Chapter 54

54 Setting An Ambush For Ella

Very early the next morning, after having breakfast together, Leon and Ella left the villa for their different place of work.

As expected, Ella’s two bodyguards resumed duty. They escorted her to her new company, where Denise was already waiting for them.

When Ella stepped out of the parking lot to her new company, she was overwhelmed by the structure before her.

The three-story building- Bliss lounge mini complex had been captivatingly transformed into a world-class fashion enterprise. Her brand name stood out on the top of the main building in gold and black artistic design. The wall of the second, third, and last floors were architecturally designed with intoxicating bulbous glass protruding through diamond frames. The first floor of the main building was divided into two main sections. One part was the beautifully decorated and furnished reception office. While the other was the fashion showroom which was distinctively illuminated to showcase brand wears.

It was completely breathtaking. It was a hundred times better when she compared it to her dream brand. Leon had indeed spared no cost at making her company stand out in the entire neighborhood.

Her company totally intimidated and overshadowed the F & K fashion home, which was a few metres away. When compared to her company, they were like an outdated old model seeking fame in a world of magical beauties. Even if they decided to repaint and restructure, their company would only get a rating of at most two points.

“Hmm... The battle has just started and 5 point goes to me for a breathtaking building.” Ella beamed with so much enthusiasm. “It’s payback time and I’ll show no mercy. This is going to be juicy.”

She walked into the reception hall and was welcomed in a presidential way by the smiling faces of some new staff members and Denise.

“Good morning Madam Ella...”

.....

“Welcome back Madam Ella...”

“Three cheers to the CEO of ARILPORTER BOSS...” Denise beamed with happiness.

Ella was speechless. Her eyes shimmered with imminent tears. It felt as though she was in a dream. “Could this really be happening?” She quizzed herself incoherently.

Denise walked over to her smiling and gave her a warm hug. “Welcome back, boss!”

“Oh, Denise!” Ella’s voice was clogged with emotion. “I remain Ella to you. I never want to forget how we started together. Thanks for everything.”

“Thank you, Ella. If not for you, I would still be jobless by now.” Denise pulled away from her arms and led her to an office; where they both sat down. If it’s okay, I would love to introduce you to the new faces you saw earlier. Tom and I took the liberty to screen a lot of interested applicants. We instructed some with talent, zealousness, and experience to hold on until you arrived. But for the few ones at the reception hall, we gave temporary employment. You alone will give the final vetting for them to be fully absorbed into ARILPORTER BOSS.”

Ella beamed at the mention of her brand name. She echoed it to herself causing Denise to smile broadly.

“This is just the beginning dear. There is more to come. Mr. Leon wants to make you the envy of the city. Wait until the grand opening.”

Ella hugged Denise again. Thanks again for everything. I can tell you have not rested since we left for our honeymoon. You are an outstanding Chief Operating Officer. I’m so lucky to have you on my team.

“Thanks for the accolades boss. Although, I had tremendous help from Tom.” Denise’s face flushed at the thought of her sweet Tom.

“Is there something I’m missing?” Ella raised an eyebrow.

“We’ll talk about that later if we have the time. There’s a lot to be done. By the way, when are we officially opening to business?” Denise quizzed with burning curiosity.

“Thursday, this week,” Ella said proudly.

“Wow!” Denise suddenly stood. Boss, If I may, we have to get back to work. We have limited time.”

“Ella, remember? You are forbidden to call me boss.” Ella stood up and gazed lovingly into her best friend’s eyes. “Every employee of my company can address me with the right title except you.”

“Aww!... Okay Ella,” Denise beamed. They both left the office to meet the new temporary staff members. While Denise reached out to the screened awaiting job seekers.

At some point in the interview process, Ella, – who was still learning all about managerial positions reached out to Leon for help.

Rescheduling his business appointments, Leon left the Treshvire fashion complex to go assist his wife.

After four to five hours of gruesome drilling and scrutinization, Leon and Ella, working as a team, selected capable hands to work for ARILPORTER BOSS. At this point, the company’s organogram was almost filled. The managerial team had been carefully selected. What was left were mere positions that Ella and Denise could handle all by themselves.

Leon scanned and observed the weariness in Ella’s eyes. He wanted to give her a neck and shoulder massage. But this was an office environment and he hated mixing business with pleasure. He encouraged her to round up early and return home on time for dinner. Also, he warned her not to stop by her former house for any reason. After that, he brushed her lips with a brief kiss and left for his office.

After a bit more work, Denise led Ella to her prized CEO office. Ella was overwhelmed again by its magnificent display of luxury. It was so spacious and intimidating in elegance and sophistication. From the rare enchanting art collection displayed on the wall, to the large customized mahogany desk, and other standard office furnishings. It was an office designed for nobility. Ella walked to the floor-to-ceiling diamond framed glass window and appreciated the scenery below.

“Oh Leon, you have completely swept me off my feet. This is just too much for me.” Her eyes glimmered with tears as she whispered to herself.

Denise sensed her emotions and gave her some space to be by herself.

Ella didn’t notice Denise leave as her mind drifted to Frost’s office and she smirked. It was like comparing Mount Everest to Mount Wycheproof. Kyle would die of a heart attack if he saw her office now. But what if... A vibration in her handbag jolted her back to reality. She unzipped her handbag and brought out her phone.

“Yikes!” Her eyes widened. “I totally forgot my promise to Susan.” She quickly dialed Susan’s number and Susan received the call on the first ring.

“Whatever, have I done to you to deserve all this ill-treatment?” Susan’s irritated voice boomed through the phone speaker causing Ella to wince from the harsh sound. “Just tell me you don’t want me staying over at your place and I will understand. You didn’t have to lie or give me false hope. Do you know how long I have been trying to reach you and you bluntly refused to take my calls? Do you even know what the time is currently? That means I have to pay for another day in this godforsaken expensive hotel. Why Ella? Why are you doing all this to me? Tell me now or am I suddenly too low of a friend to hang out with? Her Highness!” Susan hissed.

Susan’s real irritation was the fact that things were not going according to her plan. It was almost evening and she had no idea where Ella lives. Richard had been breathing down her neck for a chance to meet Ella and this irked her so much. It was always Ella. Ella here, Ella there, Ella everywhere. She couldn’t wait to witness Ella’s downfall.

Ella gawked in disbelief at her phone. Why was Susan overreacting? Why was she spilling out all these unnecessary and hurtful words? How could Susan refer to her as a liar? This is just too much for her stressed head to take right now.

“Susan, I’m sorry I didn’t take my calls because I’ve been busy. I honestly forgot about my promise to you yesterday. Nevertheless, I would not take that tone from you, calling me a liar or acting so hysterical.” Ella’s nose crinkled in disgust. “I meant it when I said you could stay in my place and I intend to keep my promise. But since it’s already late and I have some things to move out of my apartment before you can stay there, I’ll see you tomorrow. Send me your account number and I’ll settle the extra hotel accommodation.”

Susan, sensing Ella’s irritation, instinctively apologized. She was bent on seeing Ella and knowing her place. She didn’t want to wait until the next day before setting the motion for her evil plans. It has to be today or Richard would squeeze the living life out of her.

“You know, you could be very busy tomorrow again and I wouldn’t want to disturb you at work.” Susan’s voice was softer and gentle. “Tell me where you stay and I’ll take a chattered taxi there and wait for you. I could even help in whatever you want to move to your company.”

Ella reasoned with Susan and reluctantly agreed. She meticulously directed Susan to her place and ended the call. She was so exhausted from work and Susan’s bickering, that she forgot Leon’s earlier warning.

After two more hours at her company, she gave some final instructions and left with some workers and a truck, to her former apartment.

As earlier agreed, Susan was waiting at Ella’s porch when she arrived. They both exchange pleasantries briefly, then Ella set to work. While everyone including Susan were busy working, Richard, – who had been in hiding behind Ella’s house, – slipped in through the back door that had been secretly opened by Susan.

Within forty-five minutes, the workers at Ella’s apartment concluded their job and left with the truck. While Ella sat back for coffee and a brief chat with her friend.

“Ella, I need to quickly use the bathroom for two minutes. Please don’t leave, I’ll be right back.” Susan faked an excited smile.

“Is that why you are screaming your request like I’m deaf or something,” Ella scoffed. ” It’s just the two of us in here. Please go, before you mess yourself up,” she chuckled.

Ella went over to the kitchen to check the brewing coffee. Seeing that it was ready, she carefully lifted the coffee pot. She was about to pour the coffee into the two mugs in front of her when her nose picked up a familiar scent that made her freeze.