MY PERFECT BODYGUARD 2 CHAPTER ONE ,: DIVERGING PATHS AND UNSETTLED AFFAIRS

Dear Richard,

I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. It's been 312 days since our paths diverged, each of us embarking on a journey to discover our destinies. I want to take this opportunity to share a glimpse of my adventures and the developments in my life.

One significant aspect is the appointment of Anthony as the acting CEO of the company. Anthony has proven to be an exceptional individual, combining intelligence, a mechanical engineering degree, and a valuable management certificate. His capabilities shine as he efficiently oversees the day-to-day operations, manages schedules, and leads crucial meetings. While I remain committed to my studies, handling signings and strategic decisions, Anthony has become an invaluable asset to the company.

Speaking of studies, the academic pursuits keep me engaged and challenged. As much as I enjoy the learning process, there's a void that persists – the absence of our regular interactions. I find myself missing the camaraderie we shared, the discussions, and your insightful perspective. It's a testament to the bond we forged during our time working together.

This letter marks my 34th attempt to connect with you, and I haven't received a response yet. I understand that life can get busy, especially with the demands of academic endeavors. I choose to believe that your studies have consumed much of your time, making it challenging to write back. However, the hope of reconnecting with you keeps me going, and I eagerly await the moment when our paths converge again.

In the meantime, I trust that your studies are progressing well, and I wish you success in all your endeavors. Please take care of yourself, and know that you are missed.

Yours sincerely,

Linda

As Linda sealed the letter in an envelope, one of her maids entered the room, announcing, "Your driver is here, ready to take you to school." Observing the sealed letter, the maid remarked, "He hasn't replied to any of your letters? He couldn't even share his phone number for you to call him."

Despite their hierarchical roles, Linda had cultivated an environment where her employees were not just mere staff but friends she could trust and connect with on a personal level.

Lyla, I appreciate your concern and watchfulness. However, Richard didn't possess a phone before he departed, explaining my inability to obtain his number. It's possible he's exceptionally busy, as I've heard that tech schools can be stringent due to the limited time they allocate to cover the entire curriculum.

"Don't worry too much about him; I'm sure he'll write back," Linda reassured Lyla as she packed the sealed letter into her bag. "Make me some eggos for lunch; it's been a while since I've had those," she added before leaving for school, getting into the car that awaited her.

Upon reaching Pine Stellar University, an institution tailored for high-class and exceptionally bright students, Linda found herself in a world where affluence, intelligence, or a notable family background defined the student body. Accompanied by her friends Natasha and Cecilia, whom she had recently befriended on campus, Linda delved into the day's plans.

"Once classes are done, we'll head to Karako, sing some songs, and then have a girls' night with drinks until we're in high spirits. After that, we'll have a sleepover at my place," Natasha proposed with enthusiasm, setting the stage for an eventful evening.

Cecilia chimed in, expressing her excitement for the idea. However, Linda, although intrigued, regretfully declined, mentioning other commitments. "I wish I could join you guys, but I have somewhere to go," she explained.

Natasha, undeterred, suggested, "Maybe another time?" to which Linda replied with a promise. As they approached the lecture halls, plans for a lively evening lingered in the air.

"Okay, it's fine. Tomorrow, promise?" Natasha confirmed.

"Promise," Linda affirmed as they entered the lecture hall, taking their seats and awaiting the commencement of classes.

"It's not easy being a company owner at such a young age. As much as I envy you, I also pity the pressure you bear with the lives of about a thousand employees in your hands," Natasha expressed, her concern evident.

Linda replied, "Well, I don't know. I just keep going through Christ who strengthens me."

While they were engrossed in their discussion, a trio of boys approached them. These were no ordinary boys; they hailed from some of the wealthiest families in the city. On the left and right stood Kalvin and Jeremy, sons of a prominent politician and the mayor. In the middle was Stanley, the son of arguably the wealthiest man in the city. Known as the Glorious 3, they were not only popular but also influential.  accompanying Stanley, seemed intent on talking to Linda.

"Hey, Linda, can I have a word with you?" Stanley approached.

"Why can't you just say it here?" Linda challenged, but Stanley insisted, leading them to a quieter corner.

"I've expressed my feelings for the past three weeks, and you haven't given me a positive reply," Stanley admitted.

"What do you mean positive reply? I've clearly stated that I don't want to have anything to do with it," Linda asserted.

"Listen, Linda, you're too beautiful to be this stubborn. All you have to do is say yes. Imagine, we can form an empire together, get married, and my dad will back us up," Stanley proposed.

Linda, unimpressed, countered, "Do you think I'll fall for that after your dad manipulated you to manipulate me into marrying you? You must think I'm a joker like you."

Stanley persisted, "You might be playing hard to get, but the reality is, people out there can't stand the fact that a young woman runs a company of that status. Whether you believe it or not, you need me."

"One of my crew mentioned that Nico Group is getting dangerously close to bankruptcy," Linda said, a subtle smile playing on her lips as she observed Stanley's surprise at her awareness.

"You think I don't know?" Linda continued, seeing through Stanley's intentions. "That's why you need Prime Tech, so your dad can get his hands on the company. You must really think I'm stupid."

Fuming with anger, Stanley approached Linda, whispering to her ear, "You think you're too smart, but you don't know what's coming. I want to assure you that I'm not giving up on you yet." With that, Stanley walked away, leaving Linda with her thoughts and a sense of determination.

As Linda rejoined her friends to resume their discussion, Cecilia inquired, "What does that jerk want this time around? I thought you told him to stay clear. Why is he still bothering you?"

Linda rolled her eyes and replied, "Still the same thing – 'Marry me, and together we'll create an unstoppable empire.'" Linda mimicked Stanley's persistent proposal, and the girls burst into laughter.

Amid their laughter, the lecturer entered the room, signaling the start of the class.

In the evening, after classes, Linda stepped outside, and her driver swiftly pulled up. She directed him to Maria and Cynthia's place, resulting in a roughly one-hour drive. Upon arrival, she joined them in various household tasks, helping cook, clean, and sharing a meal together.

As they sat in the dining area, the conversation shifted to Richard. "He still hasn't said anything yet," Maria remarked.

"Yeah, I think he's super busy," Linda responded.

Cynthia chimed in, "We haven't heard from him either, so don't feel bad. Maybe he's caught up with things or hasn't quite settled in."

These comforting words eased Linda's concerns. After a delightful dinner, it was already 10 p.m. Linda's driver returned, and as she waved goodbye, she assured Maria and Cynthia, "I'll see you guys next week." They reciprocated the gesture, waving until Linda's car disappeared into the night.