It was 9pm when Esther boarded the private plane to Diamond City. The SARS line—one of her airlines, although not such a big hit - was still working and running perfectly, earning a name in the top fifteen best airlines in the country. Although she wasn't in the airline's field—she had to put herself in it for the purpose of convenience. Just like now—where she didn't have to worry when planning to travel.
As she settled into her seat, she pulled out the company's documents and began reviewing the things her company dealt with. Over the past years—the Shalom Technology had successfully made it way to the top best company, which dealt in the field of cosmetics. Their latest emollient —Sunkiss Demulcent - had become a famous and used cream in the country because of its benefits when applied. It not only improves facial appearance but also leaves the skin glowing and shining. It makes the skin tender, smooth, and acne-free and gives it a sun-kissed look. It has now become the popularly used cosmetic in the marketing business—making a lot of high and ranked companies desperate for cooperation.
As she scanned the list of companies that had expressed interest in collaborating with Shalom Technology, her eyes dimmed when she saw the name attached next to the list of companies. It was the Shadowy Mojave, one of the companies owned by the Clay family and handled by Nora's step-aunt, and her cruel cousin who had seduced Nora's boyfriend— of three years. Although Steven didn't sound impressive—don't be fooled by it. He is the third son to the Bones family of Waterside City, a two-tier city known for its dark alleys and corrupt officials.
A cruel smile spread across her face as she thought about the company's past records. She remembered the last time she saw the disgusting faces of Nora's family members. "How shameless can you be Nora—is Snow, not like a sister to you. Can't you sacrifice for the family. So what if Snow plagiarised your work—can't you give her the credit. After all, you belong to the Clay family and you, the daughter and part of the managerial," Zenobia reprimanded —her voice filled with rebuke and hostility. Her eyes seemed to bore into Nora's soul, as if daring her to defy her.
Esther's eyes narrowed as she recalled Nora's response. "But aunt—I killed myself while working on this project with no sleep or rest while Snow went partying, shopping, and socialising with friends. It was through this project that I planned to prove myself to my family—and Snow stole my work and submitted it to the judges. Should I just keep quiet and endure everything. What of the news accumulating of me plagiarising Snow's work." Nora's voice had trembled with emotion, her eyes welling up with tears.
Zenobia's response was swift and merciless. "So what Nora? Sleep and rest you can enjoy this now and as for the news and rumours we can silence it. But what of my daughter —we are not as rich as your family. And Snow is the only daughter I have—would you want to ruin her reputation by reporting it to the higher ups. Do you want to see her suffer." Her words were laced with venom, and Esther could almost feel the malice emanating from her.
Nora, being so understanding, nodded a no—after all they were family. And although she didn't get this time—she had a next time to prove herself. But what of Snow who didn't have enough funding—reporting her would ruin her and her career. It was only a matter of time—and more research - "I understand." Nora softly replied—a small smile on her face. With that, Zenobia hugged Nora before saying. "Let's have dinner—it has been long since we sat as a family to enjoy a pleasant meal." The insincerity in her voice was palpable.
Ever since that day—Nora had been forced to write works for Snow to submit to companies, and so on. Because of this—Nora was considered the useless child of the Clay family, thereby leading her to a Nameless status in society. Esther's face twisted in disgust as she crumpled the paper. It was better she didn't waste her time reading someone's work submitted as theirs. She tossed the paper aside, her mind already made up.
As the plane took off, Esther leaned back in her seat, her eyes fixed on the window. She could feel the engines roaring to life, and the plane began to ascend into the night sky. The stars twinkled like diamonds against the dark canvas, and Esther felt a sense of determination wash over her. She would make sure that the Clay family paid for their cruelty, and Nora would finally get the justice she deserved.
***
Finally, the plane landed —making the hour-long journey come to a complete halt. In the airport —a sleek black Lamborghini waited for her with several more of the limited edition car, which followed suit. The sound of the plane's engines died down, and the silence was a welcome respite from the hum of the aircraft.
As soon as Esther walked out—as Lilith Lee was in her wolf mask and kimono dress. The soft rustle of the fabric was the only sound she made as she moved. She was greeted by the staff and guards before she was escorted to the car. The guards stood at attention, their faces expressionless, as they opened the car door for her.
"Where to Miss. Lee. The Royal Blue Hotel or the Azure Villa.?" The driver asked– respect laced in his tone. Although he was far older than Esther, with such high position, he considered himself as a fly. His voice was smooth and professional, with a hint of deference.
"Take me to the Royal Blue Hotel. It is much closer to the company." Esther's voice was firm and decisive. "Okay." The driver stepped on the brakes—bringing the car to life. The once immobile-looking car disappeared into the dark mist, leaving all traces of spark behind.
The car glided smoothly through the night, the engine purring softly. Esther sat back in her seat, her eyes fixed on the road ahead. The city lights blurred together as they sped by, a colorful blur of neon and steel. The Royal Blue Hotel was her destination, and she was eager to get there and start her plan in motion.
As the car moved through the city, Esther's mind was already racing ahead to the meeting with the company representatives. She had a strategy in place, and she was confident that it would work. .