A Graduation Gift

The night unveiled a dirty story. Lionel and Ivy were planning something.

"I can't believe that you actually went to H City,"

Ivy said, feigning indifference. But as Lionel watched her reactions, a fleeting hint of jealousy and her shortness of breath betrayed her.

"What about it? Are you jealous? I only went there to get a scoop on Rufus, so that I can kick him out of the Tang Group more easily," responded Lionel.

The whole night, he appeared a little absent-minded. Every time he replayed the humiliating scenes of Rufus forcing him to kneel before Cassandra and kicking him out afterward, Lionel's anger against his brother kept on boiling.

At heart, he swore that he would have Rufus paid the price!

"So, did you find anything?"

Ivy's question was tongue-in-cheek. She didn't take Lionel's words seriously.

In response to her teasing, he simply sneered, turned over in bed, and snuggled closer to her.

Wearing a sensuous shade of red lipstick, Ivy whispered into his ears, "Lionel. I'll soon get the evidence."

It was very late. The darkness was gathering outside, just like Lionel's moods. It was time to hit the sack, hoping that tomorrow would be a better day. For the fretful day it had been, Lionel had feared he would turn and toss for the better part of the night. But by some stroke of luck, he went out like a light and slept quite peacefully.

Early in the morning as the first rays of sunlight lit the horizon, Lionel convinced himself that the bright day would banish his melancholy and he would lift up his head again.

The eminent landmark of G City, the Tang Group towers, with its classy blue finish sparkled in the morning light.

In good time, Cassandra arrived at the offices and headed straight to her own department. The few staff members who had made it earlier welcomed her with congratulatory messages for her feat in sealing the multi-million dollar deal for the company.

"Manager Qin, that was incredible! I can't believe you made the deal, quick and easy. Someone is going to get a promotion," enthused one colleague.

"Yeah, I've always believed Manager Qin's credentials. With charisma, brains and go-getting attitude, Manager Qin deserves the position," chipped in another.

"We feel privileged working under you. You have a lot for us to learn. Together we will make a difference to out company." added yet another.

…

among which were some unfamiliar faces. For a moment, she just stood there, not sure how to react. It began

gentlemen, why is everyone standing here?" a calm female

interruption was timely. When Cassandra turned around she was relieved to see

"Hi, Stella,"

the crowd dispersed

company, Cassandra walked over for a

they headed to Cassandra's

just trying to

case was a tricky one. No one in the company had expected

"I know,"

without emotion.

heard that the chairman would come. I'm so proud of you, Cassandra," Stella complimented

had just dismissed, she knew Cassandra would be on

a surprise. Why

might meet our Mr. Right at the bash. We need to dress up." Stella indulged herself in fantasies, chattering on, without

with that

casual style. Being an experimental designer, she rarely dressed formal attire. Minimalist T-shirts with jeans were her favorite, but to break monotony, occasional ladies chino pants with a flannel shirt or a cardigan sweater did her justice. Only lately had she started wearing

as you learn the ropes. I've got your back for the night. There's one particular store that I know

later," with a broad smile, she finished and ran quickly to the door. 'That's yet another

that she couldn't even wait for an answer?' as Cassandra reflected, she furrowed her eyebrows, shook her head and looked around the room.

sat on the top floor, Rufus, dressed in a handmade black suit, was standing in front of the french window. However, in spite of the stunning view outside, he cast a rather forlorn look. No one could tell what he was

I got

ponytail came in unannounced and reported in a husky voice.

confidant. Their friendship had lasted for many years, through many business deals and personal matters. Victor came in handy both at work and off. Eventually, Victor was recruited to the Tang Group, where now he

"Go ahead,"

his back facing Victor, Rufus said with his face

wants to get Miss Qin

like a robot that was devoid of emotion, filling in a very mechanical report.

"Okay, I got it."

got a plan. He ran his long

about tonight's

asked seeking for