets, the weight of their purchases a constant reminder of their extravagant day. Giselle couldn't help but feel a pang of guilt as she thought about the exorbitant amount of money they had just spent. She glanced at Marcus, searching for any sign of his thoughts. His face remained impassive, but she could sense his displeasure lingering beneath the surface. It was moments like these when she questioned their dynamic. Were they really just boss and employee? Or was there something more? The thought gnawed at her as they arrived at their destination, a quaint boutique tucked away in a hidden corner. Giselle's eyes sparkled with excitement as she perused the delicate items on display. This was where she would find the one thing she truly desired. A saleswoman approached them with a warm smile, eager to assist. "Welcome, sir and madam. Is there anything specific you're looking for?" Giselle hesitated, her mind racing. She needed to find something that would capture her heart, something that would make all the sacrifices worthwhile. Finally, her eyes landed on it - a simple, yet elegant bracelet. It spoke to her soul, resonating with her deepest desires. Marcus observed her with a mix of curiosity and understanding. Without a word, he nodded, silently giving his approval. Giselle's heart swelled with gratitude. In that moment, she knew that he saw her as more than just an employee. As the saleswoman carefully wrapped the bracelet, Giselle couldn't help but reflect on the stark contrast between their lives. While she toiled day and night, barely scraping by, others effortlessly splurged on luxuries. It was a painful reminder of the gaping divide between the rich and the poor. With the bracelet securely packaged, Giselle took it in her hands, feeling a surge of determination. This would be a symbol of her resilience and her dreams. She would wear it proudly, a constant reminder of what she was fighting for. As they left the boutique, Giselle noticed Marcus looking at her with a newfound appreciation. "Do you still have things to buy?" he asked casually, his voice laced with curiosity. Giselle pointed towards the left, a determined glint in her eyes. "What I want to buy isn't in this mall. We need to walk a bit." "Lead the way," Marcus said, his tone filled with admiration. And as they ventured into the unknown, Giselle couldn't help but feel a renewed sense of hope.Although Marcus uttered those words, he took the lead as they walked. His confident strides outpaced Giselle, who struggled to keep up due to her smaller steps. In her hands, she carried two oversized bags, resembling a Christmas tree adorned with an abundance of gifts. It was both exhausting and amusing to witness. With every mistaken assumption that they were a couple, Giselle sensed a shift in Marcus's demeanor towards her. His once warm attitude now seemed colder, perhaps out of concern that she might develop unrealistic expectations or fear of being mistaken again. Giselle, however, appreciated his awareness as a married man. After what felt like an eternity, they finally reached Giselle's desired destination - a quaint boutique gift shop. Elara had always yearned for a teddy bear from this particular store, but the opportunity had never presented itself until now. Eagerly, Giselle rushed over to Marcus, addressing him as President Hartley, "I need to buy something here." Marcus nodded in understanding, "I'll wait for you outside." Mindful not to keep Marcus waiting for long, Giselle swiftly purchased Elara's gift before impulsively selecting a few accessories that caught her eye. The sight of various adorable trinkets captivated her, causing her to pause and deliberate over her choices. Unbeknownst to Giselle, Marcus was not known for his patience when it came to waiting for others. The only reason he agreed to wait for her was because she had assisted him in choosing gifts earlier. Standing by the roadside, he leisurely smoked a cigarette, observing Giselle through the smoky glass window as she meticulously selected her treasures. In this humble store, Marcus noticed a newfound radiance in Giselle's eyes. She appeared happier and more alive than she had been in the upscale stores they had visited prior. It was as if she had stumbled upon a hidden trove of precious gems, each item she chose holding immeasurable value to her.Do all girls have a soft spot for trinkets like these? Marcus pondered as he peered through the store window. Would his wife appreciate such things too? With a flicker of curiosity, he stepped inside, his hand reaching for a fluffy toy. As he held it, Marcus tried to conjure an image of his wife embracing it, but her face eluded him. He could only recall the delicate contours, a mere fragment of her essence. In an instant, Giselle's face merged with the phantom of his wife, a fleeting apparition in his mind. Such a ludicrous notion, Marcus chided himself. He was never one to fixate on appearances; countless faces blended into the sea of forgetfulness. Perhaps his subconscious had merely replaced his wife's visage with Giselle's due to her constant presence. Caught off guard, Giselle spotted Marcus. "President Hartley, are you searching for a gift for your wife?" "I'm not sure if she'll fancy it," Marcus confessed, his uncertainty palpable. Giselle chuckled, her voice a melodic lilt. "President Hartley, it's not the gift itself that matters to most women, but the sentiment behind it. With the effort you're putting in, anything you choose will surely be cherished." "Really?" Marcus mused, his wife hadn't even bothered saving his phone number. Would she appreciate the gestures he made now? His thoughts swirled in a tempest of contemplation. He had neglected his wife after their marriage, ignoring her needs for an entire year. Could he simply call her up and expect her to return home? It couldn't be that simple. "I will personally select the gifts," he declared, determination etching lines on his face. He approached the task with utmost seriousness, yet he was clueless about what young girls adored. Turning to Giselle, he implored, "Purchase everything that would bring joy to a girl's heart." Giselle knew Marcus possessed the wealth to buy an entire store without batting an eye. As his trusted assistant, however, she couldn't let him indulge recklessly. She gently urged him to exercise restraint, but Marcus remained resolute. The allure of showering his beloved with extravagant gifts proved irresistible. Reluctantly, Giselle procured an extra suitcase to accommodate the abundance of presents bestowed upon Marcus's lady. After all, these tokens of affection from the boss to his wife must remain pristine, free from any harm.
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