Chapter 4 - The Rejection
Clara did not reach for the envelope.
“I don't want your money, Mr Sterling,” Clara said firmly.
Julian looked genuinely shocked for the first time in his life.
“People do not usually refuse my gifts,” he noted, his eyes narrowing with curiosity.
“I did not pull that woman out of the car for a reward,” Clara explained.
“I did it because she was going to die, and nobody else was moving.”
Julian slowly lowered his hand, slipping the envelope back into his pocket.
“Your employer fired you for your heroism,” Julian pointed out.
“I know,” Clara sighed, her shoulders slumping slightly.
“I just wanted to keep my job and provide for my daughter.”
Julian smiled, a rare, genuine expression that transformed his sharp features.
“I took care of Marcus Thorne,” Julian told her softly.
Clara looked up, confusion written all over her exhausted face.
“I purchased the company and terminated his employment,” Julian explained.
Clara gasped, dropping the heavy wrench onto the wooden floor.
“You are now the Regional Director of Safety for MetroGrid,” he announced.
“Your salary has been quadrupled, and your new office overlooks the city.”
Tears welled up in Clara’s eyes as the magnitude of his words hit her.
She covered her mouth with her bandaged hands, sobbing quietly.
“Why are you doing this for me?” she whispered through her tears.
May you like
“Because loyalty and bravery should be rewarded, not punished,” Julian replied softly.
He tipped his head respectfully and walked out the door, leaving her in stunned silence.
