24
The next day, Nicolai’s entire executive team was flown in. They were paid triple time, with all flights and accommodations cover-
- ed.
After he finished his work, he rushed over to see me.
He brought his legal team with him. They drafted the agreement I had proposed yesterday. I only breathed a sigh of relief after the
final signature was on the page.
I couldn’t describe the feeling. This was what I had always wanted. Now that I had it, now that I had this security, I wasn’t as happy
as I thought I’d be.
Nicolai established a company in my name, hired a professional management team, and personally mentored me. I had dabbled in
writing for a while, so I picked things up quickly.
Chpter 2
2013 W
Nicolai was a little surprised. “Serena, if you had entered the business world sooner, we might have been equals.”
I didn’t comment. Because I thought so too. Or maybe it was just that all my resources came from Payne Industries. It’s always
easier when you’re standing on the shoulders of a giant.
After starting the company, I was very busy. Nicolai watched me with a mixture of anxiety and awe, but when he saw the rare smile
on my face, he relaxed.
“Serena, now that you have your own company, you have the leverage to negotiate with me, with or without me. We are equals. Can
you please consider…”
“Trying to love me.”
Nicolai held a bowl of soup prepared by the nutritionist. This tall, imposing man was slightly bent over, looking at me with such
trepidation and nervousness.
Like he was awaiting my judgment.
didn’t speak.
If this had been when we first got together, I might have casually thrown out an “I love you,” even if I didn’t mean it.
But now, I couldn’t bring myself to be so dismissive.
Finally, I nodded.
“Okay.”
