"Alright!" I looked up at Nathan's enthused expression.

"Hold on a minute... I didn't actually think you'd agree with me this quickly?" I said, a little perplexed.

"Well, to be honest, the shareholders have been curious about you. And since you are the current heir of the company, it would be important for you to show up at the company and give your support."

"I can only imagine what they think of me..."

"They don't have an opinion of you."

"I'm sure there are rumours... Mistress. Seductress. Or perhaps he's my Daddy-Long-Legs?" Nathan laughed and we both stood in silence.

"There isn't anything to be ashamed of."

"I know,"

Nathan gave me a sympathetic look and then while walking past me he patted my shoulder and said, "I'm happy with your decision."

I then slowly turned; watching him leave the room. Thinking about if this is truly the best thing for me right now. But if I wanted to make progress, I had to do this. Even if there would be some tension...

*

Although I didn't have a background in finance, business, marketing, or public relations, Nathan insisted that participating in meetings and learning about the company would be good for my personal growth as an entrepreneur... or artiste as he put it.

When I told my boss I would only be able to work 3 days a week, he understood thankfully. Through the process of transitioning into a figurehead role at Ravenwolf and dodging Rae's questions about taking fewer shifts at the studio I was able to find a work balance.

When I woke up in the morning it felt like I was ready to take on the world.

Although I was wearing an uncomfortable dress that Nathan got me for appearances (I didn't have a 'prestigious enough wardrobe' for Ravenwolf)... I dare not ask the price.

When I thought I was 'presentable enough,' I looked at myself in the bathroom mirror, somewhat unrecognizable; I re-affirmed to myself that this was it. This was going to be hell in a hand-basket, but if I gave up without trying that old man would probably haunt me until I was grey.

I took my time walking down the steps. When I reached the final step, I held onto the railing, and braced myself as though I was stepping onto the ice.

I exhaled. Thinking that this would be the hardest part of my day. Then I thought of Kai, and told myself to think again because Nathan hadn't talked to him about my intended visit today.

I walked over to one of the cars I would be escorted in. One of the drivers was incredibly considerate. He helped me into the car, and make small talk with me on the way there. When we got to the company, my heart sank, and I peered out at the large building.

When I got out of the car the driver asked me if I wanted him to call for someone to escort me in, but I told him I would find my way. When I entered the building I couldn't help but feel intimidated and yet curious by the fast pace environment. A lot of people were passing by me, talking animatedly.

I let Nathan know I was here and braced myself for what was about to happen. When I got onto the almost full elevator, a young woman approached the elevator.

She was incredibly tall, and her hair shone angelically under the lighting. Her nails were long and delicate. Her body was a perfect 'S,' shape, and from top to bottom, she was lathered in designer clothes. She tilted her head to the side, looking at me. Up and down. Sizing me up. She scoffed a little, and before I could react, the elevator door closed.

Who the heck was that? Why that stuck up--

I shook my head, thinking about how I hoped to never meet her again. When I did, a strange shiver crossed over my body. I held onto my arms. A few people watched me, but I paid them no mind. When I got to the top floor (since I was the only person left), I stepped onto the floor as confidently as possible. When I found one of the administrative assistant's, who was already alerted I was going to arrive, I was brought to the board room.

I shook off as much nervousness as I possibly could. When I stepped inside, I suppose Nathan had just introduced me. Since I was right on time, according to his instruction. I saw several people stand at once, except for Kai, who although was keeping his composure, looked like he was about to self-destruct.

When I reached the front of the table I smiled and gestured for everyone to sit down. I sat down as well.

"This is Miss. Hazel Rose, Henry's benefactor. For a short period of time, she will be in our care. Henry has trusted her with the utmost confidence for the Ravenwolf name... she has come today after a small amount of time, and I am sure she would like to introduce herself..." I smiled and then nodded.

"Thank you, Nathan, for your kind words... and thank you to everyone for having me here. As Nathan said, I am Mr. Henry Ravenwolf's benefactor. I am here as an observer, an overseer, and supporter of the company. I am here to be respectful of Mr. Ravenwolf's wishes that I participate in board meetings, from here on out. For not doing this duty sooner, I give you my apologies. I am ignorant in ways of this specific field, but I am eager to learn. I am hoping that you will all give me the opportunity this year to excel and to create a dynamic energy here at Ravenwolf. Thank you for your time.,,"

I internally wanted to faint. They seemed pleased with my response and clapped their hands together. I smiled as candidly as possible and each of them took their time greeting me; asking me questions about what kind of role I wanted to fulfil, what I currently was qualified to do, what kind of contributions I would or want to make, and what kind of ideas I had just on the surface since they understood I had a background in visual arts.

After a long twenty minutes (although it seemed longer) they all excused themselves. I shook some of their hands and they all told me they looked forward to working with me. I extended the same thoughts.

When Nathan told me that he would give me a tour after escorting them out of the building, I told him I would wait. When I went into the staff room to get a drink of water Kai was already behind me. He reached out to grab a hold of my arm. While pulling me into the board meeting room again, I shoved his hand away from me.

"Let go!" he then pointed an accusatory finger at me.

"Just what is your game?"

"What are you talking about?"

"This entire time we have tolerated you because of the conditions of our grandfather's will but coming to the company... " he glared into my eyes.

I thought about all the times I was ignored, and I realized the gravity of what he was saying. They were just simply tolerating me? To be hated to this extent still amazed me. I really wanted to be this evil witch they were making me out to be. At least then I'd fit the image they had of me perfectly.

"Look, I have no idea what you're talking about. I'm fulfilling the role that your grandfather gave me. What's the problem?"

"Problem... problem?" I seemed to have stepped on a landmine. He walked towards me and I started backing up towards the wall. "You... a complete stranger. Show up out of nowhere --barely a few weeks ago, and suddenly we all have to accept that you have unconditional access not only as the rights as an heir to a multi-billion dollar corporation but to Ravenwolf itself. Can't you see what the problem is? You're the problem. You don't belong here. Not at this company and not in our house. Do you understand that?"

By this time, my back was against the wall, and I stared up at him, defiantly.

"You... do you think this is something I wanted!" I shouted back at him but he kept his composure.

"Do you think I'm going to buy your crocodile tears? Do you think I'm going to treat you fairly even if it was my grandfather's dying wish? Huh?!" He slammed his fist into the wall next to me, and I cringed a little, closing my eyes.

"Do us all a favour and forgo your rights to the company and inheritance. If it's money you want, I can get you that. I can get you as much as you want. Just make sure to get the hell out... and make sure..." at this moment, I made eye contact with him as he said, "I never see your face again..." he slowly moved away from me, and turned his back. I held my hand to my chest, and there was silence between us.

"Are you done?" I said and he slowly turned to look at me. "Because I'm just getting started..." with as much gusto as possible, I walked towards him. He firmly stood in place. "Have you ever thought about the reason why your grandfather did something this dramatic? Or rather should I say this impulsive? Maybe you should take a long look at yourself and wonder why the ways things are right now..."

"You... are way out of line," he crossed his arms, looking at me like I was defiled. Truly, someone unworthy of his time. Someone who was like a snake. Who had evil intentions.

"And you... are actually quite an asshole..." I glared at him and turned around. I didn't have to take this anymore. Maybe I should run away? Maybe I should run as far I could. I didn't want to be here. Before I was able to turn the handle, a hand came past my face and shut the door behind me. I could tell he was angry. But I wasn't scared of him. He grabbed my arm again and pulled me forward.

"What are you doing?! Let go!" he then pushed me down to sit in a chair and glared at me.

"You want to join this company so bad? Do you want a place here and at our house? Okay. I can do that for you" he leaned in further, placing his arms on the table behind me. The seat rolled towards the table. I looked away. His face was now right in front of mine. "But you better be prepared. Don't regret crossing me."

Moments later, he moved away and left the room. My heart was racing, as though it was on fire. I held onto my heart anxiously, a little afraid. But I decided that whatever he prepared, I would handle it. I wouldn't let that guy get the best of me. When all this was over, he will be the one begging for me to accept his apologies.

Soon after that event, Nathan arrived. He asked me why I looked so shaken... and I told him I just felt a little dizzy. His mini interrogation made me feel woozy.

Nathan brought me some water and then afterwards he toured me around the company, as promised.

When we finally came to the mechanic's section where they tested, fixed/diagnosed car troubles, I found myself at peace with the surroundings. Loud noises. Finally. No empty spaces and silences.

I was also brought to storefront briefly, and then came back to greet and speak with the head mechanic about how their cars are engineered. I learned a lot in my short time at the company. But it was a lot more interesting than I thought it was. I would be present there a few times a month. Coming to the mechanic area would be my solace...