GENEVIEVE POV

I sighed for the umpteenth time as I struggled to choose between the three dresses lying on my bed. One was a floral gown that fitted well, the others looking rather good, but it was not giving the vibes I wanted.

I glanced at my phone, the memory of the last two days crawling through my mind. I sat, looking outside the window of my new room in New Zealand.

Yes, New Zealand. It was the country I selected out of the three countries I was offered by my school. The others were literally countries closer to the United States of America,' Mexico and Chicago.'

No one had to tell me that my presence wasn't needed in the States because it reminded me of some things. Things I wanted to leave in the past.

But then, I felt guilty at the fact that I ignored all the calls from my mum. It was so difficult to stay angry at her, remembering how she treated me so well for the past twenty-five years of my life.

I had spent only a few days with Anabelle before reaching New Zealand. And even though she tried to persuade me a million times, I didn't listen. I already made up my mind. I had only informed my mum via message that I traveled. Ever since then, I had gotten a hundred calls from her, before finally switching off the phone.

I glanced at my phone, as I reached out to it, the only thought ringing in my ears was to call my mum. I breathe out, putting on my phone. I called as she picked on the second ring.

"Child. Are you fine? I've been worried about you." Worry was boldly laced over her voice, the stab of guilt eating me up again.

I should be mad at her, but I couldn't. Instead, I felt guilty for throwing the blame on her for keeping such a secret away from me.

"I'm fine. I am getting ready for my job now. I have to go." I closed my eyes, trying not to imagine the sadness on her face, at my lack of interest in wanting to talk to her.

"Genevieve," her soft voice rang through.

"I'm sorry I kept something that important from you. I really love you and was scared to lose you. Always remember I love you okay." I nodded at her words, gripping harder on the phone as if it would leave my hand anytime soon.

"Thanks mum. Bye." With that, I hung up the call.

I breathe out, as a lone tear escapes my eyes. At that point, I wasn't sure whether I was still holding grudges against my foster parents, but yet it hurt me that I wanted to run away from them. It took a lot of courage to make that decision.

The tick tock sound of my phone jolted me out of my reverie as I picked it. It indicated a message from dad.

He never called. Not that he cared about me. He was only after his interests,' selling me off into an arranged marriage.

The thought of it makes me sick.

Reflecting back, it dawned on me, I should have figured out he wasn't my real father. He never showed me that fatherly love. He never encouraged me but was bound on discouraging me.

I took one last look at my phone before unlocking to see the message.

"You really think running away will help you? You will be an ungrateful child if you do not come back to marry Anderson. Our lives are in your hands, and if we suffer or die, our blood will be on you." I gasped in shock at the message, as I hit the delete button.

I wasted no time in picking my work clothes, hoping it would take my mind off that cruel message.

I finally settled for a pencil skirt with blue blouse along with a set of black stiletto heels. The urge to leave was suddenly greater than usual.

"I won't let his words get to me." I kept chanting in my head, hoping it would stop the sinking feeling in the pit of my stomach.

..........

I glanced at the skyscraper in front of me, the morning sun glazing against it, making it look stunning. I glanced at my watch, a small smile creping to my lips, at realizing I was thirty minutes earlier than the scheduled time.

I took strides inside, greeting the receptionist as she offered the sweetest smile, after I handed her a letter. She directed me to the Managing Director office as I took the elevator.

Throughout my elevator ride to the fifteenth floor, I suddenly felt nervous. What if I failed at the interview? Or what if I wasn't competent enough?

It was at that moment I wished Anabelle were around. But for now, I could only encourage myself to stay calm and confident, even when it's almost as if the confidence were clouded with insecurities.

The elevator opened as I walked straight to the front door with a tag on it. I knocked as a voice rang through beckoning me to come in.

Closing the door behind, my eyes met with the manager, his gaze sweeping past me for a while.

"Good morning sir," I greeted.

"Good morning Miss Genevieve Armstrong, please sit." I nodded, taking a seat in front of him.

His gaze firmly at a document, as I took in his features. He looked like he was in his early forties, slight gray hair evident on his black full hair.

Resting his chin on the back of his palm, he smiled.

"I'm quite impressed by your punctuality. And just going through your CV, I realized how talented and well skilled you are." My lips curled up into a smile at his comment.

"I'm curious, though. Apart from the fact that you are the best for this job, why didn't you accept the job offer in the States?"

My mind sank at his words, and I was beginning to see clearly he wasn't minding his business.

"I just wanted to explore." I lied, not looking him in the eyes.

He sighed, as I fiddled with my fingers. I couldn't help but remember why I left the States. I was running away from everything.

My foster parents, my betrothed marriage, all my pasts. I wanted to start a new life here in New Zealand. It seems quiet and perfect for a personality like mine.

"Congratulations, you are the lady for the job. You can start work tomorrow," he announced. My heart leapt faster than usual.

I expected it, but I felt happier.

He handed me a file, as I took it. "Here is a file containing the details of your job, as well as a contract. Take your time to go through it before signing."

I nodded with optimism glowing in me, as I scanned through. I wasn't sure if the excitement in me was what prevented me from thoroughly reading. I was more than ready to start as soon as possible.

A pen in my hand, I placed down my signature before handing it to my face, a smile boldly written all over my face.

"A soft copy of this will be sent to you. Mrs. Robinson will be waiting at the lobby to take you on a tour round the company today. All the best."

We shook hands, as I left.

The moment I stepped out felt as if I was out of daze. Reality dawned on me, as I felt giddy.

I smell freedom. From my past, betrayal and arranged marriage.

I was ready to start a new life.

GENEVIEVE POV,

I stared at the skyscraper, lost in its glorious sight. The windows blazing against the morning sun, creating the perfect look.

I was going to work in this company, and I was happy about it. Everything seemed so perfect.

My eyes widened in shock at the sight in front of me as I entered the lobby. Footsteps approached, as each one walked steadily to and fro the place.

It was different from the sight I saw the previous day. Everyone was calm, each one to its own work. But today, it was loud. Everyone was on their feet.

My thoughts were broken by a voice as I turned abruptly." Miss. Is everything okay? You have been standing there for a while, which is not really the best thing to do presently."

"Um. Everything is fine. I just got a job here. Why is everywhere tense?" I quickly spoke, hoping to get a reason why the place seems to be in an up heave.

"Oh. You can reach out to the Manager's office. Apparently, there will be some transfer of workers, as the CEO in charge demanded."

I nodded at her words mouthing a thank you, as she left

I reached out, my legs taking me to the front of the elevator leading to the Manager's office, with a thought in mind: Never to be transferred.

Everything seemed so programmed, and I knew for a certainty that something seemed off somewhere even though I could not place what it was.

Well, not until my eyes met with that of the Manager.

"Congratulations Miss Genevieve. You have been transferred back to our biggest branch in the United States."

One, two, three seconds passed as I stared at his right hand placed forward to congratulate me. I was shocked.

What the hell!

Yet, I could hear my inner self cautioning me to be calm.

"Wait, what?" The words finally spilled out of my mouth.

"Even though you are a graduate of Business Administration, your Résumé showcased some of the skills you have, and the branch company is interested in having you."

My heart beat more than usual, and I could not help but blame Anabelle for adding too much information to my CV. She must have included quite a lot about my skills.

"But sir, is there nothing you can do to stop me from getting transferred? I chose this company because I felt it was the best for me. Please do something about this sir," I pleaded. I said a silent prayer hoping he would change his mind.

The look on his face says otherwise. He breathes out gently, before beckoning me to sit.

I sat with my head wagging with so many thoughts. Going back to the States meant many things, and involved going back to face my past, which I wasn't ready to.

"You have potentials Miss Genevieve, and I'm afraid this company does not suit you perfectly. Going through your CV made me not object to you getting transferred. Our United States branch company needs talented people like you. I'm sorry Miss, but this transfer is an order from above and there is nothing I can do about it. Your flight has been booked for tomorrow."

My words got stuck to my throat and that was when I realized it was better to keep silent. There was nothing I could do.

I said a quick thank you before I strode out of the room.

I didn't wait any longer, as I left.

Stepping outside, I felt a gust of wind, the scenes from the past week suddenly hitting me more than ever before.

It was a bad day for me, and thinking about it only made me sad. Not only was I transferred back to the States, but my flight was booked for tomorrow.

It felt really weird that all this was happening. But then, at a second thought, I felt like staying over in New Zealand instead of going back, but now it seemed impossible since the company had booked my flight.

And I doubt if my savings will be enough if I thought of staying over searching for a job. What if my College got a wind about the fact that I didn't go along with the job offer transfer. After all, they made it easy and possible for me to get a job with a good pay.

I facepalmed, feeling so exasperated. Walking down to my apartment was not enough to brood over the million thoughts going on in my head.

I opened the door to my room, as I slumped on the bed, staring at the ceiling. I've only been in Zealand for two days, and the sudden dread of what could go wrong was boldly written over me.

My phone rang jolting me out of my reverie as I stared at the screen. A sigh of relief left my mouth as I picked the call instantly.

"I've been transferred back to the United States."I dropped the bomb before she could say her first word.

"What? Why?" I rolled my eyes at her constant use of those words, especially in the state of shock.

"Apparently, there is a need for more recruits at the headquarters there. And judging by my skills and educational background, I fit in better there."

I sighed, picking myself off the bed. "Was there nothing you could do? This seemed rather forced." She voiced out.

"I begged the Managing Director 'a thousand times'. My flight had been booked already. So, by tomorrow, I jet. I hope I would still be welcomed at your place." I creased my forehead at the thought of seeing any of my foster parents.

Just thinking about going back gave me the creeps.

"It's fine. You are always welcome. But don't you think you should forgive them already, especially your mum. She is distressed about you."

I shook my head at Anabelle's lamentation. If only she knew what I was passing through. Of course, she knew. She was just too merciful and forgiving perhaps to a fault.

"I'm thinking of finding a new job here, but the odds are against me. What do you think I should do?" I asked, hoping it would be good enough to talk about something else.

"Seriously? Anyway, do as you like." She hissed, as I could sense the irritation in her words.

"Maybe we should talk later." I stated.

"No. I have something important to say." A small smile crept to my lips, as she spoke.

I knew she couldn't be angry forever.

"Hit me," I said. I used that opportunity to open a bottle of water, as I gulped it down in one go, before letting out an exhilarating breath.

"Don't you think it is weird that you are suddenly transferred? I mean..."

There was a knock on the door, stopping her from speaking further.

"Someone is at the door. Can we talk later?" I asked, heading for the door.

The call ended as I opened the door.

My eyes met with a pair of brown eyes, my heart skipping slightly at how a stranger ended up at my door.

"Hi ma'am. I'm here to deliver this to you."

With a smile plastered on his face, he finally spoke.

"I didn't order," I refuted, as his brows creased.

"It's a delivery from someone. He requested for it to be delivered to Miss Genevieve Armstrong." He broke the ice, my brain freezing for seconds.

"Ohhhh." I mouthed, my head spinning around, who might want to give me something.

I haven't made any friends in Zealand. The only person who came to mind was the Managing Director. But why on earth would he want to give me something?

He wasn't so nice this morning.

I groaned inwardly.

He handed a box shaped like stuff, covered with embroidery design and ribbon.

"Here it is. You can sign here."

I nervously wrote down my initials and slightly crossed it, before holding on to what seemed like a gift.

I bade the delivery guy before shutting the door behind me, my hand clamped against the gift.

Settling on my bed, different thoughts fought against opening the stuff. What if it was a time bomb?

My heart accelerated at the thought of it, as I dropped it on the bed.

" What could be the worst that could happen?" I could hear my subconscious winding in on me.

I untied it gently, only to reveal a golden box, which glittered like never before. It was beautiful with a gem shape design.

Anticipation kicked in as I was more than eager to know what was inside.

My eyes widened in admiration at the sight of what I saw. A bracelet. A rounded one with black and blue imprint of a gem shape alongside three letters boldly written on it: GEM. I was lost staring at it.

Curiously, I placed it on my wrist as it fitted well. It was like the most beautiful thing I have ever seen in a long time. Simple yet beautiful.

It was better than the one Bryan gave me, which I had intentionally burnt after we broke up.

I swallowed the lump of saliva in my throat suddenly realizing I didn't know who sent it.

My eyes picked the little piece of white paper folded in the box, as I picked it, slowly opening it.

"TO THE GEM OF MY LIFE."

Those were the words on the paper, leaving my heart melting. Yet, there was only one question in my mind.

Who sent it?

GENEVIEVE POV

Getting back to the States the previous night only had my head spinning with different thoughts. Plus, I kept having recurring dreams, which kept me awake most of the night.

The scene that happened at the restroom kept replaying in that dream, reminding me of how my ex best friend and ex boyfriend stabbed me in the back with betrayal.

I was awake like an owl at night, developing a headache the next morning. I could not help but yearn for rest in the early morning. I was grateful I received a day off work via email from the new company I was to work with.

If I hadn't, I probably would have forced myself to go, and I wasn't a hundred percent sure I would be sane enough to work, not to mention that I needed more rest and might break down if I did not rest.

I slept for a while, as I woke up to an aroma nestling on my nostrils, prompting me to sit up. My eyes met with that of mum as she placed a tray of food close to my bed.

Her gaze met mine as she smiled. "You are awake?" she said. I simply gave her a nod.

" I made one of your favorite meal. You should eat it while it is still warm."

I was silent, determined not to say a word. I wished Anabelle had allowed me to stay over at her side when I arrived from New Zealand, but her persuasiveness to stay with my foster parents got me.

It was clearly surprising how I couldn't go with my other option, that is, to stay in Zealand, look for a good paying job and probably start a new life. I've returned to the United States and shouldn't be regretting it right?

Due to constant begging from Annabelle and my foster mother, I had to follow her back home. Not to mention the threatening messages from my foster father, which was not helping with the grudge I held against him.

As if she was reading my mind, she said, "I'm sorry for your dad's behavior. He just seemed to be under a lot of pressure lately."

I simply hummed, adjusting my pillow as I rested on it.

She moved closer, as she sat on my bed. Her movement was slow, and I needed no one to tell me she was nervous.

My heart sank.

"Dear, you look pale. I think you should rest more. I can call your workplace requesting days off," she lamented, her tone filled with concern.

"It's fine. I was given today's off to settle down. I will be resuming work tomorrow," I finally spoke, as she nodded.

"I will leave you now. Remember to take your meal. I left some medications with it. Eat your food while it is warm." She gave me a smile, which I reciprocated slightly.

She turned the door knob, as I realized something. I should appreciate her efforts.

"Thank you, mum. I appreciate it." She turned abruptly at hearing my voice, a bright smile on her face, before leaving the room.

Yet, I didn't feel those words truly from my heart. I knew in my heart I was still fueling a grudge. I still haven't forgiven her, not to mention her husband. I hated they held such truth from me, and saw me as something they could trade for wealth.

I stared at the food, contemplating whether to eat it or not. Staring at it reminded me of the last time I tasted the food. It was keto pancakes with syrup, whipped cream topping and fresh berries. I succumbed the moment my stomach growled, indicating hunger.

Yet, there was something on my mind.

How to figure out a way to be far away from them.

#THE NEXT MORNING

I had a lot to think of, and I was glad I came to some conclusions. Yet, I wondered what my day at work would be like. Possibly more mysteries and surprises.

I took a sip of my tea, as my mum came into view. It occurred to me, I never bothered to pester her the more about who my real parents were.

I shook my head, trying to fully ignore the thoughts in my head. I already had a lot on my head. I don't think I was ready for more shocking news.

"You know, your dad and I discussed and decided to set a date for you and Anderson to know more about each other."

Just like that, I lost my appetite at her words.

"I doubt that is necessary. I haven't and won't accept that marriage proposal," I stated firmly, standing up.

"Tell me why you don't want to marry that gentleman. He is a nice man."

I scoffed at her use of words.

I wondered how much she knew about him.If only she knew men like him could pretend a lot.

It was staring right at me, what they really wanted. Both my foster dad and his wife.

"I would rather not marry because I was betrothed. I want to marry for love, be independent and live a simple lifestyle with my husband. You know how much I hate being seen by others- the world. There is no way I would remain low-key if I marry that billionaire." I let out my concern, but it wasn't enough.

I wanted to vent it all out and let her see how deeply hurt I was. Not only were they not my real parents, but they were planning to sell me away.

I was glad I was resuming today, and I was more ready to request for transfer if possible. I couldn't stay in the States any longer.

Silence followed as I stood up and left for my room. I took one last glance, doing my usual prep talk, hoping it would ease the insecurities I had battled with continuously.

With my small bag hanging over my shoulder, I steadily opened the door to my room, trying as much as possible to avoid any form of contact with my foster parents.

Seeing their faces reminds me of numerous things. The betrayal, sadness, hurt ... Things I would rather not remember but they kept coming anyway.

Luck wasn't on my side as my gaze landed on mum the moment I stepped into the living room. Her face was boldly written with worry as she gazed at me. I could not help but look downward for a while, while trying to steady my breathing.

"Genevieve," her voice stopped my forward movement, as I halted.

I sighed, trying to put it in mind to not get angry.

"It's your first day at work and you only had tea. I prepared a meal for you. Try it out, possibly when you are at work."

I stared at the food flask she was holding, as she pushed it forward towards me before meeting her gaze.

"Thank you, but I am late for work already."

Not waiting for her response, I strutted away.

I took a cab, trying not to reflect on everything that had been happening to me.

I finally got to the company, and it was stunning. My steps halted as I took a moment to admire the lobby area.

I was directed to the secretary after a few confirmations. I'm not sure why but I really felt nervous at the sight of the secretary. Perhaps because of her beauty or perhaps her look of dislike towards when I greeted her. I could easily denote she didn't like me the moment she sized me up from head to toe.

I bit my lips slightly before slowly meeting her gaze.

"I guess you are the new personal assistant of my boss," she said, not hiding the irritation in her voice. I swallowed, nodding quietly.

"I can't believe the boss still felt the need for a personal assistant when I as her secretary can fill in for both."

Now I know why she doesn't look too good when she saw me. But that was the least of my concerns now.

I am furious because the Manager at New Zealand deemed it fit to lie to me that the reason I was being transferred was mostly because they needed me for my skills. Instead, I as a Business Administration graduate will be a Personal assistant to the CEO. How great!

"Can I leave for the CEO office now?" I asked, her eyes scanning through me before landing on the letter I gave to her.

"It's a relief you are not that beautiful. At least, you won't succeed in seducing the CEO. I know your kind," she mumbled.

"Excuse me." The words came out of my mouth before I could stop it. Yet, I wished I said more than that.

I was slowly boiling in anger, my hands suddenly sweaty, as my insecurities started setting in.

"What are you going to do now?" Her thick fake eyelashes moved up and down.

"Nothing. It will be a waste of time to argue with a secretary that can't do her job well."

"You...." Her voice went off as we stared at each other viciously.

Five, ten seconds went on, and we were still in a staring competition.

"You can't see the CEO today. That's final," she sneered.

I was at the bout of giving up, when a voice rose, coming from my back.

"And who gave you the permission to stop her from seeing me?"

My breath took yet another leap as I turned instantly, my eyes meeting with that familiar pair of gray eyes.

"Hello Miss Genevieve." My heart beat faster than usual, a lot suddenly running through my mind.

What the hell!