Chapter 27
“I already called a ride-share.”
“Just cancel it.” Gary got out, taking my suitcase without asking, placing it in the trunk. If it weren’t for the luxury car, passersby might have thought I was being robbed. He opened the car door for me. “Come on, don’t be shy. It’s on the way.”
His enthusiasm embarrassed me; a grown man opening my car door. After thanking him, I got in. Evan was sitting on the other side.
He wasn’t formally dressed today—a light blue shirt, black pants, black shoes, no tie, but dazzling cufflinks; bathed in the bluish light filtering through the window, he exuded a clean, sharp elegance, reminding me of an ice-blue flower at the highest altitude… a regal aura that created distance.
“Good morning,” I greeted him, smoothing down my coat. The distance was considerable, but I felt safer the further away I was.
He nodded slightly, his expression impassive, like a polite monarch acknowledging a loyal subject. I pursed my lips. Okay. Gentle and humble was his mask; cold and aloof was his true nature. But born with a silver spoon, a little arrogance was expected; his character was still good. The savior filter made his flaws infinitely forgivable.
The car started; I canceled the ride-share, paying a small cancellation fee and checking the driver’s number. It wasn’t the same number…
The original number called again; this time, I hung up without hesitation.
“Going on a trip?” his low, rich voice asked.
I instinctively turned. “Yes.”
“Where to?”
“Iceland.” He must be bored to ask such details.
I thought the conversation was over, but he continued, “So far.”
“…Ah, yes, very far.” I nodded in agreement, thinking: You’re a wealthy kid who’s studied abroad since childhood; this unsophisticated remark is so out of place!
“Was this trip planned long ago, or is it spontaneous?” His tone was casual, even friendly.
I readily replied, “It’s been planned for a while…” I stopped abruptly, remembering my recent job application… A woman with pre-planned travel plans applying for a job… My face flushed with embarrassment; I pleaded with him not to remember.
But the friendly air around him vanished, suggesting he “did” remember! No! He’d set a trap!
Adding fuel to the fire, Zach said, “So, Ms. Frost, you’ve given up on the job?”
…!! I wanted to kneel. Embarrassed and aggrieved, I whispered, “If the job interview had been successful, I would’ve canceled the trip. Mr. Jones rejected me.” That had been my plan; a relaxing trip was necessary, but if I’d landed the chief of staff position, I’d have adjusted my plans.
“What if I changed my mind?” His tone was calm, his expression serious.
I felt a surge of panic. “You mean… I got the job?” Now? As I was about to leave for my trip? He didn’t answer but smirked playfully. “Aren’t you going on a trip?” I haven’t even left yet!! “The trip can be canceled; I can start immediately.” I sat straighter; I couldn’t miss this chance.
“Immediately?”
“Immediately!” I was certain.
“I just meant Iceland is far.” His smile widened; he exchanged a glance with Zach.
“Ms. Frost, it’s wonderful you can start today. Once we’re on the plane, I can explain the details of your first business trip.”
I was a little dazed. I’d hitched a ride and landed a job. Although surreal, I quickly adjusted. “Okay, we still have time before the airport. Perhaps you could send me the itinerary?”
Zach chuckled. “No need to rush.” I nodded.
My phone, on silent, rang repeatedly. It was Sherry. I answered. “Sherry.”
“Julian found out about your flight; he’s heading to the airport.” She yelled anxiously.
“He’s gone crazy, Olivia. Turn back; find somewhere to hide.”
“Mm, let me think.” I rubbed my temples.
Hanging up, I looked out the window, my mood plummeting, feeling the chill of a late autumn rain—sadness and powerlessness.
The car was silent; everyone had heard my conversation with Sherry. Evan remained silent. Gary, feeling sympathy, said, “Don’t worry; the boss has a private jet; we can drive directly onto the tarmac; he won’t find you.”
My face brightened. I hadn’t thought of that; I was now traveling with the heir!
Evan glanced at me. “Olivia Frost, you’re quite resourceful.”
Julian didn’t find me at the airport; he couldn’t find my flight information. Thinking I hadn’t boarded, he left, unaware I was already on Evan’s private jet. The cabin was spacious and comfortable, the temperature perfect, with a pleasant fragrance. During takeoff, the momentary weightlessness felt like cold hands gripping my heart. I approached the window, gazing at the terminal below, imagining Julian’s rage… I smiled, then fell into a pensive silence…
After the plane leveled off, the flight attendant served breakfast. My appetite was poor; I ate a little, then stared at the clouds.
“Olivia Frost, if you continue this anxious behavior, I don’t think you need to bother with the onboarding process.”
