Death, a Biography, is a fictional horror novel. It is crass, violent, profane, and not meant for the light hearted reader. Imagine living in a world surrounded by fools. For years your frustration grows, and no matter what you try to do you cannot free yourself from the preverbal ideocracy. Nom DePlume is just such a man, only one day he is granted the dearest wish of his heart. Nom, a grad student working as a truck driver is: intelligent, well educated, and the sort of person who always can find a reason to have a chip on his shoulder. One day while driving in Texas he finds that he has the ability to wish death on those he hates. Being scientifically minded, Nom proceeds to experiment searching out the scopes of his new found powers. He begins in Texas, a state he despises. As he moves on from each experiment, he picks his prey to match some facet of modern western life that he hates. Each receive a fate customized to match what Nom feels they did wrong. Nom then travels home to Michigan after initially defining his new role in life. In Michigan he uses his powers to settle a few old scores and family business. A run-in with an old friend convinces him that he is being selfish for not using his god like powers to better mold humanity. The end of the book sees him taking on the leader of the free world. Nom now personifying Death, learns that he has a true foe, Life.Nom will return.

Gun-Ho was driving on a highway; he was heading home after the meeting with the elementary school teacher, which was set up by his sister. He was feeling depressed after meeting with the lady. Gun-Ho was passing by Seohae Bridge when he received a call from his sister.
"How was it? Did you like her? She is a bit short, but she seems to be really smart."
"I don't think she is a good match for me."
"Why not? I really like her."
"Just know that I am not attracted to her. I am hanging up the phone now."
Gun-Ho hung up the phone when his sister was about to say something.
Gun-Ho received a call from his mother a few minutes later.
"How did the meeting go? Your sister told me the girl looked smart."
"Yes, mom. She looked smart, but I don't think I would meet with her again."
"Don't be too picky, son. There is no perfect girl. People say the first girl you meet with is the best girl for you."
"No, mom. I won't meet with her again."
"Your dad and I are desperate for your marriage. Your dad is expecting that you will marry a school teacher."
"I marry a person, not a teacher, mom."
"It would be really nice if you marry a person who is a school teacher."
"I'm not marrying the school teacher I just met. She probably would agree with me. I am driving right now. I will talk to you later, mom."
"Gun-Ho."
Gun-Ho hung up the phone before his mother could say anything more.
Gun-Ho let out a deep sigh while holding the steering wheel.
 
GH Mobile placed a job posting on the WorkNet website looking for workers in their production field at the new factory location.
Once the opening jobs were posted on WorkNet with salary and benefits, a lot of people applied for the position. The company had 30 vacant positions to fill in, and more than 600 people applied for the job. The positions especially attracted many job applicants because they were employees positions rather than contractors position.
The general affairs manager gave a report to Gun-Ho about hiring workers.
"I was thinking that we select candidates based on papers, and then the managers and directors will give them an interview. And then you sir, will interview each selected candidate as a final hiring step."
"You don't have to go through three steps to hire workers in the production field. Just hire them with two screening processes."
"Yes, sir."
"Who's going to do the interview with the applicants?"
"We haven't specifically decided yet, but I guess the plant manager and the internal auditor will do it."
"Have the plant manager, the internal auditor, you— general affairs manager—and Manager Jong-Suk Park at the production department do the interview."
"Yes, sir."
"For the first screening process, why don't you review the papers with Manager Jong-Suk Park? Since you are in charge of human resource matters and Manager Park will directly work with the new workers at the factory. It makes more sense that you two get heavily involved in the hiring process."
"Yes, sir."
 
When the general affairs manager was walking toward the door to leave the office carrying the approval sheet with him, Gun-Ho called for him.
"Don't we need to place an order for our winter uniform?"
"That's right. We distribute the uniforms to our workers every other year, and this is the year we are supposed to hand out the uniforms to the workers."
"The current uniform design is outdated and depressing. We have been using the same designed uniforms which Mulpasaneop had used, and we just changed the company name on them. Let's get a new design for our uniforms."
"Yes, sir. I will find a good design company for our new uniform."
"Actually, why don't you talk to the design team leader at GH Media? Here is their phone number."
"Who should I talk to?"
"Talk with Team Leader Min-Sook Oh. Mr. Jae-Sik Moon, who used to work at our security office, is working for GH Media too."
"Oh, I remember that. The lady who came to our building dedication ceremony is the president of GH Media, isn't she?"
"That's right."
"I will call them right away and discuss our uniform design with them."
"Since it is still a business between the two companies, ask them to issue a tax invoice for the design work."
"Yes, sir."
 
After the general affairs manager left the office, Gun-Ho thought that it was a good idea that he didn't take the president position of GH Media.
"Well, let's see. If the joint venture with Lymondell Dyeon is established, I will be the president of the joint venture company—GH Chemical. I am also the president of GH Mobile, where GH Chemical's raw materials will be used to manufacture products."
It could cause some sort of conflict of interest.
"I have to think about the problems that could be raised because I own several companies. I shouldn't cause any conflict of interest. It doesn't look good to the public either. My companies haven't gone public yet so there wouldn't be any problems for now, but I will have to figure out how I handle this issue."
 
Gun-Ho made a phone call to Chairman Lee at Cheongdam Town.
"Thank you, sir, for coming to my building dedication ceremony the other day."
"Don't mention it. The factory looked really nice."
"Well, I only came this far because of you, sir. You guided me to learn accounting when I worked as a factory worker."
"Haha, I did, didn't I?"
"Speaking of which, I'd like to invite you for dinner. Will you be available next week? We can go to Ms. Jang's bar—Pine."
"You don't have to do that."
"I insist, sir. I'd really like to have dinner with you. Why don't you come with your friend—Master Park—from Philosophy Hall in Gangnam?"
"Master Park? Hmm. Let's do this then. Master Park is retiring from his work with Philosophy Hall. We can celebrate his retirement together next week at Pine."
"Oh, is he retiring already? He is so popular in the field, and he is making good money, right?"
"He wants to build some sort of temple in his hometown—Goesan Town in Chungcheong province—and he wants to spend the rest of life enjoying nature, music, poems and those sorts of things."
"Haha, that sounds like him. Once you decide on a good day for the celebration, just let me know; I will make a reservation at Pine."
"Sounds good. I will let you know after discussing with Master Park."
 
Lymondell Dyeon sent a letter to Gun-Ho through Attorney Young-Jin Kim at Kim & Jeong Law Firm.
"President Goo? It came in."
"What came in?"
"We finally received a response from Lymondell Dyeon via fax."
"Oh, they sent a fax instead of email?"
"Yeah, they faxed us. They mailed the original letter to GH Mobile."
"Really? What are they saying?"
"Let me read it for you. I've already translated the letter."
 
[The idea of starting a joint venture which was initially suggested by GH Mobile in Korea highly intrigued us. We subsequently performed an interview with GH Mobile's president—Mr. Gun-Ho Goo—last month. We highly recognize his desire and will to do a joint venture with us.
Lymondell Dyeon's foreign investment committee reviewed GH Mobile's business plan and the interview record with its president, and they rendered a very positive decision. We are pleased to inform you that our committee gave a pass to GH Mobile based on their business plan and the interview record with its president.
Therefore, our staff of Lymondell Dyeon will visit GH mobile in Korea for business survey early next month. The vice president of the international business development department—Mr. Brandon Burke—will lead the team for the visit.]
 
Gun-Ho was delighted when he heard the familiar name—Mr. Brandon Burke.
"Mr. Brandon Burke is coming, huh?"
"That's really good. We've already met with him."
"When they come to our company, you will have to help us, Attorney Kim."
"Of course. Our law firm is contracted with GH Mobile for this specific matter."

This is the story of a poor young man whose poverty even shreds apart their family willing to climb his way through society and into the top. A very realistic novel that moves away from fantasy and sci-fi and focuses solely on the issues of society and life.

Arthur Tullett always led an average life. All he ever wanted was to get a stable job, marry a caring wife, be a fun father, and live without regrets.

All that came crashing down when his magic wielding, tentacle swinging, Cthulhu horror of a baby sitter paid him a visit. Before he knew it, things escalated out of control, and common sense became a thing of the past.

Now he has to venture across the universe solving mysteries left unexplained for eons. Meet bizarre civilizations full of alien wonders, and save them from cosmic terrors out there to gobble them up.

Join him on this fantastic journey full of laughter and passion through the stars.



Important Disclaimers:

Releases: 2 per week.

Chapter length : 1.5k - 2k words on average. Maybe be more but definitely not less.

This story contains no harem. I will show when I have to, and tell when I have to. English is my 4th language.

Today, Old Master Lu was very happy. It could be said that all his gloominess from before had been swept away. Initially, he had been terrified to have taken on such a horrible form. Although he had told everyone he was an ice-cream, he had known exactly what sort of creature he looked like in his heart.
Everyone in the surroundings had been mocking him, telling him to evolve into a pile of shit...or simply a bag of fertilizer.
Truthfully speaking, in this game that didn't allow one to delete their accounts regardless of what they evolved into, he wasn't able to accept it!
After spending his time in agony for two days, he finally gathered the courage and went to ask the instructor as to what he would evolve into. In the end, when he moved nearer to the instructor, the overlord next to her already pointed at him and cried out in alarm, "Feathers, a ball of feathers!"
At that moment, his heart turned cold!
But in the end, the instructor's next sentence was that he was a phoenix seed. Upon hearing that, he suddenly felt joy as though he just struck the lottery!
Until now, he was still feeling dizzy.
(I am an awesome phoenix?)
(Wahahaha, as expected...the heavens help those who help themselves!)
(Didn't I say that I've been attracting online traffic every day with my posts for the game. Even if I didn't get any credit for it, I did still work hard, right? How can the game bear to let me evolve into shit?)
He, who was still lost in excitement and happiness, suddenly received an email from the official game station.
"Dear player [My ancestor Old Master Lu didn't Cheat]. Hello, firstly, the game's backstage staff want to thank you for your selfless promotion of the game. Through the discussion of the work team, in order to thank you for your support, we gave you a special reward, granting you the bloodline of a hidden job. You should have already received it in game. But yesterday, the game's A.I. reported that all the elf players displayed immense dissatisfaction toward you possessing a hidden job. Hence, we hope that you could write another article regarding the strategy guide about the benefits of ordinary elf jobs to placate them. As for the information needed, we have already sent it to your email. In the future, the work team will give you remuneration according to the effects of your guide. We also hope that you can continue to support our game. Thank you!"
Signing off: Xiye Game Studio, sincerely wishing you well.
After receiving the email, Old Master Lu was stunned for some time. He then shouted in excitement, "As expected!!"
After that, he read through the content of the email many times, tears flowing down his face. As expected, his hard work wasn't wasted. The game studio truly had a conscience. His ancestor must be blessing him, allowing him to acquire a hidden job.
When he thought of this, he hurriedly replied to the email.
"Hello to every boss in the gaming studio. Firstly, I am really very honored to be able to receive the recognition of the official game station. Being able to write for such a wonderful game product, it's really my, Lu Xiaowei's, glory to be able to do so. The humble me appreciates and admires the efforts of the work team very much. Such an era-crossing game yet still choosing to treat the players so well. In addition, there are no moods to purchase anything in-game at all, resulting in the loss of a source of income for the gaming studio. I'm really very impressed by the work team's far-sighted strategy and will definitely do my very best to promote the game. I'll give all my meager strength to do so, and there's no need for your side to mention anything about remuneration. Lastly, I'm very thankful for the work team to grant me a hidden job. I wholeheartedly wish for [Star Ocean] to be popular, becoming a wondrous divine work that would never die off!"
Old Master Lu glanced at the email he wrote. After looking through a few times, he then carefully hit the reply button. He didn't expect his actions to be able to gain the notice of the official game station. This was truly a huge surprise. The excited him hurriedly tactfully declined the mention of remuneration.
He didn't care about this bit of remuneration. The cafes of his Lu Clan were extremely prosperous back in the time of his ancestor. Although the business had declined a lot when it came to his generation, he still wasn't thinking much for this bit of remuneration. Comparatively, he regarded the business value of this game much more highly.
Right now, the game showed no signs of earning any income by creating an in-game store. Since this was the case, this meant it was most probably planning to go for the gift card system, a one-time fee or a monthly fee system!
What did this represent?
This represented a huge business opportunity for the players.
As for charging a fee for in-game items, those p2w players wouldn't mind mindlessly throwing money at the game station. But then the space where top-quality players could perform would become very limited. If the balance of the in-game store was not that good, there was basically no space for normal players to perform. But if this game adopted the game style of [Titan], which implemented a one-time fee, things would be different!
Everyone would be on the same starting line. In that case, players who had spent a large amount of time and energy would have the advantage. This would also be fair as top-quality players had an even larger space to perform!
Originally, he felt that he no longer had an opportunity to make his ancestor's former glory to re-appear as he missed the starting phase of [Titan]. Yet, he didn't expect that he would encounter another divine work like [Star Ocean] in his robust years, and he even received such preferential treatment. This time around, if he couldn't succeed, he would truly have wasted the bloodline of his clan!
After all, his ancestor was a man who could go head-to-head with the number one mid-laner, FAKER, of the league of legends back then and boasted of a 50% win-rate against him. So, as his descendant, how could Old Master Lu's talent be weak?
When he thought of this, Old Master Lu grew increasingly emotional. He drew in a deep breath and opened up the information that the official game station had sent to him. He was preparing to use the information and write a good article. Maybe, they would then give him some good items in-game to reward him. This was a rare-to-come by backdoor chance; hence, he had to do this well.
Moreover, his hidden job was truly too ostentatious. Humans wouldn't worry about scarcity but uneven distribution. This hidden job of his would easily arouse jealousy in others. By writing this article well, he could lower the risks for himself.
Hence, he concentrated and read through the information. This read actually caused him to tremble. The system of this game was not ordinarily huge. If it wasn't because the game's performance in the early phase was so good, he even doubted if the game system could sustain balance when so many complex jobs were introduced. Just the elf race alone had so many jobs. There was even a note in the email saying that there would be even more races to choose from for new players in the future!
The more he thought about it, the higher the anticipation he felt in his heart for the game's later phase!
----------------------------------------
On the other hand, Xiye felt a little ashamed when he saw Old Master Lu's reply which stated that he didn't want any remuneration. Using his subject's natural talent like this while giving him nothing, even scamming him that his evolution into a phoenix seed was something given by the 'game', was this idea a little too dirty?
Could he really be a black-hearted overlord?
(Mn...This is just a makeshift stratagem due to my temporarily poor finances. In the future, when this overlord struck it rich, I will definitely treat these honest and simple indigenous players kindly.)
"Ding! Hello, respected Overlord Xiye. The few high-grade jobseekers you booked have already confirmed their interview timings. Do you want to meet with them?"
This voice caused Xiye who was thinking of other things to awaken from his stupor. After that, he collected his thoughts. This should be the reply sent to him by the talent network. He hurriedly opened up the email.
He read through the content. It basically stated that the recommended high-grade instructors were willing to meet him for an interview. Xiye felt his heart shake with excitement when he saw this. He stood up and rubbed his hands. He then instructed the A.I. to help him monitor the elves' evolution. He then prepared himself and headed out for a long journey.
As long as all of these things were settled, his first batch of basic combat force would appear and his large-scale expansion plan could finally be started!


Player: I'm a worker whose monthly salary doesn’t even hit $5,000. My monthly rental already takes up half of my salary, I don’t have a girlfriend and is reprimanded by my superior every day. However, I feel very happy because there has been a new virtual game recently. In the game, I have a powerful bloodline. Not only do I have my own fleet, I even have a powerful overlord that granted me a colonized planet. Although I know this is fake, but inside there, I found the meaning of my life!
Actually...the overlord who gave him the planet really wanted to tell him that this game wasn’t fake. (You really have your own fleet and colonized planet…) but the overlord knew that he couldn’t say this. Because, once he said it, these subjects who thought of themselves as ‘players’, would definitely not be as terrifyingly hardworking as now!!


➿
17 Hours Before..



River Kennedi enters the relative calm of his small, shared Apartment Complex. A rundown space, with second hand Furniture and displays of amateur art. A place kept spotless, except for the litter of completed, half finished and discarded paintings and drawings. The only case of disarray, against the washed out, but immaculate decor. 

River whisked his Raven black hair, away from his face. Squinting his emerald green eyes, against the burning haze of oil paint and acetone. He kicked off his old converse Sneakers, shaking off his knapsack--discarding it on the floor beside his shoes. He yawned marginally, feeling his body grow fatigued as his clothes rustled. His baggy Denims and Pullover Hoodie, a size to big for his petite frame. 

His face was contrite with weariness, and his legs ached from working a twelve hour shift. Something he was accustomed to, yet still found the side effects to be entirely bothersome. 

A loud clang in the Kitchen echoed throughout the Apartment. Capturing River's attention as he shimmied out of his grey Pullover, dropping it on the old, cloth Couch. 

"Shit!" The voice of his Roommate followed shortly after, making River chuckle lightly as he walked towards the Kitchen. 

James Bordeaux, the Roommate,  was standing over a spilled bucket of Canvas paint. A gruff frown on his subtly handsome features. His dirty blond hair caught up in a messy ponytail, and his blue eyes scowling at the predicament he faced. 

The paint had splattered all over the low, wooden cupboards--forming a puddle on the tiled floors. It's bright tint leaving speckles of red across the small, old doors. 

"That's gonna be a little hard to remove," River said, jolting James out of his terrified trance. 

"River! Goddammit, you scared the crap out of me!" James exclaimed frowning--his British accent as deep and attractive, as his magazine worthy face.

"You'll get over it, once you get that mess cleaned up. We can barely afford to pay for this place as it is and I'm pretty sure Ms. Corrigan won't appreciate your splatter art all over her Kitchen Cupboards." River mused and James mocked his smile. 

"Ha ha, you're a bloody comedian." James deadpanned, entirely annoyed. 

"And you're a bloody mess." River faked a British accent, causing James's bushy eyebrows to scrunch up in confusion. 

"Are you going to help me or not?" James asked, his ocean blue eyes pleading. 

River scoffed lightly, knowing well that he needed rest for the next day to come. Another five hours at the Burger Joint, and the next few hours of daylight searching for a new Job. 

"Nope." River said, walking towards the Refrigerator. The only decent piece of electrical appliance in the small, stuffy Apartment. 

"I hate you," James griped out and River grinned. 

"I'll live with myself." River said, removing a bottle of spring water. "Besides, I need to rest. I have a long day ahead tomorrow. You know I'd have helped, if I wasn't so sleepy." 

"This is why you should have chosen Art as a Major, yah bloody wanker." James implored, watching River down the bottle of Water in just one go. 

"I don't think your Professors would appreciate my stick figures, and smearing of paint with my tiny and not so manly fingers. Enigmatic my ass." River scowled with a thoughtful glance at James who rolled his eyes. 

"Fine I'll do it my damned self, meanie." James sassed and River smiled, nudging James as he passed him. Careful not to step into the paint, that would have surely stuck to his feet for days. 

"Where's Cassie?" River asked, noticing that James' character of a Girlfriend wasn't around. "She's usually strolling around half dressed, speaking crazy and screaming at you." River grinned at James. 

"Watch it, Mr. I can't get a Boyfriend because I'm too busy with my Business Degree." James mocked in a freakishly squeaky voice, and River frowned at the inaccuracy of it. 

"Hey, I don't sound like that! And I sure as hell don't have time to be coddled and fondled by a man." River challenged, but James simply scoffed. 

"And I presume fondling yourself while you think I'm sleeping is better?" James grimaced at River, who's cheeks tinted in abysmal embarrassment. 

"Dammit those old, squeaky ass beds," River cursed under his breath. James only smirked at River's rant, but he instantly realized he was allowing the paint to dry. 

"At least you're man enough to admit it," James gibed, roaming through drawers for something to clean the mess with. 

"Shut your Pie-hole, and clean that paint up, Mr. Bordeaux." River retorted, throwing the empty, water bottle at James' head. 

"You bloody wanker!" James screamed as River sped-walked away. 

River loved the banter between him and James. It was the one thing he looked forward to, after a long day of rude customers and a nagging Boss. He however felt the urge to tell James that he had been fired, but he also hoped that the high paying internship that he had been contacted about, would be granted before he had to. 

It had been days since he submitted his resume. He thought of it almost every hour, which led to him being distracted. It also roused up a sudden confidence in him. A confidence that made River talk back at his Boss, Mr. Bash. Who then proceeded to fire him. He thought if only he had kept his mouth shut--then again. River was tired of being spat on, walked over and screamed at by a man whom was much shorter than him. A man who in James's most colorful opinion, was an Arsemonger.

•

River entered the cramped interior of his Bedroom. A rectangular space, with mismatched wooden, metal, and plastic furniture. He hurriedly stepping out of his Denims, grimacing at the sudden coldness--seeping through his pores. Caused by the stone floor, that was the same bland, cream color as the papered walls. Murky and as boring as River thought himself. A trait he hated, yet lived with because of his past. 

He discarded the Blue Denims atop his bed, yawning and covering his mouth. 

River huffed heavily as he fell backwards into the Bed--in his boxers and an old but favored Band Shirt. Frowning as the loud squeaking resonated throughout the entire Bedroom. He gazed up at the lightbulb in the ceiling, his facial expression neutral. 

He quickly fished his phone from his left pocket. Sliding the cracked screen across, hoping to find something interesting. He then decided to check his emails, a small twinge of hope, inspiriting within him. That hope burst into nauseating nervousness, as he saw the brand new email in his inbox. 

Titled; Black and Co. Application. 

He swiftly flew up, in a sitting position. His heart palpitating so loud, he could hear it beating as if within his eardrums. With a fidgeting thumb, he opened the email. But his mobile data seemed to be slowed down, as it usually did when his megabytes ran dry. 

So he waited ten seconds, but nothing. 

Another ten seconds, then his patience ran dry--yet still there was nothing. 

He opted to wait another ten, but he gave up after just three seconds, the moment he remembered his Laptop. The only thing in the Apartment, that was connected to the Neighbor's Wifi. 

"Crappy phone!" River cursed under his breath, dropping the cellphone on the Bed. 

He then rose to his feet, hurriedly striding towards his cluttered Computer Desk. Where his HP laptop sat, halfway opened. He hastily opened it up, narrowing his gaze as the screen lit up. Within seconds, he entered his password and smiled. For the screen was already on the email tab. 

He paused for a second, even more agitated than before. His head felt swollen, and he feared if he water any longer. 

His brain would explode. 

River squeezed his eyes shut, clicking the mouse once. He let out a dry huff of air, slowly opening one eye. 


From: Grace Keller, CFO. Black & Co. 
Received 12:55 pm. 
Subject: Re:Application.

After reading that first line, both of River's eyes opened. Peering at the screen, with squinty yet eager eyes. 

Hello Mr. Kennedi, 

           This reply is in regards to the Internship Application that you have submitted. I have to say I'm quite pleased with your Resume, and I look forward to you attending a scheduled Interview. 


An excited scream erupted from River's lips, but both his hands swiftly covered his mouth to stop himself. River looked around, to see if James was nearby--unable to contain his excitement. He soon squeaked almost inaudibly, continuing the email. 


I have taken the liberty of setting up an interview on the nearest date possible. I hope that you will be able to attend on such short notice. I am aware that you have been recommended, by a well known Professor at Lockwood University here in New York. 

However, I wasn't able to review your Application until earlier today, but it is to my understanding that it had been sent to us a week ago. 

My apologies for the wait, and I sincerely do hope that the chosen date of the Interview is convenient to your daily schedule. 

See below. 

January 21, 2016. 3:00pm. 

Looking forward to meeting you, Mr. Kennedi!

〰

River's eyes widened as he read the date out loud. He was finally rudely interrupted by James--bounding into the Room. A bottle of Jergens Lotion, clutched in his hands--almost defensively. 

"Umm," River grunted and James's frightened expression, changed to one of relief. 

"Thank heavens! I thought someone attacked you!" James said, clutching his chest with genuine concern written in his eyes. 

River however, glanced from James, to the bottle of Lotion in his hands. "So you came to my rescue with a bottle of Lotion." It was more of a statement than a question, and James frowned at the revelation. 

"Uhh, yes?" 

"What were you going to do?" River asked and James's left eyebrow rose in limpid puzzlement. "Moisturize them to death?" River queried, and James's gaze flattened. 

"Has this bloody thing ever been in your eyes?" James asked, walking into the Room. 

"No, it hasn't." River said, sounding a little bit concerned. 

"Oh, well." James dropped the bottle of Lotion on River's bed as he plopped down lazily. "The least you could do is say, 'thank you James, for coming to save me. What a true knight in shining armor you are." James recited, almost too dramatically and River groaned in angst. 

"Thank you James, for coming to my rescue with a bottle of Lotion, obviously almost empty due to your rigorous amounts of masturbation." River mused and James cocked an eyebrow in his direction. "Your beds are squeaky too." River smirked at James's horrified look. "But as you can see, I'm fine. Just excited." 

"That's what that girly scream was?" James asked, befuddled and River face-palmed himself roughly. 

"No, you moron, well, kind of!" River seemed confused, and James seemed even more baffled. "I'm excited because I got the Internship." River deadpanned finally and James scowled. 

"The Black & Co.?" He asked and River glared at him incredulously. 

"No, for Men.com." River muttered, "Yes! For Black & Co., twit!" River snapped and James glared at him, but it soon turned into a broad smile. 

"Now way!" James exclaimed excitedly and River grinned proudly. 

"Yes, way!" 

"I knew you would get it, babe!" James said confidently and River blushed, a big grin on his lips that hurt from smiling a bit too much. 

"The interview's tomorrow!" River said, rising from his seat and sitting down beside James. 

"Uhh, tomorrow, tomorrow?"James's smile faded, worrying River immensely. 

"Yes tomorrow," River answered, his smile fading a little as he saw the look on James's face. "Aren't you excited?" River asked with a pout and James sighed heavily. 

"I am, I am but-," he paused and River frowned marginally. "You have to go see your Mum tomorrow. You know that visits to that God- forsaken place is complicated enough as it is." 

River scowled as he pondered the outcome of not going to see his Mother. 

He considered not going, but the Hospital only allowed visits twice per week in that Ward. So River had a decision to make, and it was enough to down his spirits. 

"Ugh, you're right." River said, falling back on the Bed. 

James followed suit, and they both gazed up at the ceiling. River was lost in thought, and James opted to remain quiet. To give River time to think about his options, and come up with a solution to his problem.

"Do you think she'll wake up?" River asked and James shrugged. "What if she does and I'm not there?" He queried, but James didn't have the answers he sought after. 

"I don't know, babe." James sighed, his worry for his Best Friend, obvious and genuine. "This Internship is a once in a lifetime opportunity. If your Mother does wake up from her Coma, I'm sure she'll understand why you weren't there." James advised and River gritted his teeth, considering James' words deeply. 

"The Interview is at 3:00, and visiting hours starts at 2:30pm." River acknowledged, and James nodded. 

"Go see your Mother, if even for ten minutes then go to your interview. Your Mother lived her life, despite how terribly it turned out. Don't let anything stop you from living yours," James said as he rose from the Bed, nudging River's cheeks in the process. 

"Ok," River pursed his lips, rising up to a sitting position. 

"I'm going to make us some Pasta, and you can tell me all about this new internship." James grinned and River blushed lightly, smiling up at James. 

"Ok," River nodded and James rose an eyebrow at him. "Babe," River let out exasperated, and James pointed a finger at him--clearly pleased. 

River watched in angst as James exited the room--his feet pattering against the floor lightly. He then turned to his Laptop--a slight grimace masking his features. 


〰


Soundtrack - Remember I Told You by Nick Jonas ft. Anne Marie and Mike Posner

Highest Rank | #1 in the LOVEWINS category | Book FOUR of the Color Of Love Series. 

In the pursuit of happiness, River Kennedi inherits a new life through sheer luck, or quite possibly his own potential. His secrets, his vulnerabilities, and the very best of him, is brought out when Sebastian Black walks into his life. Bringing with him, just enough baggage and just enough of the real and genuine him to make his own place in River's heart. 

| CAUTION | - This story contains sexual relations between two MEN. If you aren't a fan of LGBT Stories, then Color Me Black ISN'T for you. 

This book or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without the express written permission of the Publisher, except for the use of brief quotations in a book review.

Copyrighted Material. (Proof of Copyright- https://static.copyrighted.com/images/seal.gif )

The next morning, after having a slow hot bath, Hidayah proceed to Eco World Development office at their ECO Sky building. With her sleeveless Prada Tulle dress that accentuates her full-figure even though it is somewhat a loose fitting dress, and Jimmy Choo's Romy 85 lace pumps, she looked like she was rocking the runway, but her serious countenance and confidence aura, it gave her an elegant semblance. 


"Hi, I have a meeting with Mr Liew Yuxiong, I'm Ms Loh from ARK Corporation." She informed the receptionist. 


"Ms Loh, please wait while I inform Mr Liew's office. We will be with you shortly." The man manning the desk advised Hidayah. She then walked towards the sitting area and took a sit. After waiting for less than 3 minutes, a lady appeared and ushered Hidayah towards the lobby and up the lift. 


"I didn't expect Ms Loh to come in person for this meeting!" The man said to her after she entered the designated meeting room. "Welcome to Eco World, I hope you did not wait long." The man forwarded his hand towards Hidayah and she shook his hand in response. 


"No worries, I did not wait long at all, Mr Liew. Plus, it's a pleasure to be here today." The ends of her lips curled up in a professional way. To be honest, her head was pounding hard and her vision was blurring. However, Erika was on leave and she could not ask her to accompany her to City K to replace Anston. Furthermore, the collaboration is just too important as it will be either a make or break deal for ARK Corporation to enter City K's real estate market. 


"I have read through the proposal and we love it. However, Ms Loh, there are some concerns we had highlighted in the email which we have not heard back from," the man sitting opposite her said. 


Hidayah nodded her head and straightened her posture, "Yes, I am fully aware of the concerns that were highlighted and we sincerely apologise for not giving an explanation via email. However, I strongly believe that an email would not be sufficient for us to have a good discussion. Hence, this appoint." 


In the room, the heated but smooth discussion continued for about 2 hours before they had come into a middle ground on the collaboration. 


"How long will you be staying in City K, Ms Loh?" 


"I'll be here till next Thursday. If possible, I would love to tour the city and have a better view of the land that was proposed. 


"I see. Well, we will discuss the matter and will get back to you within 48 hours. I have a good feeling about this, Ms Loh"


"Thank you, Mr Liew. ARK Corporation really hoped Eco World would be our partner in this groundbreaking project in City K. Once again, thank you for agreeing on this meetup and also your time," with that, they shook hands and Hidayah was preparing to leave. 


"If you do not have any lunch arrangement, would you like to join me?" Mr Liew halted her advance and asked. 


"I'm sorry, regrettably, I do have an arrangement which I need to attend to. Perhaps another day while I am still here?" 


"Oh, no worries. I do understand. It's been a pleasure meeting you today. Hope you have a great time in City K, Ms Loh. 


"Thank you, Mr Liew," with that, Hidayah slowly made her move and walked out of the room. Pearls of perspiration started to form and drizzled down her forehead. All she wants now was just to quickly took a cab back to the hotel and sleep to lessen her migraine.

Hidayah Loh is the heiress of the ARK Empire and next in line to be the Matriarch of Country C’s strongest founding family. Basically a royal of Country C. On her business trip in City K of Country M, she was nearly raped by a stranger when Nazreen rescued her.  

Nazreen, a prince from Country E was on holiday and happened to hear a struggled plea for help from the adjacent hotel room when he was returning back to his room. 

But to their dismay, City K’s Islamic Religious Department happened to be in the middle of carrying their night raids in that hotel. 

Both Hidayah and Nazreen was brought to the station and to avoid imprisonment and other negative implications that may affect their reputation, they were forced to marry that very night.

Not keen on keeping the marriage to a total stranger, despite him being her rescuer, Hidayah returned to Country C quietly the next day. Leaving Nazreen with a signed post-dated divorce document at the hotel reception. 

After being forced to marry the woman he saved, he tasked his men to investigate Hidayah. Unfortunately, the next morning, he found that Hidayah had checked out from the hotel and had left him with a divorce agreement. 

What is he to do? Should he just process the divorce as per Hidayah’s request? Or should he find her to ‘save’ their ‘unexpected’ marriage? 

*********************************

Author’s note (A/N): The story is written with people from different ethnic, cultural and religious beliefs. The main leads are built with Islamic beliefs as explained later in the story.

You will also get to read about real places and a mix of fictional and real people. Real art pieces and fashion.

"Good evening, Ladies and Gentlemen." The principal began his speech. 
"I believe most of you knew that Mrs. Yvory Smith-Gray had recently taken the entrance examination at our school as her preparation for taking over her late father's empire in the future. Yesterday, we have sent the letters to the rest of the applicants. "
The principal's words made Yve more nervous than ever. Now that the wedding was a success, the only thing she's been wishing for is to pass the entrance examination. She looked up to her husband only to see a calm Vince. Somehow, this gives her the courage and will to act the same way.
"As per Mr. Gray's request, the letter was sent to his office yesterday. However, he called me to ask if it would be possible to announce the result myself."
"Why would you do that?" Yve whispered to him and slightly tapped his chest.
The other caught her hand and pressed it between his hand and chest before answering her question, "Trust me on this one."
"There is another reason for couples out there to envy Mr. and Mrs. Gray. In main branch back in Australia, Mr. Gray holds the record of passing the exam with the highest score which was one mistake. However, today..."
The principal paused and looked at the people's tensed faces before staying his gaze to the loving couple.
"Mrs. Gray broke the record with a perfect score!"
His announcement was happily received not only by the couple but by the people around. Yve's tears flowed once more and jumped at her husband in happiness. Vince was alert enough to hugged her back and hold her in his arms. She looks like a koala once more. Yve didn't seem to notice that they were in public. The guests smiled at her cuteness and was purely happy for her. This announcement has piqued the interest of the invited businessmen.
'This shows she has what it takes.'
'It's not an easy feat to ace the exam of St. Michael.'
"With Mr. Gray helping her, it's quite possible. How I wish I can hire Mr. Gray as my tutor, too."
"You can't afford him."
"He's not even for hire."
"Let's give a toast to my wife for passing the entrance examination with flying colors." Vince as he handed a glass of champagne to his wife while the other hand raises his glass. The rest of the people followed him and shouted, "CHEERS!".
It was indeed a joyous occasion and the guests enjoy the roller coaster turn of events. As the event comes to an end, the couple decided to approach the principal. 
"I formally welcome you to St. Michael's, Yvory." The principal said and initiated a handshake.
"Please call me Yve, sir."
"Will that be okay?" He asked while smirking at his former student.
"Of course. I don't think my husband is petty enough to be jealous of his mentor." Yve replied and Vince was at a loss for words.
"You really have a way with your words. Let's nurture that natural weapon of yours."
The principal was indeed happy with the results. 
"I'm sorry to destroy our honeymoon plans but you have to give a speech at the press conference tomorrow afternoon."
"What? Tomorrow afternoon?" Yve exclaimed.
"Which is why we gave the letters earlier but then your husband...."
"It's fine. I'll do the best I can. Thank you very much." Yve promised.
Then the couple bid farewell to some of the other important guests when finally it's time to greet the media. 
"Thank you for coming to the event. " Yve said.
"No need. We should thank you for this exclusive chance."
"We're looking forward for a positive and great news in the coming days then." Vince told them.
"Of course, Mr. and Mrs. Gray. By the way, we would like to ask for an exclusive interview with you if that's fine."
"But we still...." Vince was about to reject the idea when Yve stopped her.
"If you don't mind, can we schedule the exclusive interview tomorrow evening? Around after the school's press conference? I will ask our secretaries to inform you of the time."
"Of course. Thank you very much. Congratulations!" The media exclaimed before leaving the ballroom.
Vince looked at his obviously tired wife and said,
"You could actually reject the interview, you know."
"It's part of the deal. If not only I need to make a speech for tomorrow's conference, I would still be able to do it." Yve explained.
"What?! Then how much energy will be remained in you to do our exercise?" Vince whispered a little louder in her ear.
"Exercise? What kind of exercise are you planning to do at night?" Yve asked.
"I'm referring to the thing that's bound to happen after the wedding….."
"VINCE!!!" Yve pushed Vince strong enough for the latter to stumble at the table behind him.
Maddie and the rest of Team Alpha with Edward and Nyelle turned their head to them. Maddie approached them as the rest let them be and returned to their respective posts.
"My dear son, please don't tease your wife so much. Please remember that she still has a speech tomorrow." 
"Mom! Don't tell me you don't want any grandchild any time soon!" Vince said in frustration to defend himself.
"Of course, I want to! But you also have to remember that being husband and wife doesn't give you the right to satisfy your needs alone. It has to be mutual." Maddie lectured her son.
This discussion was too much for Yve to take so with all her might, she runs to the elevator and presses the number of their floor. Maddie gestured for her son to follow his wife upstairs. Vince looked at Team Alpha and they nodded their head in acknowledgement. With this confirmation from his team, he ran after his wife just in time for the elevator doors to close. At first he thought, it would be better to let her calm down and waiting for the next elevator will do just that. However, he began to remember that his wife has the tendency to overthink so he hurried to his private elevator and activated it with hopes to reach the room faster.
'I must not let this memorable day gone to waste.' He thought as the door of his private elevator opened.


Today is another busy day for me. Work and home are the only places I go to for the past 3 years. The end of THAT relationship ended my happy, easy-going life. But then, when I think about it, it was not his fault but mine. My friends would tell me that I need to move on. I HAVE MOVED ON. It's just I don't want any side trips anymore in my life. I have my dreams and I am working hard for it. Little did I know what the destiny has installed for me.

"Mom, I still love her. She ended the relationship without any valid reason and I didn't agree."

"But son, what if the reason is that she doesn't love you anymore? Isn't that a reason valid enough for you?"

"I have to know it this time, mom. I did try to go out on dates but still failed. I think meeting her again will help me know what is happening with me."

"I guess I have no other choice. But remember, don't let her disrupt your plans and the family's business."

"I know, mom. Steph, book my flight to the Philippines tomorrow."

"Vincent! Why are you in so much rush?!"

"Because I believe that the early bird gets the worm."



Just wait for me, Yve. I will get you back by hook or by crook.

Next day 8 am., Daiyu got ready as she had to go for a interview and messaged Shu to meet her near the Darra cafe.
Shu met her at the cafe, and they talked for an hour, after she gave Daiyu their  business card which Daiyu kept in her purse without having a look at it as she was in a hurry to go for her interview. 

I am sorry but now I have to take a leave I have to go to a interview, said Daiyu. And yeah if we'll meet next time than I'll be the one in charge of the bill, okay. Bye!

Okay we'll see, and I enjoyed this little date, Shu replied.

(At the office where Daiyu had the interview)

While I was waiting outside the cabin, a woman came rushing towards the receptionist where she asked her about her name in the interview list, but the receptionist informed her that her name has been stroked out because she was an hour late, than that woman called someone on her phone; Hello Mrs. Richard its Ellie here, will you please be there in the hospital with my son I'll be late, as I am searching for a job.

(After keeping the phone);

Excuse me mam can't you do anything about it?she asked the receptionist in a worried tone.

Sorry to say but I can't help you, only if someone from the girls who came for the interview wants to switch the names with  you than it is possible, thanI can change yours name to hers name, but that girl will lose this interview, she replied. 

Oh my God, why would anyone give away their place for this job! Now what am I supposed to do how will I manage to get a job for a single mother like me ? she murmured.

Daiyu did heard what that women murmered even though she didn't heard the whole thing she heard "single mother",  at that time she zoned out into her past where her mom was also struggling the same to get a job, she than realized that her problem is not as big as the woman, she then went near the reception area and talked with the women;

 Excuse me, I am Daiyu and you...
Ellie, the woman replied 

I am really sorry but I overheard the conversation between you and the receptionist, and I am willing switch my name with yours, you can take my place, Daiyu said.

Huh, thank you so much, but can why don't you need the job, you must also need this job right since you were waiting here? she asked Daiyu.

I do, but from what I am seeing you need it more than I need it, and also because I can relate to your situation with  someone who is very precious to me, who faced the same struggles as you, anyway now don't be late, go do your best, it's my turn...I mean its  yours turn.

While Daiyu was about to leave Ellie called her from behind, 

Wait, Miss Daiyu will you wait until I finish my interview ??? I want to talk to you. 

Hmm ofcourse I'll, it's just a matter of  minutes, replied Daiyu.

Ok wait over here I am coming, Ellie smiled.

Best of Luck, Daiyu shouted from behind.

10 minutes later,
Ellie came running from the office towards Daiyu and hugged her, yeah Daiyu I got the job thanks to you.

Good I am happy for you, said Daiyu.

The reason I asked you to wait is I have to give you something, you see today I had asked someone to see job vacancies. Let me call and asked her if she got any information about it (after the call). 

Hey, Daiyu are you up to give an interview???,Ellie asked.

Yes ofcourse, 

Give me your number I am sending you the details. The interview starts in an hour  that is 12 pm and now is 11.am.

oh okay I'll take a leave than, thank you, Ellie.

Hmm..Bye and yeah Good luck.

Half an hour later at Yangs Group., 

Daiyu's POV,

 I was now standing below a humongous company which said Yang Group in bold silver letters. After showing the the interview appointment picture on my phone, I was allowed to enter, all the interns I saw all were dressed in famous designer brands, and suddenly all were looking at my direction (Author: all were looking at her because she looked like a model but was dressed simply in all black , black hoody, black ripped jeans and black boots which were not "branded"), I ignored the gazes, than proceeded towards the reception to ask about where the interview is taking place, but after I said that sentence, the workers and interns who were gazing at me till now suddenly started gossiping while looking at me.

At that point of time I was getting angry at the companies staff's behaviour.

Excuse me I asked you something, would you tell me??, I asked the receptionist angrily, because even she was looking at me weirdly.

8th floor, asked for Boss Liu Gen's cabin as he taking the interviews of  all the interviewees today, she replied.

okay, said Daiyu 

(Huang Meixiu than entered, and blocked Daiyu's way and she started bullying  Daiyu)

Who are you I think you got the wrong address??? Hahaha...don't tell me she is here for a designers interview, that Gen is conducting.I am sorry but have you looked at your dressing sense, what are you wearing, I mean it looks like we are conducting an interviews to hire bodyguard she touched her clothes...Ahhhh

Daiyu than stared at her, and twisted her hand,while holding Meixiu in that position only she said,

Yes, I am here for a designers interview  but thank you to inform me that this company needs a bodyguard and you know what I will be happy to do that job too. And I do know my dressing sense and I am cool about it, so you don't have to worry about me , Daiyu said in a angry tone.

Leave me, and why the hell will I worry about you?, Meixiu said.

Daiyu than leaved her hand.

But just look at you, you are standing inside the "Yang Group" wearing your cheap piece of cloth, she again touched  Daiyu clothes while saying this, you are destroying our company status by this shit and also my Hai's reputation.

At that time Daiyu lost all her patience towards Meixiu, when she again touched her clothes provoking her.

Daiyu insulted her, jerking off
Meixiu hands forcefully from her clothes, she said;

First of all, do not touch me and secondly you should mind your own damn business instead of poking your botox nose in others business, and before giving your advice to others go and wear something  informal suitable for working and not as if you are going for a party, You get it, and that's my return advice for you take it I won't charge for it. And what I am wearing is completely suitable for this job and it should concern the reputation of the company and about Hai, whoever he is I am not interested to know about him. 

You...who the hell do you think you are talking to me 'The famous Huang Meixiu" like this? 

Aiya... I think I forget to introduce myself I am Daiyu, the one who showed you the mirror, Daiyu replied sarcastically by winking at her.
And yeah this was the first and the last time you have messed with me you get it?, she said warning her.

The others workers started laughing and smiling at Meixiu 

And you all the show is over, Daiyu said to all the workers.

Ahh...Meixiu stomped her feet, that bitch  wait and watch you messed with the wrong girl, she gritted her teeth and exited the building angrily. 

(At this point, unknowingly Daiyu made more fans because Meixiu has got on the nerves on every working interns at the Yang company, and no one dared to stopped her frpm bullying others because her father has invested in Yang company on a new project, but Daiyu did it ( that's why when Daiyu entered the building all were worried about her and started gossiping)

20 years old Daiyu never interested in love, hated the word 'LOVE' except the one she has for her mother. She is in search for a second part-time job in order to complete  her fashion designer course and to help her mother. Until one night she gets involved in a seen where she encounters the two men Liu Longwei and Yang Hai. Where both of them turns her life upside down...



DISCLAIMER: The cover of the novel has been taken from the source Pinterest the owner of the picture is unknown to me and I have edited it a little bit.The credit for the cover picture without doubt goes to its owner if I get to know his/her name than I'll sure put it up with his/her permission :) This story is an original work so all reviews are appreciated. This is my first time writing a story so the rate of updates will be 4 to 5 chapters in a week.
Thank you for choosing my story !! Keep supporting :) !!

Prime Minister Dou was still holding his landline as He Zhichu's voice seemed to still be echoing in his ears. However he froze when his youngest daughter mentioned, "Professor He" and asked, "What did you say? What Professor He? What reference letters?"
"The famous lawyer from America! He has his own private jet that can fly across the oceans, the Lawyer He Zhichu who brought my sister back here! He's also a law professor at B University!" Dou Aiyan recited He Zhichu's identity in one breath--it was a long and impressive resume.
Realization dawned on Prime Minister Dou, "He's hiring a teaching assistant? Doesn't the school assign one to him?"
"Most professors have theirs assigned, but Professor He is completely different? Would the university dare refuse if he wants to choose his own?" Dou Aiyan pouted and twirled around to sit cross legged on the sofa in the corner of Prime Minister Dou's study. She propped her chin up with one hand, a pure naivety on her fair and youthful face. Prime Minister Dou was already successful by the time she wasa born, so she was truly raised in wealth and doting care. Thus she was more bold, carefree and capricious than her older sister. There has never been anything she desired but couldn't get.
Prime Minister Dou considered it and didn't think it was a big deal--he had a personal connection with He Zhichu anyway so it was ideal if they could even link their families one day…"I see, but have you ever worked as a teaching assistant? You're just in your first year of university, can you be a teaching assistant for post-grad masters students?" Prime Minister Dou looked at his daughter, "Do you meet all the qualifications?"
"How would I not qualify?" Dou Aiyan took her phone out with a glare to open the Faculty of Law app and the popular recruitment post pushed to her notifications, "Dad, look. It's very simple, I just need to submit three reference letters after applying, go through the first round of selections, pass the qualifying exam, challenge the top three performing students in an interview and become the only one admitted."
"It's that complicated?" Prime Minister Dou frowned, "This is even more complex than hiring for my Prime Minister's office."
"Dad, how can you say that? How can the staff at your office begin to compare with becoming Professor He's teaching assistant?" Dou Aiyan shook her head with dissatisfaction, her hair flying around like waves, "Do you know all your staff? No, right? There's only a few who know their leader, but with Professor He's teaching assistant it's totally different. There's only one position and I can see him everyday…" She couldn't help expressing a dreamy look on her face as she stroked her cheek to murmur, "I'd be willing to shorten my life by ten years if I can be with Professor He everyday…"
Prime Minister Dou watched his daughter's lovestruck look with a smile as he shook his head, "Aiyan, do you think you're chasing your idol here? Professor He is not an idol, he's the most successful businessman and lawyer--this isn't someone a girl barely 20 like you can handle. If you're just wanting to become his teaching assistant so you can see him, I think you'd better give up."
"Dad–!" Dou Aiyan jumped up from the sofa to stamp her feet and drawled coyly, "I don't care, I don't care, I don't care! I want it, I want it!"
Prime Minister was helpless when it came to his daughter and loved her the most. Without careful consideration he knew this wasn't a big problem, he might just have to talk to He Zhichu about it at the very most. He couldn't very well help his niece but refuse his own daughter? Prime Minister Dou finally nodded, "Ok, then if Professor He really hires you as a teaching assistant, you must work hard for him,. You can't be lazy, play tricks or act coy, do you hear me?"
Dou Aiyan jumped up happily right away and lunged over to hg her father. She kissed his cheek with a loud smack, "Dad's the best! I like Dad the most!"
Watching Dou Aiyan dash out cheerfully, Prime Minister Dou smiled kindly and picked up his phone to ask his staff to help his daughter write a reference letter, then also asked the Ministry of Education and the dean of B University for the other two. Soon after, He Zhichu received an email along with the scanned reference letters.
…
Gu Nianzhi had been contemplating where to get her reference letters ever since she applied. Apart from Huo Shaoheng, the only people she knew were her her classmates from undergraduate studies. The easiest solution was to have Huo Shaoheng provide three reference letters, but his position meant he couldn't do such things so he could only ask others to write them for her. That meant she would have it easy, but it gave Huo Shaoheng more work. So she crossed a line through the first requirement and thought of a second plan. That only left her university roommates, which happened to be three people. Gu Nianzhi unlocked her phone to call Little Temptress first.
"Hmm? Nianzhi, what do I owe the honor of your call today?" Little Temptress' voice sounded especially alluring over the phone, and there also seemed to be the faint sound of music in the background.
Gu Nianzhi laughed, "Little Temptress, you're really enjoying life over there. What little tune are you listening to?"
"What little tune? Hmph! Those are classic guzheng songs, 'Tall Mountains, Flowing Water' and 'Sunny Spring and White Snow,' got it? Guzheng!" Little Temptress jumped to her feet on the other end of the line, making Gu Nianzhi fall onto the bed and hold her stomach laughing. After joking around with each other for a while, Gu Nianzhi finally spoke about the reference letters.
Little Temptress agreed right away but asked curiously, "Why do you want your classmates to write reference letters for you? Don't people typically asked elders or esteemed people in society? What about your guardian?"
Gu Nianzhi replied earnestly, "I only know you guys so of course I'd ask you to write the reference letters for me. As for my guardian, he probably won't help me with such a thing." It wasn't that Huo Shaoheng didn't care about her, but because he didn't leave traces in the outside world due to the nature of his job. If his handwriting fell into the hands of others, the consequences would be dire. Gu Nianzhi understood, and even if Huo Shaoheng agreed to help he was only asking someone else to do it. If that's the case, she might as well find help herself.
Little Temptress' eyes were wet with tears when Gu Nianzi finished explaining. She forced herself to stay calm and nodded gravely, "No problem, Nianzhi. Do you want me to ask Green Tea Fang and Lady Cao fo you?"
"That's ok, it's only sincere if I ask them myself." Gu Nianzhi chatted with Little Temptress some more before hanging up and calling the other two roommates. The two other girls also agreed right away and also asked if she wanted them to have elites from society to help write the letters. Green Tea Fang said she had a distant relative who was a partner in a major law form in C City. Although he wasn't as famous as He Zhichu, he was also considered part of the legal elite within the Huaxia Empire. Gu Nianzhi thought about it but still decided not to accept, "Green Tea Fang, you don't need to trouble yourself with that. I think reference letters are only meaningful when they're written by people who know you. Although society elites are impressive, the letter would be awkward to read if they don't actually know me."
Green Tea Fang was amused by her and started to giggle, "Nianzhi, you're still sharp tongued as ever. Fine, we'll wait for your good news and see what kind of teaching assistant Professor He recruits. You have to try your best!"
Gu Nianzhi agreed earnestly before ending the call. The three reference letters were settled so at she didn't need to worry for now. As for the exam that followed the first round of elimination, Gu Nianzhi was never concerned about its difficulty. From a certain perspective, exams were fair to everyone as long as nobody cheated.. Carrying a glass of milk out of her room, Gu Nianzhi planned to watch a bit of TV on the couch when Ma Qiqi threw the door open and said gloomily, "Nianzhi, I'm afraid we're out of luck this time."
"What is it?" Gu Nianzhi's heart trembled , she just took care of her reference letters and didn't even send them out yet. How could they be out of luck?
"I heard there's a young female undergraduate student in our Faculty who got reference letters from the Prime Minister, Minister of Education and also our dean." Ma Qiqi waved her arms fiercely, "Tell me, who could compete against a background like that?"
"Is that so…" Gu Nianzhi laughed. She slumped her head against the sofa to consider it it, then consoled Ma Qiqi, "Qiqi, I don't think Professor He is that kind of a person. You don't need to feel so pessimistic."
"It's not that I'm pessimistic, it just means that girl has the determination to win no matter what!" Ma Qiqi explained to Gu Nianzhi with exasperation, "This is what what happened when the competition that has a better background, is smarter, prettier and works harder than you! --A person like this was born to be envied and hated by others, right?"


Gu Nianzhi had no idea how to get the aloof and handsome Major General to fall in love with her. 

His eyes were dark and serious. "...Seduce me. If you can do it, I’m yours." 

Gu Nianzhi: "!!!"

Disclaimer: The following stories contains sexual assault, rape, nonconsensual acts, mentally abusive relationships, and violence towards women. Readers are advised to proceed with caution.

+++
Sylvester dropped the landline receiver after speaking
with Agent Dakolo, he sat back into his seat, trying to
decide whether to attend to the Agent's request first or to
follow after Henry. He chose the latter and got up from
his seat. He picked up his phone from the table and
proceeded out of the office.
Two minutes later, he was seated in the visitor's seat
behind Henry's table. Henry wasn't paying much
attention to him but was focused on his work on the
laptop.
'Here's what I wanted to show you' Henry quickly handed
a paper to Sylvester and turned back to his laptop. 'How
was the interview? What position did she apply for?'
Henry asked.
'There was no interview' Sylvester answered without
taking a look at the paper he was handed. 'She only came
to submit her credentials in person'
'I see' Henry said in a low voice, acting less interested.
'You thought I invited her over for an interview?'
'Yes, of course. You are the Boss here and you don't need
my permission to interview anybody' Henry answered
with a slight chuckle.
'But we already agreed to work with those available and
not to take in anyone else for now. I wouldn't go against
our agreement'
Henry paused and looked up, he fastened his eyes on
Sylvester's face. 'I didn't suggest that in anyway' He said
and turned his face back to the laptop. 'Oh! You thought
that was the reason I didn't agree to see her?'
'What else could be the reason?'
'I wasn't aware of the interview before, neither do I know
the position the interview is for so I didn't think I had any
business to do with her' Henry answered, keeping a light
smile on his face.
Sylvester remained quiet for a while, staring at Henry's
face. He had thought Henry was angry but Henry's
demeanor and words have proved him wrong.
'So what do you …' Henry paused on seeing that Sylvester
had not checked the paper given to him. 'Come on, read
what's there'
Sylvester picked the paper and scanned briefly through
it. 'When did you start working on this?'
'It wasn't my work, Dayo did it' Henry replied. Dayo was
the new employee that was taken in the week before.
'It looks good but we have to find how crackable these
codes are' Sylvester commented.
'That's why I was in your office then, I wanted to check
through your history log but I've been able to check it
from here'
'So, are they crackable?'
'Yes, it's even made up of very easy combinations'
'Does that make it usable or not?'
'It's not usable. It would be easily cracked by the
opposition'
Sylvester folded the paper and dropped it on the table.
'Agent Dakolo called some minutes ago, he'll be here in
the afternoon to get a report on all that we've been doing
concerning the breach we've been experiencing'
'Okay, I've been expecting him to ask for it. I prepared a
report already and he doesn't even need to come here,
we could mail it to him' Henry said.
'I think he'll also like to get some explanations, that's why
he wants to come physically' Sylvester put in.
'No problem, we'll be ready for him'
'So what do we do now with Mr Dayo's piece?' Sylvester
asked as he got up from the chair, ready to leave for his
office.
'We'll just keep it and keep working, we need something
deeper' Henry tapped the enter key on her laptop
keyboard in a loud manner and then relaxed into his
seat, signifying that he was through with what he was
doing. He stared up at Sylvester's face. 'You know we are
trying to entrap this group, so we have to be wiser than
they are. We cannot afford to use simple keys and scripts
in tackling them, that'll be making mockery of ourselves'
'Alright then' Sylvester shrugged and turned to leave.
~~~
**Kabakawa, Batagarawa Katsina, Katsina State. **
After lodging in an hotel for two days, the team finally
moved into the rented apartment for which they had
paid the rent fee for a year. The house wasn't too
expensive but it was big enough to contain all of them. It
was already furnished to their taste before they moved
in.
They had chosen a flat with three bedrooms in the two
storey building house with a total of six flats. Theirs was
located by the left side on the middle floor. Tarasha had
carefully chosen an apartment for them in an open area
this time, it would reduce the rate of unnecessary
suspicions. But they also had to be extra careful and
watchful.
It was Monday morning and work had begun already.
Cole was seated behind a table, composing an email on
his laptop to inform the Ata's foundation of their team's
arrival into the country. Benny was in one of the rooms
where he and Cole had chosen for themselves, arranging
the new arms and ammunitions into the wardrobe. He
neatly arranged the various sizes of bullets and sealed
explosives in a section. He arranged the pistols in another
section and long guns in another. The last section was
used to store his clothes and Cole's.
Aisha was also in her room, setting the place in the order
she wanted. She hissed on seeing the little bag of clothes
which she brought to the place. Although the bag was
actually the biggest bag amongst all bags of clothes the
team had brought, she still thought it to be small. Their
kind of job would not satisfy her desire to always take
her best clothes around town.
She hissed again as she saw herself in the mirror on
bending to arrange the makeup kits placed in front of the
mirror. What did she even need the clothes for now that
her hair was gone? She looked like a man, she thought.
She gave a brief mockery laugh at herself as she rubbed
her palms on the head. She then turned back to pick a
small case which contained more makeup kits. That
wasn't for her but for the team, the team would
frequently need to change their appearances on this
operation. Another small bag was lying beside the case, it
contained camouflage materials like artificial beards,
masks, wigs and even skinlike gloves.
Benny walked into the living room after he was done with
arranging the tools, he met Cole already closing his
laptop.
'Have you finished typing the email?' He asked as he
moved to sit on the couch.
'Yes, we'll see it when we come back from the boutique'
Cole answered, standing up with his closed laptop in his
hand.
'You want us to go now?' Benny seemed not too
comfortable with the idea.
'Yes, what else should we do now?'
'Why don't you send the email now and let's see their
reply, they may probably engage you in a chat' Benny
tried to convince Cole.
'I've sent the mail to the Boss first for vetting, until she
replies us we cannot forward it to the foundation' Cole
responded with a wry look on his face. 'Dust your lazy a-s
and let's go out to get the clothes now. I'll go get Aisha.'
With that Cole walked away, leaving Benny who remained
on the seat tiredly. For Benny, it was always fun to get
new clothes but this one was different, the clothes would
have to be disposed off at the end of the operation.
~~~
**Abuja**
2pm
'You went this far?' Dakolo stared Henry in the face as he
read the report provided to him. 'Even the US CCTV
officials have not discovered up to this, nice job' he
commended cheerfully jamming his palms together.
'Thank you sir' Henry smiled.
'The only thing that looks similar in this their report is…'
Dakolo began but stopped abruptly. He bent to bring out
the report from the US CCTV from his small brief case
which was placed by the leg of the chair he was seated.
He placed the binded four pages report on Henry's table.
Sylvester was the first to pick up the report and open it.
Dakolo opened back Henry's report which was still in his
hands. He began to flip the pages until he got to the last.
'Here' he said, pointing a particular area on the page.
'This code looks similar to theirs'
Henry bent forward to look at where Dakolo was
pointing. Dakolo handed it over to him to have a better
view.
" BN 10354
' Encrypt XL
<< — t.a.r– n.e.f — >>
Run script = enter '
>>"
That was one of the most mysterious encryption code
Henry had ever come across. He had never seen the key
words anywhere else before and since he discovered the
script, he not been able to decrypt it.
Dakolo collected the report Sylvester was holding and
opened to the second page. 'Here ' he pointed another
area to for Henry to look at. The encryption script Henry
saw in the US report was similar to the one in his report.
"BN 20679
'Encrypt XL
<< — s.e.r— n.e.f — >>
Run script = enter '
>>"
'What??' Henry's lips vibrated as he fixed his eyes on the
code, looking slightly baffled. He took his eyes off to
Dakolo face. 'The assassin group is larger than we
thought, it's a worldwide organization'
Dakolo licked his lips slowly and silently as he watched
Henry fix his eyes again to the report.
'Can I…' Sylvester who was anxious to see the correlation
stretched forth his hand impatiently to collect the
reports from Henry.
'So now that we know that we are dealing with a
worldwide assassin group, we have to up our game'
Dakolo finally spoke. 'Your engineers have to be
informed about what they are dealing with. And I think
the corporation has to establish a strong connection with
the US corporation'
'Wow! I wasn't aware that there have been breaches in
the CCTV operations in the US too' Henry spoke in low
tones, relaxing his back in the seat.
'There have been' Dakolo replied him, tapping a finger on
the table as he stared into the air and inhaled. 'The breaks
always comes during the period of assassinations just like
ours'
'Hmm… Same strategies, same codes' Henry said
thoughtfully.
Dakolo stared at Henry's face for a moment. 'Henry E.G, I
need to ask you some questions' Dakolo stated after a
brief moment of silence.
Henry sat upright and adjusted himself to pay attention,
surprised at the Agent's sudden change of tone. 'What
questions sir?'
'You were kidnapped recently' Dakolo paused and stared
at Henry's face, noticing a change. It was obvious to him
that Henry wasn't comfortable with the new subject.
'Yes sir' Henry confirmed reluctantly.
'It happened after you got a job from the late Chief Jubril
Lawal?' Dakolo continued, making sure he maintained
eye contact with Henry. Henry noticed this and decided
to try as much as possible to hide his expressions, else
the Agent would extract every information from him
even if he tried to lie.
'Yes, I don't know if the job was for Chief Jubril but it was
brought to us by one of his workers' Henry answered.
'Chief Jubril sent him' Sylvester quickly put in.
Dakolo took a glance at Sylvester and fixed his eyes back
to Henry's face. 'Let's talk about your abduction first. It
lasted for less than a day. How did you escape?'
'I was told that they left us to go after they had a
disagreement amongst themselves' Henry replied.
'You were told?'
'Yes, I was knocked out. I only opened my eyes after
we've moved far away from there'
'You and your girlfriend?'
'No, but a very close lady friend'
'Well, I don't need to go into details of how you were
abducted that day. I know that you have been questioned
about that already.' Dakolo adjusted to a more
comfortable seating position and placed his chin on his
right fist. 'You mentioned during your interrogation with
the police that your suspect was Dare, Chief Jubril's son?'
'Yes' Henry confirmed with a nod.
'But you didn't mention to me that you've seen him
recently' Dakolo frowned.
'Sir, we've not really been able to discuss personal
matters since you came into town'
'That's true.' Dakolo paused and turned to Sylvester who
was already clearing his throat to announce his desire to
leave since he felt he wasn't concerned with the
questioning.
'Mr Sylvester' Dakolo called with a chuckle. 'You have to
wait, I also have some questions for you too.' Sylvester
nodded in reply and comported himself. Dakolo turned
back to Henry.
'Let's push the personal matters aside for now' Dakolo
continued with Henry. 'Did you ever think that the kidnap
could be related to the job brought by the late Chief's
PA?'
'No' Henry replied sharply after narrowing his eyes
thoughtfully.
'You don't think so?'
'Yes, I don't' Henry shook his head in negative to
emphasize. He thought again briefly. Omotara was the
suspect behind the number he was investigating, so was
it really possible that she had planned their kidnap.
'So you insist that it could have only been Dare Lawal?'
Dakolo pressed. 'Wait' he cut in before Henry could
speak. 'What was the result of your investigation?'
Henry's heartbeat increased thrice in speed. The question
he was scared of have been finally asked. Was he now
going to turn Omotara in? Knowing fully well that Agent
Dakolo would not stop until he fishes out who Alexander
Evelyn really was and probably even associate her with
the Chief's assassination which Henry believed Omotara
was innocent about.

This story is about a Lady Assassin who was
trained in Russia, specially skilled in the art and
carrying out the job with no fears, restraints or
apologies.
She became so powerful and was greatly feared
by several of her male counterparts, including
some of the masters who trained her. She hated
so many things, God was number one on her
hatred list.
She came down to Nigeria and was still involved
in her profession until she met someone who
was willing to help her start a new life.
But people from the past came into her life
bringing back old memories. Then she met her
match, another fierce assassin

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