To Hate My Stepbrother

Mason’s POV

With everything happening around I had no idea how long I could hold on for before snapping because I was already a ticking time bomb.

Sighing, I decided to meet the investor for the meeting we couldn’t conclude the day before because of what had happened with Ava.

“I’m sorry about yesterday,” I apologized and he only nodded in understanding as he smiled, “okay, let’s start.” I finally started as I projected my idea.

After talking for a while, I could tell that he was impressed with the idea I’d pitched, “I’m making a promise to you that you really wouldn’t regret this.” I assured with a smile as I turned to look at him.

“I’m in.” He beamed and I couldn’t help the wide smile that formed across my lips as I felt proud of myself and fulfilled because he’s a difficult man to handle.

“I mean, the shares are juicy and you haven’t disappointed me so far, so, I’m doing this,” he continued, “prepare the papers and have them sent to me so that I can sign.” He added as he extended his hand for a handshake.

“Sure, I’ll prepare everything. Thank you so much.” I responded as I took his hand and soon he was out of the conference room while I made my way to my office.

I sank into my chair as I threw my head back and let out a smile. I was trying to prepare the documents when my phone rang.

Stopping all I was doing, I picked up the call and it was from the bank, “Sir, someone just tried to withdraw the sun of ten million dollars from the company’s account.” She said and my jaw dropped.

Who in the world will try that?

“It’s definitely not from me so please do not authorize it,” I replied at once.

“Also, don’t authorize any transaction if I’m not there physically.” I added immediately before hanging up and I was glad that they called me first because I had no idea why anyone would want the company to go bankrupt.

Sighing, I called the private investor to ask if he’s gotten any lead on who might be pulling all of these stunts and his response came negative.

AVA’S POV

“I hate having to move stuff.” Nicole groaned as she struggled with a box and I only laughed as I offered to help her.

Nicole is moving back to San Francisco and we’re moving her stuff to the car and she’s complained like a bazillion times already.

“Hey, Ava?” I heard a familiar voice call and I turned to see Chad. Happy to see him, I smiled as I walked up to him while he moved away from the group he was walking with.

“Why are you moving?” He asked, “are you traveling?” He added before I could answer his first question and I laughed as I shook my head.

“No actually, I’m still very much around,” I responded amidst laughter, “my friend is actually traveling so I’m just helping her pack.” I explained and I could see his calm face.

“I’ll help you.” He offered and before I could get the chance to protest Chad was already helping us pack things into the car.

I looked in Nicole’s direction and she gave me a look that I recognized really well, it’s the look she gives whenever she needed me to say something about a guy and I only shook my head.

“He’s just a friend.” I whispered as we both joined to help Chad with the rest of the boxes and soon we finished packing. It didn’t take as much time as I thought that it would and it’s all thanks to Chad.

“Thank you.” I smiled as I tried to tuck the hair that was messing with my face at the back of my ear with a smile.

“Don’t sweat it, I’m happy to help,” he smiled, “Also, would you like to have coffee with me?” He asked and I raised an eyebrow.

I really wasn’t expecting any form of invitation.

“N…”

“Yes, she will.” I was about to reject the offer when Nicole immediately agreed on my behalf and I turned to look at her in disbelief.

“I can drive to the airport by myself and when you’re done you can come pick up the car later.” She smiled and since my friend already spilled all of these, I had to agree to the coffee.

Laughing, Chad and I walked to the nearest coffee shop and soon we couldn’t stop talking to each other. I find him interesting and we have a lot of things in common too.

“Most guys I know enjoy soccer.” I laughed and he shrugged before making a face that told me that he hates it and I couldn’t help but laugh.

“I mean, what’s the point of getting attacked for a ball that gets kicked away at the end of the day?” He laughed and I couldn’t agree more.

He told me a lot about his childhood and I also opened up to him. I never thought that I would get this close to someone that I’m only having coffee with for the first time.

“Things are more expensive now that we’re adults.” He laughed as we talked about how a lot of things have changed since we were kids and I nodded as I took a sip of my coffee.

We kept talking and I casually mentioned to him that I worked at Mason’s company, “but I’m on a break for now.” I added and the way his mouth dropped open made me raise an eyebrow.

“There’s no way,” he finally said, his eyes lightening up as he spoke, “I work there too. I’m in the accounting department.” He added and I was so glad that I made a friend.

I had no idea Chad also worked at Mason’s company.

“That’s really nice, I’ll resume soon and we can have lunch together.” I smiled and he agreed. Looking at my wristwatch, I realized that it was time for me to leave.

“I have to go now.” I smiled and Chad walked me home, it was a pleasant walk and I looked forward to meeting him at work soon.Text property © Nôvel(D)ra/ma.Org.