Chapter 26 Human realm
I drove my car into the parking lot of the company, Richard had just gifted me this car few days ago for being his best employee of the month and I was ready to rock it not caring what anyone was going to say about it.
I felt so happy with myself with the things i was slowly achieving as it turned out the clients I was working hard with finally accepted my project so Richard was even more than happy with me as he called me a blessing in disguise to his life.
As I stepped into the company all the employees began to greet me respectful as I was now one of the most important people in the building, everything felt so perfect until I saw something on the billboard of the company’s and also on some employees tab, it was my picture.
Few days ago Richard had told me he needed me to do some photo shoot just in case of any urgency as I had not filled up my application letter, was this what he wanted to use it for? I rushed up to his office almost immediately and without even knocking I stepped in.
I stormed into Richard's office, my heart racing with a mix of confusion and panic. "Richard, what is this?" I pointed at the picture on the company's billboard that prominently featured my face. "Why is my picture up there?"
Richard, always calm and collected, looked up from his desk and smiled at me. "Ah, Melissa! I see you've noticed. It's a surprise, my dear. You are now the face of our new product!"
I couldn't believe what I was hearing. This was not what I had anticipated at all. "Richard, I can't be the face of a product. I never agreed to such a thing."
He leaned back in his chair, his smile faltering slightly. "But Melissa, you've been such an asset to the company. The higher-ups believe you're the perfect representation for our new line. It's a huge honor, my dear."
I took a deep breath, trying to gather my thoughts. I couldn't tell Richard the real reason why I couldn't be the face of his new product. He was my best friend and had been supportive throughout my journey of hiding in the human realm. But I couldn't risk revealing the truth and putting him in danger.
"I appreciate the offer, Richard," I began, my voice steady but my mind racing. "But I'm afraid I can't accept. I have personal reasons that prevent me from being in the public eye."
Richard's brows furrowed in concern. "Melissa, I understand that you value your privacy, but this could be a great opportunity for your career. Think about it."
I sighed, knowing that I couldn't divulge the real reason behind my decision. "Richard, I appreciate your faith in me, but I'm afraid I have to decline. I hope you can understand."
“Melissa, I know you want this.. you told me how much you really wanted to strive in this time, giving yourself a second chance but now you are reajecting such a huge offer?” Richard said to me …I knew he was clearly not expecting me to reject him but yet I did.
“I am sorry if I made you feel this way but I am not rejecting it because it is you…I just don’t want my pictures out there no matter what.” I said to Richard hoping he would at least understand me, this was such an honor and I was meant to be happy about it but Avalor would find me easily.
I took a deep breath, knowing that Richard already knew about my pregnancy. I couldn't use that as an excuse again. I needed to come up with something else, something that would convince Richard and the company that I couldn't be the face of the new product.
"Richard, I appreciate the opportunity, but I've been experiencing some health issues recently," I said, trying to sound genuine. "It's nothing serious, but it's affecting my energy levels and ability to perform at my best."
Richard furrowed his brows, concern evident on his face. "Melissa, I had no idea. You should have told me sooner. Is there anything I can do to help?"
I shook my head, trying to maintain the lie. "Thank you, Richard, but it's something I need to figure out on my own. I don't want to let the company down, and I think it would be best for someone else to take on the role of being the face of the new product."
Richard sighed, clearly disappointed but understanding. "Melissa, I respect your decision. Your health should always be a priority. Take the time you need to recover and let me know if there's anything I can do to support you."
I nodded, grateful for Richard's understanding. "Thank you, Richard. I truly appreciate your support. I'll make sure to contribute in other ways and continue to work hard behind the scenes."
Richard gave me a reassuring smile. "I have no doubt that you will, Melissa. Your dedication and talent are invaluable to this company. We'll find another way to showcase your skills when you're ready."
As I left Richard's office, a mix of relief and guilt washed over me. I was relieved that I had successfully avoided being the face of the new product and potentially exposing my true identity. But I also felt guilty for lying to Richard, who had been nothing but supportive and understanding.
I knew that I had to continue to be cautious and keep my secret hidden. The world I came from was dangerous, and I couldn't afford to let anyone discover who I truly was. For now, I would focus on taking care of my health and finding alternative ways to contribute to the company's success.
And as I walked back to my office, I couldn't help but wonder how long I could keep up this delicate balancing act between my hidden identity and the life I was building in the human realm.