Changing Guidelines
Found this while cleaning up my room. I wrote this a couple of years ago.. Whether it was meant to end like this, or just incomplete, I do not remember.
Diane carefully parked her new chilli red MINI cooper S into the lot with printed with the fading words “Financial Controller”. Taking a quick glance at the diamond-studded watch wrapped round her slender wrist, she smiled gleefully when she realized that she was half an hour early. Knowing that her lazy subordinates will be having breakfast in the office canteen at this hour, she strolled into the office to check to see if they would prove her wrong.
She whipped her employees’ pass out of her purse and gently tapped it on the unsightly metallic card reader. It beeped and flashed the time “09:37”. Unusually early of me, she thought, as she pushed open the heavy glass door. She smoothened her skirt as she stepped into the office, and scanned the perimeters.
Not a single soul in sight? She grinned, happy that there was something to scream at her subordinates for. And the computers weren’t even switched on. She made a mental note as she made her way towards her special cell with the golden letters “Financial Controller” imprinted on the door. Suddenly, Diane sensed that she was not alone. She spun round to see that she had missed someone, the part-time girl she employed three months ago to help out with the surge in invoices during the year-end sales.
The girl’s hair was tied up in a ponytail, her big eyes hidden under her thick glasses. She looked up and smiled at Diane, politely addressing her, “good morning Miss Chan”.
“Good morning.” Diane forced a smile. What’s her name again? Diane tried her luck.
“Eileen?”
“Elaine.” The young girl corrected. She looked up at Diane patiently, waiting for her response.
“Where are the rest?” Diane tried to sound as nonchalant as possible.
Elaine turned to face the stacks of invoices that occupied every inch of her desk. “In the ladies.” She whispered softly.
Not a very good liar. Diane looked at the almost empty office, then at the girl. Overworked and underpaid. An A-levels graduate waiting for her university application results slogging here for 5 bucks an hour. How pathetic. Diane thought. She probably has the highest qualifications after me. How ironic. I should fire all the other overpaid employees.
She rummaged through her laptop bag for her keys, and opened the door to her lonely little transparent compartment. The aquarium-like design enable her to watch the rest work, but it also meant that she would be closely watched like a guppy in a tank.
She closed the door after her, shutting herself from the outside world of treachery and politics.
Safe. Or so she thought, until the piercing rings of her telephone brought her back to reality.
Caller ID:
Mum
She drew a deep breath, and proceeded to take the call.
“Siew Bee?” Her mother’s shrill like voice sounded highly pitched over the phone.
“Yes mum? I’m busy. Call you back later.” She breathed out and slammed her flip phone shut without giving the other party a chance to protest.
She nested herself on the comfortable leather office chair and drew out her laptop.
26th March 2005.
The computer blinked:
Schedule for today:
Diane scrolled through the things she had to do today. Lunch with boss, meeting with salespeople... She murmured. “As usual. “ and her eyes rested on a particular line:
Mum’s 58th birthday
Diane groaned.
Somewhere in the building, unknown to Diane, someone was watching her every move.
-----
Diane tried to fake the most sincere smile she could.
Hypocrisy, she thought, is my forte.
Lunch with her boss was never pleasurable. In fact, she would be incredibly lucky if it didn’t feel painful. In the past, when she was younger, it was much easier. All it needed was a pitiful look, or Diane to pout a little, and Andrew will let her have her way. She suspected that it was probably the only reason why she could climb her way up to be the financial controller.
In fact, her ability to flirt had such a bad reputation even other managers will leer at her in a suggestive manner while female employees whisper behind her back. Tales of how the place of a financial controller in a prestigious car firm can fall into the hands of an attractive, insatiable young woman when she was only 24 soon accumulated so immensely, it could easily be bundled and made the best seller in MPH bookstores under the category of scandalous novels.
But now I’m 32. She sighed. And time had played her. Her biological clock was ticking furiously. Once, she gave up her marriage and her chance to start a family. She divorced her husband because she felt that she needed her monetary wealth and status more than she needed a family. An abortion was all it took to end the 2-year marriage. And for the past 8 years she tried to justify that she made the right decision back then.
However, Diane knew Andrew’s power was waning. He feared his domineering wife so much, she suspected that he was stripped of his finances, and that as a result, Diane was showered with lesser gifts and attention.
“Diane?” Andrew questioned, looking at her with mere concern.
For a split second she almost believed that the man actually cared about her, to see her as something more than a mere mistress.
But he immediately reverted to his self-centeredness and “Jason phenomena”.
“As I was saying, Jason wants a new car. Is there anyway we can charge the Honda S2000 to the company’s expenses?” He chuckled. “Try not to make it look suspicious, of course.” He rested his hand on hers.
Diane sighed. Jason, Jason, Jason. Is that the only thing Andrew cared about? Another new car? That must be the only reason why the COE prices are increasing.
She looked at Andrew. His hair was graying. He was a man of taste. Buying nothing but the finest. Using nothing but the finest – women included. But this man, being 15 years older than Diane, could no longer provide her with what she needed.
Before Andrew can make another comment about his wonderful son, Diane took the rest of the day off.
-----
Diane scouted the 3-room flat of her mother through the window. She rapped gently on the metal grille.
She’s not around? Diane wondered, thinking if she should go retrieve the keys to her mother’s house, which she left in her car.
“Siew Bee!” The familiar shrill sent reverberations down the corridor. Her mother was wearing the purple blouse with flowery prints - the blouse that she only wore during special occasions.
“What a pleasant surprise?” Mrs Chan exclaimed, obviously happy to see her only daughter. She waved the bright red bags she was carrying hysterically. “See? I bought joss sticks and incense! Must be fate! Luckily I remembered that I forgot to shut the windows. If not you would have missed me.”
Diane froze. Joss sticks? Incense? She realized that this only meant one thing.
-----
“You’re driving me to visit your father’s grave. How delightful!” the petite woman continued, “you haven’t visited him for years.”
Yes, Diane thought, and with a reason too. The day her father brought home another woman, Diane swore never to forgive him. A man who did not provide for her or her mother did not deserve her mother’s undying love. A man who broke her mother’s heart should never be allowed to redeem himself.
Diane glanced sideways to her mother. Mrs Chan reached for the air freshener and helped herself by spraying a generous amount as though she intended to murder a bull with it.
“Ma, stop it. You’re killing us” Diane scowled.
Mrs Chan lowered the bottle. She knew that her daughter never liked the smell of incense as much as she didn’t like the scent of Diane’s perfume. The air freshener, however, would perfectly cover these two scents. She see no sense in paying hundreds of dollars for a small bottle of liquid that was highly volatile, and had never approved of her daughter’s spendthrift ways.
“New car again, Siew Bee?” She questioned, half-knowing that her question will be met with displeasure.
Diane checked her blind spot and lane changed, skillfully guiding the car to the right lane. She nodded and said nothing to incur her mother’s wrath. After all, she reasoned, it’s her birthday.
Mrs Chan sighed. She knew her daughter was acting like a child. Her stubbornness had an uncanny resemblance to her father. She did not blame her Siew Bee. After all, they grew up in a poor environment. It’s no wonder her daughter had a thirst for wealth. But she could not comprehend why her daughter chose to give up the man she claimed to love and married.
Diane had a secret. Her mother did not know that one of the factors leading to her divorce the fact that she aborted her unborn baby with her ex-husband when she could have kept their child and saved the marriage. She also didn’t reveal the fact that she was waiting for Andrew to divorce his wife and marry her then. But now she realized that it will never be possible. Not with Jason around anyway. If her mother knew that she was together with an old and married man, Diane was almost certain she would lose her mother the way her father had lost her.
Mrs Chan felt the new leather of the seat. Brand new. She thought and closed her eyes. Siew Bee was the only thing that she was proud of. She heard accusations against her darling, and it broke her heart. My poor Siew Bee, she thought, what are you doing with your life? She remembered how betrayed her daughter felt when she chose to forgive her husband. Her daughter would never understand that she never stopped loving her husband. The day she took in her husband, Siew Bee moved out.
No, Mrs Chan decided. Her daughter will never be the other woman.
When they reached, Diane refused to step out of the car.
-----
Diane flung her bag on her sofa and sank onto the seat.
Home at last.
The marble floor gleamed. Every painting on the walls was worth thousands of dollars. The house was spotless; not a trace of its inhabitants can be found. The lavishly decorated apartment is a reflection of its owner. Not the elegance or the posh decors.
It was the emptiness that resembled Diane.
Diane trudged to her room. The lights flickered on. She headed directly to the showers.
On her bed, a tattered teddy bear formed the only eyesore, and yet, the only remnants of humanity.
-----
Diane stood at the dressing table, generously applying another layer of foundation onto the already flawless cake of make-up on her face, trying to cover whatever fine lines the naked eye could not see. Ever since Diane started working, she made it a point that no one will ever see her bare face. No matter where she was, traces of make-up would be found, to add color to her plain face. The mask of powder was her source of confidence, hiding her every emotion.
Her bloodshot eyes, however, gave her away. The thin vessels looked ready to explode - evidence of the lack of proper sleep.
A phone call from Jason woke her up an hour ago.
“Diane? I’ll drop by later. I’m sure Dad told you.” His boyish voice sounded chirpy in the morning.
Diane sighed. She don’t see how meeting the younger one will be more exciting than meeting his father. But she knew she had to. The young master wanted a new car, and that means work for her.
-----
Diane waltzed from the car park to her office, and she stumbled on a bright yellow car.
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX? Is it even launched in Singapore yet? Diane thought as she studied the car.
“Wait a minute... In auto gear? What a waste!” she murmured. What’s the use of having such a powerful car if you cant use the turbo?
The car was parked at in the “Sales Manager” lot.
Diane laughed in sarcasm.
She picked up her pace and headed straight to her office. The same card reader beeped and flashed “10:40”. Diane entered and looked at all her subordinates. Coincidentally, they all looked hardworking, and their hair and make-up were perfect… too perfect.
She smiled. When there’s 22-year-old good-looking undergrad around, especially a rich one, her subordinates will be perfect little angels. She scouted for Jason.
She didn’t have to look far. The boyish voice with the American accent whispered a “hello” in her ear and appeared from behind her. She blinked as a tall, attractive young man walked up to her. He wore an oversized shirt with the wordings “Billabong” slashed across it; yet, Diane could see his V-shaped swimmer’s body frame. His cargo pants hung dangerously low along his waistline. But his charming smile almost blinded her.
He waved playfully to her and motioned her to her office.
“So… Is it possible to get my S2000? You like that car, don’t you?” Jason inquired as he sat down on the very uncomfortable red office chair.
“I don’t.” Diane replied. She studied Jason. He has his father’s eyes.
“You don’t?” Jason seemed shocked. “So what do you like?” He flashed the latest Hotstuff magazine in her face.
Diane didn’t even bulge. She thought of the bright yellow car she saw this morning.
“Evo 9.”
“In blue as usual?” Jason leaned forward and waited for her reaction.
“It’s yours. You decide.” Diane wondered if she could fool the auditors by capitalizing the expenditure. Yeah right. And put this as delivery van? She thought in mockery.
“In manual gear.” She added firmly.
Jason laughed, “Who wouldn’t but such a toy in manual? I know you like such cars. I’ll let you drive around once I lay my hands on it.”
His offer was sincere. Diane shifted uncomfortably. She could feel that this conversation was getting somewhere. Jason came with an intention. Diane took a sip of her coffee.
Jason cleared his throat.
“Will you accompany me to the Dinner and Dance?”
She almost choked.
What was Jason thinking?
Diane went thorough all of her possibilities, her mind working furiously.
“I’ve always liked you. I thought you knew that!” Jason exclaimed in anxiety, pressing his face forward, his sharp features wincing in despair.
Diane was stumped by this sudden confession. She always thought of Jason as the little boy - Andrew’s son. In love with her? She narrowed her eyes. Why? She noticed Jason’s pitiful, soulful look. Why not?
Andrew will be going with his wife anyway. She needed to spite him. And she just found a way to. On top of that, she knew Jason was the next Andrew – the next heir to the family’s fortune.
No, she believed that she had no conscience. Her faith had been marred long ago. It was wealth that motivated her.
For once, she looked happily at her prey.
“Dinner tonight?”
Neither Jason nor Diane knew that their conversation was picked up. A few meters away, someone was processing every detail that escaped their lips.
-----
This is greed. I already have everything I seek, don’t I? Why am I here attempting to play this young boy? Diane thought furiously as she flung open the door.
“You look beautiful”. The warm voice greeted her. Diane stopped in her tracks and stared rudely at the young man clothed in a gray suit, blue tie and black leather shoes that gleamed under the soft lights. He was holding out a bouquet of roses for her.
She was no longer looking at the young boy she knew. She was facing a man.
She remembered Jason’s compliment and smiled.
“No. Time is catching up in me. How can I be beautiful?” She received the bouquet from him and invited Jason in.
“Well, then you must be a beauty that transcends all ages. Like the Temple of Isis perhaps? Transcending all ages and yet never losing its majesty.” Jason replied without thinking.
“The Temple of Isis? You’ve been reading up too much on Egypt.” A smooth talker. Diane observed. Just like his father.
Diane liked Egypt. Ironically, she was the one that fed Jason’s young mind on the wonders of Egypt; the Gods, the fertility of the Nile, and it’s contrast to Rome. Literary works described it to be of enjoyment, of freedom, of wealth and pleasure. Egypt was passion. When Cleopatra ruled Egypt she fell in love with the great Julius Caesar and Mark Anthony. Diane knew that such reckless passions are hardly accepted in her conservative society. But the Shakespearean plays portrayed such love to be strong, true, and undying. And I’m living in a play not written by Shakespeare. This is reality.
Diane busied herself with the roses and her crystal vase. She knew this was wrong, but Jason was beginning to interest her. She sensed that this young man was naïve, but he had the courage to confess to her that he liked her. She was ten years older. They will be an unsightly couple to those who adhere strictly to status quo. Yet, he did what he knew he wanted, not what was right.
Her crystal vase reflected her blurred image. Her brows were tightly locked. She looked confused. She was confused.
If Jason didn’t do what was right. Should she correct it? What exactly defines “right”?
She realized that she didn’t know as well. She had been doing nothing right for as long as she could remember. Like roses, anything beautiful brings pains with it. Diane knew she had to warn Jason of the thorns. Using Jason to spite Andrew would be unethical.
She stole a glance at Jason. The untested, untainted Jason. Too perfect, too incredible.
-----
Diane snapped the leather-covered notebook shut. She stroked the leather of her notebook. There were so many thoughts that she wanted to scribble on the white pages of the diary, to hear the scratching of the pen working in quick bold strokes, yet she didn’t know how to start.
Jason was a perfect gentleman. He was well read, knowledgeable and wise despite his young age. Tonight was magical. Which is probably the reason why I think I might have felt something for him. Or maybe it was the jealousy. Diane didn’t know which. The man that dined with her was the object of affection to Andrew. He used to be the only thing that stood between them. Now she had to reshape Jason’s position in her heart – and she didn’t know how.
She pulled opened her drawer. Inside, similar leather notebooks were arranged neatly. Each and every one told a tale, and the leather smelt old. Nostalgia. She thought. That’s the word. She replaced the notebook she was holding and drew out an identical one.
29th November 1994 Tuesday 20:04 Sunny
He drove me through a long narrow road. The next thing I saw was the pretty orange lights from the runway. A plane was taking off. I watched from the other side of the fence, mesmerized by the majestic sight. Then he put his arms around me and whispered the words in my ears. “Will you marry me?” Those are the best words anyone has ever said to me…
Diane flipped though the pages.
2nd April 1995 Thursday 23:58 Starry
We are finally married! I know this one and only guy I love who walked into my life and stole my heart will never let me down.
Not this. Diane thought. Her heart was tearing.
She rested her hand on another notebook. As she lifted it, an old photograph fell out. Its edges were yellow from age. But it had preserved the youth of her parents. Diane saw little Siew Bee in the arms of her mother. Her father stood beside them, his arms wrapped around her mother’s. He was smiling like every other proud father. But separating her father from them was a long, ugly tear, taped carefully to join the two parts backed together. But she no longer felt pain or anger.
Only a tinge of remorse.
She trudged to her bed, picked up the teddy bear and made her way to a corner and crouched, hugging her teddy tightly as though it emitted some sort of warmth that she wanted to badly. And she stayed there until the sun’s rays greeted her the next morning.
-----
She made contact with her seat for less than thirty seconds when someone knocked on the door. Diane could barely say, “come in” when the phone rang. She noted the caller. Sales department? Let them wait. She yawned.
The part-time girl stepped in. her face was obscure from view, framed by her heavy tresses and thick glasses. She was clutching an invoice. What’s her name again?
“Miss Chan, I need to tell you that my contract is almost up. I...” She faltered. The phone rang again. Diane motioned for her to sit as she picked up the call.
An exasperated voice warned Diane “Elvira’s coming upstairs to your office! She’s pissed that Elaine insulted her staff by telling her that the documents are insufficient. Her staff called Elaine an incompetent fool and insists that Elvira should get Elaine fired. ”
Insulted? Diane wondered. How? But before she could question, the line was dead.
Diane’s features hardened. She knew Elvira was not someone she would want to trifle with. She was a relative to Andrew’s wife, and Diane loathed her. Elvira despised Diane of making use of her looks to gain her status as much as Diane looked down on her for making use of her ties. Coincidentally, they were the only females holding high posts in the company.
Diane was not about to lose to an inferior female.
She looked Elaine in the eye and raised her eyebrow. She didn’t even have to interrogate. The young girl guessed her intentions.
“She wasn’t following the system. I couldn’t reimburse the petty cash so she confronted me once, demanding that I allow her to do so... Moreover she wanted to register the car although the finance settlements were not approved. I went downstairs and asked her to rectify it and somehow it blew the matter up…” Elaine spoke with best coherence she could. She handed the invoice she was holding to Diane.
“You rejected Elvira’s petty cash reimbursement?” Diane heard herself laugh as she was reminded of the mistress of the dark that shared the same name. And the fact that she thought the both of them shared the same taste in their hair-styling preferences.
Elaine shook her head quickly. She mouthed “Alicia.”
Diane didn’t care who Alicia was. It didn’t matter anyway. Anyone running to her manager for the slightest thing was not worth her attention. In fact, the way Elaine handled things earned her respect. She had confidence Diane had never seen in her before, and Diane liked confident people. Now, all she had to do was to force Alicia to shut up, and leave Elvira speechless, Diane decided that betting on Elaine would be better than pacifying Elvira. After all, Elvira was getting too costly for the company. She should retire. Diane commented silently.
Diane saw Elvira charge into the main office. She made a quick decision.
“Never be too weak to defend your stand. I’ll be on your side.” Diane assured the girl who was quiet all this time. She nodded gratefully.
Soon. Elvira charged in, followed by her trusty sidekick. Diane’s subordinates were all too shocked to react. They stared, dumbfounded.
“Your girl insulted my staff!” Elvira heaved. She took in so much air; the buttons near her chest were exploding, exaggerating her outrageous bust line. The bright yellow blouse she was wearing made her look like an oversized banana. All the better to match her car with.
“Elvira, in case you haven’t realized, I am in the middle of an important meeting. If you don’t mind, please wait outside.” Diane forced a grim smile. She saw Elvira back out of her glass walls and stood outside of the door, still visible, never once taking her eyes off Elaine.
Diane pressed on and motioned for Elvira. She opened the door to step in, but Diane spoke so loud and clear she was sure every living soul within 5 meters could hear her. “Elvira, if you would please wait outside the Finance department. This place is strictly private and confidential.” She deliberately turned to Elaine and smiled, watching Elvira from the corner of her eye.
As expected, the woman threw open the door with such violence that the glass walls shook. The woman was now red in her face. Beads of perspiration ran down her forehead, cutting through her make up.
“How dare you!” Elvira began.
Diane looked at her disapprovingly. She meant to insult Elvira, to remind her that her land and territory were not to be desecrated.
“Your girl…” Elvira pointed an accusing finger at the part-time girl, her murderous eyes darting from Diane to Elaine.
“Elvira! How nice of you to drop by. I was meaning to speak with you about this special case. Your staff approved the registration of a car? Without a finance settlement?” Diane turned to the trusty sidekick who turned pale. She waved the precious invoice to Elvira and watched her face turn redder as she studied the contents.
“I believe this is not your first day at work? What if this guy can’t pay for the car? Is your miserable pay sufficient to pay for it?” Before Elvira could say another word, Diane continued, “ and you intend to reimburse the petty cash? I don’t recall seeing my signature on it, or Elvira’s? If your signature was valid, do you think the company needs to hire me or your boss?” Her voice grew louder with every second.
Alicia stood there, motionless, and hung her head low. Her dark blue uniform looked corporate and boring like her personality, a life without vibrant colors. She was unmotivated, working was a chore to her, and it seemed that the only thing that mattered to her was income. Alicia would never be early for work, only on time. She would never think about how to solve problems. Elvira was there, and Alicia was certain that the only way to play safe was to let her manager settle all the problems. It was a matter of responsibility. Alicia couldn’t handle it. A 30-year old admin staff cannot handle tasks like speaking up to financial controllers. No, she could boss part-time staffs around or rant at salespeople. But Alicia feared authority.
Diane wasn’t about to let this opportunity slip pass her.
“And you called my girl an incompetent fool? In front of the whole sales department?” Diane stood up and paced the room.
She turned to Elvira, who was speechless by now.
“So… How do you intend to settle this incident?” She pretended to seek Elvira’s advice. Diane was celebrating her victory silently.
Elvira threw a dirty look at Alicia and flashed an incredibly fake smile. “And how do you propose we settle this?”
“Elvira, Elvira…” Diane taunted. “You’re the sales manager. How can you be associated with mistakes like these?” she threw a glance at Alicia, and continued, “It’s not difficult to solve this problem. Firstly, this car will not be registered until the valid documents to prove that its financial settlement is approved are submitted. Secondly, I demand that you get someone of authority to sign the petty cash reimbursement form before I give you a single cent. Lastly, I expect an apology email to be sent to everyone in the company for the inconvenience you have caused and the remarks you made to Elaine.”
Elvira coughed, “Alicia will do as she you please. I’m sorry for the trouble caused.”
Diane knew she would have to pay for her sweet revenge in future. Elvira will somehow find a way to get back at her. But she also knew that if she missed such a wonderful opportunity to vent her anger, she wouldn’t be able to sleep comfortably tonight. Winning mattered a lot to her – she can worry about the consequences later.
Diane smiled and offered to walk Elvira to the door. Alicia sulked and followed behind. Elaine didn’t move from her seat.
After walking the duo to the door, Diane knew there was one more thing to do.
“Your contract’s up you say? How about renewing it? I’ll give you a pay rise.”
The girl nodded thankfully.
Diane made it a point to remember her name.
-----
Diane wasn’t worried. The Evo would not be launched until mid-year. Diane was sure she could let the auditors work on the accounts without much trouble. She knew that all it needed was one mistake and it would cause her downfall. She would either have to persuade Andrew to pay for the car, or charge the expense to him unknowingly.
Either way, it was nowhere near illegal.
Somehow, she had a feeling that this move was essential to her survival.
-----
She stopped in her tracks. A dark figure was lurking near her car. Then she heard a high-pitched sound that made every hair on her pore stand. The familiar sound of fingernails scratching the blackboard. Diane darted towards her car. The unexpected stranger, sensing her presence, fled down the long and winding corridor. Diane chased after her.
Diane had to abandon the chase. Her three-inched heels proved to be a disadvantage. She could only watch as the unknown figure disappeared into the darkness.
Diane sighed. She inspected her car. Unsurprisingly, a deep, long, unsightly scratch was visible. The red car gave a soft beep as the headlights flashed. She reached for the door, her freshly manicured nails gleaming under the light. Then she halted. Diane whipped out her phone and started dialing the guardhouse.
Soon, she’ll find out the answer.
-----
She ran as fast as her legs could carry her. She was still clutching her keys. Her heart pounding at a rate she had never experienced before. She loosened a button and breathed deeply, attempting to clear her mind.
Did Diane see her? Is she still looking for her?
She paused and held her breath. The place was haunted with dead silence. No sounds of heels clicking against the gray tiles. No signs of anyone following her. She blended into the shadows.
-----
Diane made her way to the security room in the corner of the building, which no one would venture into. Hidden from the rest of the staff, only those who set it up knew of its existence. Diane had already informed the guards to look out for suspicious characters. She knew it would be hard; the building was also open to customers. The only place where she can get all her answers would be the security room.
She tapped her employee’s card on the reader and entered her unique pin. She pushed the door metal door open. The door swung back quickly and plunged her into total darkness. She ventured forward, felt for another depression on the wall in the darkness and slide the door open.
The security technician held his breath and stared at the monitors as Diane entered. Diane leaned towards the sea of monitors. When she suspected that information was being leaked out of the company, Diane set up the security room and had cameras cleverly hidden on every spot she could think of. The individuals were little worker ants being monitored. It worked instantly. She was able to eradicate the spies from the various departments and the problems ceased.
On the monitor transmitting from camera #17, the technician had skillfully frozen the frame.
“Can you lighten the contrast?” Diane asked as she squinted at the monitor. The technician did as he was told.
“Zoom in.” she instructed.
Diane had her answer.
-----
Alicia squeezed through the boxes of invoices and tiptoed her way to her little cubicle. The moment she touched the mouse, the desktop slurred from its slumber and she caught herself looking at her wallpaper. The eyes of the little boy from the photograph seemed to be winking at her; other than his brown eyes, he looked like the little actor from Harry Potter.
Alicia’s features softened as she looked at her only source of comfort.
She had been too impatient.
She clicked on an in conspicuous icon on her desktop. The image of an office filled the screen. She could hear and see everything Diane was up to by bribing the repairmen to install a camera hidden near the air-con and a transmitter in her penholder. There was no humming of the air-conditioner. Alicia grinned as the thought of Diane driving in her disfigured car crept in.
Revenge will be sweet. She had planned this for over a year.
She smiled as she counted down to her little surprise for Diane.
-----
Jason held the door open and offered his hand. The soft yellow lights of the Fullerton hotel greeted them as they are welcomed into the ballroom, where other members of the company are gathered. Diane’s ivory white gown caressed her smooth skin in contrast to the midnight-black hair locked in a French twist. The simple and plain style showed off her elegance. Her shoes glittered under the light as she took small steps to the table they were assigned to.
She deliberately brushed Andrew’s arm as they reached. His wife, Hui Xin was beside him, eyeing her every move like a hawk. She wore a black halter dress, and was frosted with diamond accessories. Andrew looked up, smiled, but immediately paled when he saw Jason beside her. Jason grinned proudly as he pulled a chair for Diane beside his father. As he sat down, Diane wrapped her arm round his, and leaned towards him.
It was too much for the other woman. Her fists were clenched; her knuckles were protruding in the most unnatural manner. Andrew, on sensing her hostility, tugged her dress. She shoved his arm aside and attempted to calm down. She stood up and in a commanding tone, addressed Diane.
“What do you want?” her tone firm, but escaped her lips as a soft whisper.
Diane wrapped her arms tighter round Jason and turned to him for help. His mother’s oppressing question was obviously directed at her.
Jason expected an adverse reaction. After all, his mother didn’t like Diane from the very moment she laid her eyes on her, much less to accept her as the woman that he has chosen. But he knew that his mother loved her pride – she will not do anything to either of them as long as the dinner was still proceeding. He asked Diane to the Dinner and Dance for two reasons. Firstly, if she accepted him as a date, it would mean that he was of importance to her. Secondly, he couldn’t think of another way to tell his parents that he love her. This would be more than a subtle hint.
For years he has tried to deny that he was felt something for his father’s new young accountant. She spoke music and wisdom, she taught him the arts and cultures; she showed him the wonders of science and the mysteries of nature. Whenever he visited his father in his office, Diane was there with her beautiful smile and would gently stroke his head and tell him what a fine young man he turned out to be. Of course, as years progressed, she could only lay her slender arm on his shoulder and acknowledge the man in front of her. Over the years he dated other girls, hoping to forget this enchantress.
But he could not.
He looked into the eyes of Diane. Unable to suppress himself further, he pressed his lips to hers and engaged in the kiss he’s been wanting to happen for years.
He felt the warmth of her lips and relished every single moment. When they parted, he whispered.
“This – is what I want.”
Everyone else stared rudely.
-----
The auditors didn’t arrive until after eleven, Diane greeted each and every one of them with enthusiasm, those she have seen before, as well as new faces straight out of school. It has been some time since she felt such light-hearted.
She walked them to the meeting room, a personal space for the auditors to work during this period. She was about to excuse herself from the room when Andrew appeared, followed by a few men in their thirties.
“Diane, this men would like a word with you.” Andrew said, and referred her to the men. He apologized to the auditors and excused himself.
As Diane walked through the carpeted corridors to her office, she attempted to strike a conversation with one of the men. He was, however, silent and kept a grim face.
Once in the privacy of her office, one of the men flashed their ID.
Commercial Affairs? She read quietly.
“What is this about?” she questioned. She looked at Andrew, who showed no sign of emotion.
The men briefly explained their intentions. They had received an unknown tip-off and received video and sound clippings about possible embezzlement of the company’s funds.
Alicia chuckled as she saw Andrew’s grim face. She cant wait for Diane to break down and beg for mercy, then she would appear and tell the rest that she had concrete evidence that Diane was plotting to misuse the funds. She would ruin Diane, the way Diane had ruined her husband and caused him to be thrown into prison. She would then be the heroine that saved the company from an inevitable disaster. Andrew would trust and promote her.
She played and re-played Diane’s conversation with Jason, as well as the tape recording of Diane and Andrew in their favorite restaurant. “Jason wants a new car. Is there anyway we can charge the Honda S2000 to the company’s expenses?” she laughed at this particular line. Soon, Diane will be out of sight, no longer contaminating the company with her presence.
Diane shrugged. “So what do you have against me?”
“Actually, we would require your assistance. Can we take a look at the records?” the man asked politely. “I have not properly introduced myself. I’m Inspector Lee.”
Alicia watched patiently as they poured through the books and photocopied things they needed. Some, they took with them, carefully labeled. The auditors were called in, and Alicia knew she was winning.
Diane stood beside Andrew, saying nothing. Her mind was fixed on the inspector’s words. “Video clippings?” she thought. From? The security room? Impossible. No one else knew about it except Andrew and herself. Would Andrew betray her? No. She decided. Andrew was in this as well. Besides, he didn’t know that Diane settled the accounts in a proper, legal way. He would not attempt to make his firm the joke of the media.
The phone on her office desk rang in with a shrill.
“Hello. Boss? I have something that may interest you. If you will, bring the authorities in as well.” The lab technician spoke quickly but clearly, obviously proud of himself.
Diane held onto the phone and wanted to call Andrew over, but the technician quickly warned. “Don’t say anything. Just come.”
As the group of people streamed out of the room, Alicia screamed. What’s wrong? What’s wrong! Arrest her!”
-----
A few monitors were fixed on a certain camera’s image. #04, it seems, took up a few monitors. Its images were in different frames, some enlarged, some brightened, some fixed. But a message was clear. A woman was in her little cubicle, staring at her computer screen, and her 17-inched screen unmistakably showed the image of Diane’s office.
She was obviously enjoying her game.
-----
Diane was glad Andrew offered to send her home. Everyone involved were brought in for questioning.
The police could find nothing to charge her.
Alicia, on the other hand was prosecuted for insider’s trading. And for scratching my car. Diane added. She remembered the last abuse hurled at her. “ You witch! You have taken everything from me. One day, you will lose these things and you will suffer a fate worse than mine.”
“Can you not hurt him?” Andrew asked, his eyes fixed on the road.
Diane thought of the proper words to say, and then she realized hypocrisy would not help here.
“I promise I won’t.”
-----
Diane carefully parked her new chilli red MINI cooper S into the lot with printed with the fading words “Financial Controller”. Taking a quick glance at the diamond-studded watch wrapped round her slender wrist, she smiled gleefully when she realized that she was half an hour early. Knowing that her lazy subordinates will be having breakfast in the office canteen at this hour, she strolled into the office to check to see if they would prove her wrong.
She whipped her employees’ pass out of her purse and gently tapped it on the unsightly metallic card reader. It beeped and flashed the time “09:37”. Unusually early of me, she thought, as she pushed open the heavy glass door. She smoothened her skirt as she stepped into the office, and scanned the perimeters.
Not a single soul in sight? She grinned, happy that there was something to scream at her subordinates for. And the computers weren’t even switched on. She made a mental note as she made her way towards her special cell with the golden letters “Financial Controller” imprinted on the door. Suddenly, Diane sensed that she was not alone. She spun round to see that she had missed someone, the part-time girl she employed three months ago to help out with the surge in invoices during the year-end sales.
The girl’s hair was tied up in a ponytail, her big eyes hidden under her thick glasses. She looked up and smiled at Diane, politely addressing her, “good morning Miss Chan”.
“Good morning.” Diane forced a smile. What’s her name again? Diane tried her luck.
“Eileen?”
“Elaine.” The young girl corrected. She looked up at Diane patiently, waiting for her response.
“Where are the rest?” Diane tried to sound as nonchalant as possible.
Elaine turned to face the stacks of invoices that occupied every inch of her desk. “In the ladies.” She whispered softly.
Not a very good liar. Diane looked at the almost empty office, then at the girl. Overworked and underpaid. An A-levels graduate waiting for her university application results slogging here for 5 bucks an hour. How pathetic. Diane thought. She probably has the highest qualifications after me. How ironic. I should fire all the other overpaid employees.
She rummaged through her laptop bag for her keys, and opened the door to her lonely little transparent compartment. The aquarium-like design enable her to watch the rest work, but it also meant that she would be closely watched like a guppy in a tank.
She closed the door after her, shutting herself from the outside world of treachery and politics.
Safe. Or so she thought, until the piercing rings of her telephone brought her back to reality.
Caller ID:
Mum
She drew a deep breath, and proceeded to take the call.
“Siew Bee?” Her mother’s shrill like voice sounded highly pitched over the phone.
“Yes mum? I’m busy. Call you back later.” She breathed out and slammed her flip phone shut without giving the other party a chance to protest.
She nested herself on the comfortable leather office chair and drew out her laptop.
26th March 2005.
The computer blinked:
Schedule for today:
Diane scrolled through the things she had to do today. Lunch with boss, meeting with salespeople... She murmured. “As usual. “ and her eyes rested on a particular line:
Mum’s 58th birthday
Diane groaned.
Somewhere in the building, unknown to Diane, someone was watching her every move.
-----
Diane tried to fake the most sincere smile she could.
Hypocrisy, she thought, is my forte.
Lunch with her boss was never pleasurable. In fact, she would be incredibly lucky if it didn’t feel painful. In the past, when she was younger, it was much easier. All it needed was a pitiful look, or Diane to pout a little, and Andrew will let her have her way. She suspected that it was probably the only reason why she could climb her way up to be the financial controller.
In fact, her ability to flirt had such a bad reputation even other managers will leer at her in a suggestive manner while female employees whisper behind her back. Tales of how the place of a financial controller in a prestigious car firm can fall into the hands of an attractive, insatiable young woman when she was only 24 soon accumulated so immensely, it could easily be bundled and made the best seller in MPH bookstores under the category of scandalous novels.
But now I’m 32. She sighed. And time had played her. Her biological clock was ticking furiously. Once, she gave up her marriage and her chance to start a family. She divorced her husband because she felt that she needed her monetary wealth and status more than she needed a family. An abortion was all it took to end the 2-year marriage. And for the past 8 years she tried to justify that she made the right decision back then.
However, Diane knew Andrew’s power was waning. He feared his domineering wife so much, she suspected that he was stripped of his finances, and that as a result, Diane was showered with lesser gifts and attention.
“Diane?” Andrew questioned, looking at her with mere concern.
For a split second she almost believed that the man actually cared about her, to see her as something more than a mere mistress.
But he immediately reverted to his self-centeredness and “Jason phenomena”.
“As I was saying, Jason wants a new car. Is there anyway we can charge the Honda S2000 to the company’s expenses?” He chuckled. “Try not to make it look suspicious, of course.” He rested his hand on hers.
Diane sighed. Jason, Jason, Jason. Is that the only thing Andrew cared about? Another new car? That must be the only reason why the COE prices are increasing.
She looked at Andrew. His hair was graying. He was a man of taste. Buying nothing but the finest. Using nothing but the finest – women included. But this man, being 15 years older than Diane, could no longer provide her with what she needed.
Before Andrew can make another comment about his wonderful son, Diane took the rest of the day off.
-----
Diane scouted the 3-room flat of her mother through the window. She rapped gently on the metal grille.
She’s not around? Diane wondered, thinking if she should go retrieve the keys to her mother’s house, which she left in her car.
“Siew Bee!” The familiar shrill sent reverberations down the corridor. Her mother was wearing the purple blouse with flowery prints - the blouse that she only wore during special occasions.
“What a pleasant surprise?” Mrs Chan exclaimed, obviously happy to see her only daughter. She waved the bright red bags she was carrying hysterically. “See? I bought joss sticks and incense! Must be fate! Luckily I remembered that I forgot to shut the windows. If not you would have missed me.”
Diane froze. Joss sticks? Incense? She realized that this only meant one thing.
-----
“You’re driving me to visit your father’s grave. How delightful!” the petite woman continued, “you haven’t visited him for years.”
Yes, Diane thought, and with a reason too. The day her father brought home another woman, Diane swore never to forgive him. A man who did not provide for her or her mother did not deserve her mother’s undying love. A man who broke her mother’s heart should never be allowed to redeem himself.
Diane glanced sideways to her mother. Mrs Chan reached for the air freshener and helped herself by spraying a generous amount as though she intended to murder a bull with it.
“Ma, stop it. You’re killing us” Diane scowled.
Mrs Chan lowered the bottle. She knew that her daughter never liked the smell of incense as much as she didn’t like the scent of Diane’s perfume. The air freshener, however, would perfectly cover these two scents. She see no sense in paying hundreds of dollars for a small bottle of liquid that was highly volatile, and had never approved of her daughter’s spendthrift ways.
“New car again, Siew Bee?” She questioned, half-knowing that her question will be met with displeasure.
Diane checked her blind spot and lane changed, skillfully guiding the car to the right lane. She nodded and said nothing to incur her mother’s wrath. After all, she reasoned, it’s her birthday.
Mrs Chan sighed. She knew her daughter was acting like a child. Her stubbornness had an uncanny resemblance to her father. She did not blame her Siew Bee. After all, they grew up in a poor environment. It’s no wonder her daughter had a thirst for wealth. But she could not comprehend why her daughter chose to give up the man she claimed to love and married.
Diane had a secret. Her mother did not know that one of the factors leading to her divorce the fact that she aborted her unborn baby with her ex-husband when she could have kept their child and saved the marriage. She also didn’t reveal the fact that she was waiting for Andrew to divorce his wife and marry her then. But now she realized that it will never be possible. Not with Jason around anyway. If her mother knew that she was together with an old and married man, Diane was almost certain she would lose her mother the way her father had lost her.
Mrs Chan felt the new leather of the seat. Brand new. She thought and closed her eyes. Siew Bee was the only thing that she was proud of. She heard accusations against her darling, and it broke her heart. My poor Siew Bee, she thought, what are you doing with your life? She remembered how betrayed her daughter felt when she chose to forgive her husband. Her daughter would never understand that she never stopped loving her husband. The day she took in her husband, Siew Bee moved out.
No, Mrs Chan decided. Her daughter will never be the other woman.
When they reached, Diane refused to step out of the car.
-----
Diane flung her bag on her sofa and sank onto the seat.
Home at last.
The marble floor gleamed. Every painting on the walls was worth thousands of dollars. The house was spotless; not a trace of its inhabitants can be found. The lavishly decorated apartment is a reflection of its owner. Not the elegance or the posh decors.
It was the emptiness that resembled Diane.
Diane trudged to her room. The lights flickered on. She headed directly to the showers.
On her bed, a tattered teddy bear formed the only eyesore, and yet, the only remnants of humanity.
-----
Diane stood at the dressing table, generously applying another layer of foundation onto the already flawless cake of make-up on her face, trying to cover whatever fine lines the naked eye could not see. Ever since Diane started working, she made it a point that no one will ever see her bare face. No matter where she was, traces of make-up would be found, to add color to her plain face. The mask of powder was her source of confidence, hiding her every emotion.
Her bloodshot eyes, however, gave her away. The thin vessels looked ready to explode - evidence of the lack of proper sleep.
A phone call from Jason woke her up an hour ago.
“Diane? I’ll drop by later. I’m sure Dad told you.” His boyish voice sounded chirpy in the morning.
Diane sighed. She don’t see how meeting the younger one will be more exciting than meeting his father. But she knew she had to. The young master wanted a new car, and that means work for her.
-----
Diane waltzed from the car park to her office, and she stumbled on a bright yellow car.
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX? Is it even launched in Singapore yet? Diane thought as she studied the car.
“Wait a minute... In auto gear? What a waste!” she murmured. What’s the use of having such a powerful car if you cant use the turbo?
The car was parked at in the “Sales Manager” lot.
Diane laughed in sarcasm.
She picked up her pace and headed straight to her office. The same card reader beeped and flashed “10:40”. Diane entered and looked at all her subordinates. Coincidentally, they all looked hardworking, and their hair and make-up were perfect… too perfect.
She smiled. When there’s 22-year-old good-looking undergrad around, especially a rich one, her subordinates will be perfect little angels. She scouted for Jason.
She didn’t have to look far. The boyish voice with the American accent whispered a “hello” in her ear and appeared from behind her. She blinked as a tall, attractive young man walked up to her. He wore an oversized shirt with the wordings “Billabong” slashed across it; yet, Diane could see his V-shaped swimmer’s body frame. His cargo pants hung dangerously low along his waistline. But his charming smile almost blinded her.
He waved playfully to her and motioned her to her office.
“So… Is it possible to get my S2000? You like that car, don’t you?” Jason inquired as he sat down on the very uncomfortable red office chair.
“I don’t.” Diane replied. She studied Jason. He has his father’s eyes.
“You don’t?” Jason seemed shocked. “So what do you like?” He flashed the latest Hotstuff magazine in her face.
Diane didn’t even bulge. She thought of the bright yellow car she saw this morning.
“Evo 9.”
“In blue as usual?” Jason leaned forward and waited for her reaction.
“It’s yours. You decide.” Diane wondered if she could fool the auditors by capitalizing the expenditure. Yeah right. And put this as delivery van? She thought in mockery.
“In manual gear.” She added firmly.
Jason laughed, “Who wouldn’t but such a toy in manual? I know you like such cars. I’ll let you drive around once I lay my hands on it.”
His offer was sincere. Diane shifted uncomfortably. She could feel that this conversation was getting somewhere. Jason came with an intention. Diane took a sip of her coffee.
Jason cleared his throat.
“Will you accompany me to the Dinner and Dance?”
She almost choked.
What was Jason thinking?
Diane went thorough all of her possibilities, her mind working furiously.
“I’ve always liked you. I thought you knew that!” Jason exclaimed in anxiety, pressing his face forward, his sharp features wincing in despair.
Diane was stumped by this sudden confession. She always thought of Jason as the little boy - Andrew’s son. In love with her? She narrowed her eyes. Why? She noticed Jason’s pitiful, soulful look. Why not?
Andrew will be going with his wife anyway. She needed to spite him. And she just found a way to. On top of that, she knew Jason was the next Andrew – the next heir to the family’s fortune.
No, she believed that she had no conscience. Her faith had been marred long ago. It was wealth that motivated her.
For once, she looked happily at her prey.
“Dinner tonight?”
Neither Jason nor Diane knew that their conversation was picked up. A few meters away, someone was processing every detail that escaped their lips.
-----
This is greed. I already have everything I seek, don’t I? Why am I here attempting to play this young boy? Diane thought furiously as she flung open the door.
“You look beautiful”. The warm voice greeted her. Diane stopped in her tracks and stared rudely at the young man clothed in a gray suit, blue tie and black leather shoes that gleamed under the soft lights. He was holding out a bouquet of roses for her.
She was no longer looking at the young boy she knew. She was facing a man.
She remembered Jason’s compliment and smiled.
“No. Time is catching up in me. How can I be beautiful?” She received the bouquet from him and invited Jason in.
“Well, then you must be a beauty that transcends all ages. Like the Temple of Isis perhaps? Transcending all ages and yet never losing its majesty.” Jason replied without thinking.
“The Temple of Isis? You’ve been reading up too much on Egypt.” A smooth talker. Diane observed. Just like his father.
Diane liked Egypt. Ironically, she was the one that fed Jason’s young mind on the wonders of Egypt; the Gods, the fertility of the Nile, and it’s contrast to Rome. Literary works described it to be of enjoyment, of freedom, of wealth and pleasure. Egypt was passion. When Cleopatra ruled Egypt she fell in love with the great Julius Caesar and Mark Anthony. Diane knew that such reckless passions are hardly accepted in her conservative society. But the Shakespearean plays portrayed such love to be strong, true, and undying. And I’m living in a play not written by Shakespeare. This is reality.
Diane busied herself with the roses and her crystal vase. She knew this was wrong, but Jason was beginning to interest her. She sensed that this young man was naïve, but he had the courage to confess to her that he liked her. She was ten years older. They will be an unsightly couple to those who adhere strictly to status quo. Yet, he did what he knew he wanted, not what was right.
Her crystal vase reflected her blurred image. Her brows were tightly locked. She looked confused. She was confused.
If Jason didn’t do what was right. Should she correct it? What exactly defines “right”?
She realized that she didn’t know as well. She had been doing nothing right for as long as she could remember. Like roses, anything beautiful brings pains with it. Diane knew she had to warn Jason of the thorns. Using Jason to spite Andrew would be unethical.
She stole a glance at Jason. The untested, untainted Jason. Too perfect, too incredible.
-----
Diane snapped the leather-covered notebook shut. She stroked the leather of her notebook. There were so many thoughts that she wanted to scribble on the white pages of the diary, to hear the scratching of the pen working in quick bold strokes, yet she didn’t know how to start.
Jason was a perfect gentleman. He was well read, knowledgeable and wise despite his young age. Tonight was magical. Which is probably the reason why I think I might have felt something for him. Or maybe it was the jealousy. Diane didn’t know which. The man that dined with her was the object of affection to Andrew. He used to be the only thing that stood between them. Now she had to reshape Jason’s position in her heart – and she didn’t know how.
She pulled opened her drawer. Inside, similar leather notebooks were arranged neatly. Each and every one told a tale, and the leather smelt old. Nostalgia. She thought. That’s the word. She replaced the notebook she was holding and drew out an identical one.
29th November 1994 Tuesday 20:04 Sunny
He drove me through a long narrow road. The next thing I saw was the pretty orange lights from the runway. A plane was taking off. I watched from the other side of the fence, mesmerized by the majestic sight. Then he put his arms around me and whispered the words in my ears. “Will you marry me?” Those are the best words anyone has ever said to me…
Diane flipped though the pages.
2nd April 1995 Thursday 23:58 Starry
We are finally married! I know this one and only guy I love who walked into my life and stole my heart will never let me down.
Not this. Diane thought. Her heart was tearing.
She rested her hand on another notebook. As she lifted it, an old photograph fell out. Its edges were yellow from age. But it had preserved the youth of her parents. Diane saw little Siew Bee in the arms of her mother. Her father stood beside them, his arms wrapped around her mother’s. He was smiling like every other proud father. But separating her father from them was a long, ugly tear, taped carefully to join the two parts backed together. But she no longer felt pain or anger.
Only a tinge of remorse.
She trudged to her bed, picked up the teddy bear and made her way to a corner and crouched, hugging her teddy tightly as though it emitted some sort of warmth that she wanted to badly. And she stayed there until the sun’s rays greeted her the next morning.
-----
She made contact with her seat for less than thirty seconds when someone knocked on the door. Diane could barely say, “come in” when the phone rang. She noted the caller. Sales department? Let them wait. She yawned.
The part-time girl stepped in. her face was obscure from view, framed by her heavy tresses and thick glasses. She was clutching an invoice. What’s her name again?
“Miss Chan, I need to tell you that my contract is almost up. I...” She faltered. The phone rang again. Diane motioned for her to sit as she picked up the call.
An exasperated voice warned Diane “Elvira’s coming upstairs to your office! She’s pissed that Elaine insulted her staff by telling her that the documents are insufficient. Her staff called Elaine an incompetent fool and insists that Elvira should get Elaine fired. ”
Insulted? Diane wondered. How? But before she could question, the line was dead.
Diane’s features hardened. She knew Elvira was not someone she would want to trifle with. She was a relative to Andrew’s wife, and Diane loathed her. Elvira despised Diane of making use of her looks to gain her status as much as Diane looked down on her for making use of her ties. Coincidentally, they were the only females holding high posts in the company.
Diane was not about to lose to an inferior female.
She looked Elaine in the eye and raised her eyebrow. She didn’t even have to interrogate. The young girl guessed her intentions.
“She wasn’t following the system. I couldn’t reimburse the petty cash so she confronted me once, demanding that I allow her to do so... Moreover she wanted to register the car although the finance settlements were not approved. I went downstairs and asked her to rectify it and somehow it blew the matter up…” Elaine spoke with best coherence she could. She handed the invoice she was holding to Diane.
“You rejected Elvira’s petty cash reimbursement?” Diane heard herself laugh as she was reminded of the mistress of the dark that shared the same name. And the fact that she thought the both of them shared the same taste in their hair-styling preferences.
Elaine shook her head quickly. She mouthed “Alicia.”
Diane didn’t care who Alicia was. It didn’t matter anyway. Anyone running to her manager for the slightest thing was not worth her attention. In fact, the way Elaine handled things earned her respect. She had confidence Diane had never seen in her before, and Diane liked confident people. Now, all she had to do was to force Alicia to shut up, and leave Elvira speechless, Diane decided that betting on Elaine would be better than pacifying Elvira. After all, Elvira was getting too costly for the company. She should retire. Diane commented silently.
Diane saw Elvira charge into the main office. She made a quick decision.
“Never be too weak to defend your stand. I’ll be on your side.” Diane assured the girl who was quiet all this time. She nodded gratefully.
Soon. Elvira charged in, followed by her trusty sidekick. Diane’s subordinates were all too shocked to react. They stared, dumbfounded.
“Your girl insulted my staff!” Elvira heaved. She took in so much air; the buttons near her chest were exploding, exaggerating her outrageous bust line. The bright yellow blouse she was wearing made her look like an oversized banana. All the better to match her car with.
“Elvira, in case you haven’t realized, I am in the middle of an important meeting. If you don’t mind, please wait outside.” Diane forced a grim smile. She saw Elvira back out of her glass walls and stood outside of the door, still visible, never once taking her eyes off Elaine.
Diane pressed on and motioned for Elvira. She opened the door to step in, but Diane spoke so loud and clear she was sure every living soul within 5 meters could hear her. “Elvira, if you would please wait outside the Finance department. This place is strictly private and confidential.” She deliberately turned to Elaine and smiled, watching Elvira from the corner of her eye.
As expected, the woman threw open the door with such violence that the glass walls shook. The woman was now red in her face. Beads of perspiration ran down her forehead, cutting through her make up.
“How dare you!” Elvira began.
Diane looked at her disapprovingly. She meant to insult Elvira, to remind her that her land and territory were not to be desecrated.
“Your girl…” Elvira pointed an accusing finger at the part-time girl, her murderous eyes darting from Diane to Elaine.
“Elvira! How nice of you to drop by. I was meaning to speak with you about this special case. Your staff approved the registration of a car? Without a finance settlement?” Diane turned to the trusty sidekick who turned pale. She waved the precious invoice to Elvira and watched her face turn redder as she studied the contents.
“I believe this is not your first day at work? What if this guy can’t pay for the car? Is your miserable pay sufficient to pay for it?” Before Elvira could say another word, Diane continued, “ and you intend to reimburse the petty cash? I don’t recall seeing my signature on it, or Elvira’s? If your signature was valid, do you think the company needs to hire me or your boss?” Her voice grew louder with every second.
Alicia stood there, motionless, and hung her head low. Her dark blue uniform looked corporate and boring like her personality, a life without vibrant colors. She was unmotivated, working was a chore to her, and it seemed that the only thing that mattered to her was income. Alicia would never be early for work, only on time. She would never think about how to solve problems. Elvira was there, and Alicia was certain that the only way to play safe was to let her manager settle all the problems. It was a matter of responsibility. Alicia couldn’t handle it. A 30-year old admin staff cannot handle tasks like speaking up to financial controllers. No, she could boss part-time staffs around or rant at salespeople. But Alicia feared authority.
Diane wasn’t about to let this opportunity slip pass her.
“And you called my girl an incompetent fool? In front of the whole sales department?” Diane stood up and paced the room.
She turned to Elvira, who was speechless by now.
“So… How do you intend to settle this incident?” She pretended to seek Elvira’s advice. Diane was celebrating her victory silently.
Elvira threw a dirty look at Alicia and flashed an incredibly fake smile. “And how do you propose we settle this?”
“Elvira, Elvira…” Diane taunted. “You’re the sales manager. How can you be associated with mistakes like these?” she threw a glance at Alicia, and continued, “It’s not difficult to solve this problem. Firstly, this car will not be registered until the valid documents to prove that its financial settlement is approved are submitted. Secondly, I demand that you get someone of authority to sign the petty cash reimbursement form before I give you a single cent. Lastly, I expect an apology email to be sent to everyone in the company for the inconvenience you have caused and the remarks you made to Elaine.”
Elvira coughed, “Alicia will do as she you please. I’m sorry for the trouble caused.”
Diane knew she would have to pay for her sweet revenge in future. Elvira will somehow find a way to get back at her. But she also knew that if she missed such a wonderful opportunity to vent her anger, she wouldn’t be able to sleep comfortably tonight. Winning mattered a lot to her – she can worry about the consequences later.
Diane smiled and offered to walk Elvira to the door. Alicia sulked and followed behind. Elaine didn’t move from her seat.
After walking the duo to the door, Diane knew there was one more thing to do.
“Your contract’s up you say? How about renewing it? I’ll give you a pay rise.”
The girl nodded thankfully.
Diane made it a point to remember her name.
-----
Diane wasn’t worried. The Evo would not be launched until mid-year. Diane was sure she could let the auditors work on the accounts without much trouble. She knew that all it needed was one mistake and it would cause her downfall. She would either have to persuade Andrew to pay for the car, or charge the expense to him unknowingly.
Either way, it was nowhere near illegal.
Somehow, she had a feeling that this move was essential to her survival.
-----
She stopped in her tracks. A dark figure was lurking near her car. Then she heard a high-pitched sound that made every hair on her pore stand. The familiar sound of fingernails scratching the blackboard. Diane darted towards her car. The unexpected stranger, sensing her presence, fled down the long and winding corridor. Diane chased after her.
Diane had to abandon the chase. Her three-inched heels proved to be a disadvantage. She could only watch as the unknown figure disappeared into the darkness.
Diane sighed. She inspected her car. Unsurprisingly, a deep, long, unsightly scratch was visible. The red car gave a soft beep as the headlights flashed. She reached for the door, her freshly manicured nails gleaming under the light. Then she halted. Diane whipped out her phone and started dialing the guardhouse.
Soon, she’ll find out the answer.
-----
She ran as fast as her legs could carry her. She was still clutching her keys. Her heart pounding at a rate she had never experienced before. She loosened a button and breathed deeply, attempting to clear her mind.
Did Diane see her? Is she still looking for her?
She paused and held her breath. The place was haunted with dead silence. No sounds of heels clicking against the gray tiles. No signs of anyone following her. She blended into the shadows.
-----
Diane made her way to the security room in the corner of the building, which no one would venture into. Hidden from the rest of the staff, only those who set it up knew of its existence. Diane had already informed the guards to look out for suspicious characters. She knew it would be hard; the building was also open to customers. The only place where she can get all her answers would be the security room.
She tapped her employee’s card on the reader and entered her unique pin. She pushed the door metal door open. The door swung back quickly and plunged her into total darkness. She ventured forward, felt for another depression on the wall in the darkness and slide the door open.
The security technician held his breath and stared at the monitors as Diane entered. Diane leaned towards the sea of monitors. When she suspected that information was being leaked out of the company, Diane set up the security room and had cameras cleverly hidden on every spot she could think of. The individuals were little worker ants being monitored. It worked instantly. She was able to eradicate the spies from the various departments and the problems ceased.
On the monitor transmitting from camera #17, the technician had skillfully frozen the frame.
“Can you lighten the contrast?” Diane asked as she squinted at the monitor. The technician did as he was told.
“Zoom in.” she instructed.
Diane had her answer.
-----
Alicia squeezed through the boxes of invoices and tiptoed her way to her little cubicle. The moment she touched the mouse, the desktop slurred from its slumber and she caught herself looking at her wallpaper. The eyes of the little boy from the photograph seemed to be winking at her; other than his brown eyes, he looked like the little actor from Harry Potter.
Alicia’s features softened as she looked at her only source of comfort.
She had been too impatient.
She clicked on an in conspicuous icon on her desktop. The image of an office filled the screen. She could hear and see everything Diane was up to by bribing the repairmen to install a camera hidden near the air-con and a transmitter in her penholder. There was no humming of the air-conditioner. Alicia grinned as the thought of Diane driving in her disfigured car crept in.
Revenge will be sweet. She had planned this for over a year.
She smiled as she counted down to her little surprise for Diane.
-----
Jason held the door open and offered his hand. The soft yellow lights of the Fullerton hotel greeted them as they are welcomed into the ballroom, where other members of the company are gathered. Diane’s ivory white gown caressed her smooth skin in contrast to the midnight-black hair locked in a French twist. The simple and plain style showed off her elegance. Her shoes glittered under the light as she took small steps to the table they were assigned to.
She deliberately brushed Andrew’s arm as they reached. His wife, Hui Xin was beside him, eyeing her every move like a hawk. She wore a black halter dress, and was frosted with diamond accessories. Andrew looked up, smiled, but immediately paled when he saw Jason beside her. Jason grinned proudly as he pulled a chair for Diane beside his father. As he sat down, Diane wrapped her arm round his, and leaned towards him.
It was too much for the other woman. Her fists were clenched; her knuckles were protruding in the most unnatural manner. Andrew, on sensing her hostility, tugged her dress. She shoved his arm aside and attempted to calm down. She stood up and in a commanding tone, addressed Diane.
“What do you want?” her tone firm, but escaped her lips as a soft whisper.
Diane wrapped her arms tighter round Jason and turned to him for help. His mother’s oppressing question was obviously directed at her.
Jason expected an adverse reaction. After all, his mother didn’t like Diane from the very moment she laid her eyes on her, much less to accept her as the woman that he has chosen. But he knew that his mother loved her pride – she will not do anything to either of them as long as the dinner was still proceeding. He asked Diane to the Dinner and Dance for two reasons. Firstly, if she accepted him as a date, it would mean that he was of importance to her. Secondly, he couldn’t think of another way to tell his parents that he love her. This would be more than a subtle hint.
For years he has tried to deny that he was felt something for his father’s new young accountant. She spoke music and wisdom, she taught him the arts and cultures; she showed him the wonders of science and the mysteries of nature. Whenever he visited his father in his office, Diane was there with her beautiful smile and would gently stroke his head and tell him what a fine young man he turned out to be. Of course, as years progressed, she could only lay her slender arm on his shoulder and acknowledge the man in front of her. Over the years he dated other girls, hoping to forget this enchantress.
But he could not.
He looked into the eyes of Diane. Unable to suppress himself further, he pressed his lips to hers and engaged in the kiss he’s been wanting to happen for years.
He felt the warmth of her lips and relished every single moment. When they parted, he whispered.
“This – is what I want.”
Everyone else stared rudely.
-----
The auditors didn’t arrive until after eleven, Diane greeted each and every one of them with enthusiasm, those she have seen before, as well as new faces straight out of school. It has been some time since she felt such light-hearted.
She walked them to the meeting room, a personal space for the auditors to work during this period. She was about to excuse herself from the room when Andrew appeared, followed by a few men in their thirties.
“Diane, this men would like a word with you.” Andrew said, and referred her to the men. He apologized to the auditors and excused himself.
As Diane walked through the carpeted corridors to her office, she attempted to strike a conversation with one of the men. He was, however, silent and kept a grim face.
Once in the privacy of her office, one of the men flashed their ID.
Commercial Affairs? She read quietly.
“What is this about?” she questioned. She looked at Andrew, who showed no sign of emotion.
The men briefly explained their intentions. They had received an unknown tip-off and received video and sound clippings about possible embezzlement of the company’s funds.
Alicia chuckled as she saw Andrew’s grim face. She cant wait for Diane to break down and beg for mercy, then she would appear and tell the rest that she had concrete evidence that Diane was plotting to misuse the funds. She would ruin Diane, the way Diane had ruined her husband and caused him to be thrown into prison. She would then be the heroine that saved the company from an inevitable disaster. Andrew would trust and promote her.
She played and re-played Diane’s conversation with Jason, as well as the tape recording of Diane and Andrew in their favorite restaurant. “Jason wants a new car. Is there anyway we can charge the Honda S2000 to the company’s expenses?” she laughed at this particular line. Soon, Diane will be out of sight, no longer contaminating the company with her presence.
Diane shrugged. “So what do you have against me?”
“Actually, we would require your assistance. Can we take a look at the records?” the man asked politely. “I have not properly introduced myself. I’m Inspector Lee.”
Alicia watched patiently as they poured through the books and photocopied things they needed. Some, they took with them, carefully labeled. The auditors were called in, and Alicia knew she was winning.
Diane stood beside Andrew, saying nothing. Her mind was fixed on the inspector’s words. “Video clippings?” she thought. From? The security room? Impossible. No one else knew about it except Andrew and herself. Would Andrew betray her? No. She decided. Andrew was in this as well. Besides, he didn’t know that Diane settled the accounts in a proper, legal way. He would not attempt to make his firm the joke of the media.
The phone on her office desk rang in with a shrill.
“Hello. Boss? I have something that may interest you. If you will, bring the authorities in as well.” The lab technician spoke quickly but clearly, obviously proud of himself.
Diane held onto the phone and wanted to call Andrew over, but the technician quickly warned. “Don’t say anything. Just come.”
As the group of people streamed out of the room, Alicia screamed. What’s wrong? What’s wrong! Arrest her!”
-----
A few monitors were fixed on a certain camera’s image. #04, it seems, took up a few monitors. Its images were in different frames, some enlarged, some brightened, some fixed. But a message was clear. A woman was in her little cubicle, staring at her computer screen, and her 17-inched screen unmistakably showed the image of Diane’s office.
She was obviously enjoying her game.
-----
Diane was glad Andrew offered to send her home. Everyone involved were brought in for questioning.
The police could find nothing to charge her.
Alicia, on the other hand was prosecuted for insider’s trading. And for scratching my car. Diane added. She remembered the last abuse hurled at her. “ You witch! You have taken everything from me. One day, you will lose these things and you will suffer a fate worse than mine.”
“Can you not hurt him?” Andrew asked, his eyes fixed on the road.
Diane thought of the proper words to say, and then she realized hypocrisy would not help here.
“I promise I won’t.”
-----
posted by The Fat One @ 20:09
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