We were told by our boss that it was an easy and simple business trip.

  But oh man, he couldn't be more wrong.

  What began as a simple business trip ended up paving the way for the chaos that this city would never forget.

  Here at our company H&H (Haven & Hue), the founder had this specific motto of bringing the essence of their roots into the celebration. Especially our hometown marriages are quite famous. As a result, trips became common in our line of work. Yet they’re more work than fun, but a paycheck makes it worthwhile because the company pays you more for fieldwork.

  Me being the money-driven person, would never overlook this fact. But why am I recalling these simple chunks of information?

  It is because that's how it all began. The story of two employees—one being me, and the other Nina Hales.

  Talking about Nina, she was the star of our agency in every literal sense. She is that confident yet kind-hearted person, whose very presence could light up any room she walks into. And if this wasn't good enough, God also gave her this deadly combination of a sharp mind with her soft looks. A rare phenomenon that enables her to take the heart of any man she desires.

  Her soft wavy hair, that beautiful face with no flaw, and those impossibly captivating eyes of hers—eyes with this beautiful shade that lies somewhere between blue and green. The margin seems to be so thin that sometimes they were blue, other times they were green. Those eyes are enough to keep you guessing.

  Why do I sound like some fanboy right now?

  She isn't that good. Even I am hot and beautiful—let's just say I am a fully grown and confident woman, and there is no competition between us. Especially not when it comes to assets, no doubt mine is bigger.

  This narrative has been purloined without the author's approval. Report any appearances on Amazon.

  But here is the thing about Nina Hales—even if you tell yourself she is not your competition, some part of you still wonders if you could ever win against her.

  But keeping those insecurities buried, on the surface, I pretend to be this positive, helpful, always smiling, and kind person at work. Just like a side character, I don’t stand out much. And honestly, I don’t really need to.

  The work culture here is pretty good, especially when you compare it to other companies around. However, the company doesn't have many female workers, it's just four of us. After all, the company is still young, barely two years old.

  But what made the company stand out is the concept it’s built on. The idea resonated with a lot of people, resulting in a constant flow of requests coming in. Mostly for small events, but sometimes big events.

  Just like today, Mr. Lennox, the owner of this well-known food chain, has reached out to us for arranging his sister's 16th birthday party. They don't want a big celebration, but the party has to be special and memorable for them.

  Since this project could become a great chance for the company to widen its customer base, my boss has been extra cautious this time. You see, usually just one or two employees are assigned to an event, but for this one, he decided to send three of us to make sure everything goes perfectly.

  But since Mr. Lennox had this one special request—he wanted female employees only. I guess he’s a little protective of his younger sister. Honestly, I didn’t mind; it was thanks to his request that I got chosen to go.

  Two days later, the day finally arrived when we were supposed to leave for the mansion of Mr. Lennox. They have this beautiful house built in the countryside.

  It was 6 in the morning, I was waiting in front of my apartment for the taxi to come. I should have booked it earlier, but I often overestimate my abilities. Luckily, I am not too late thanks to Nina’s call reminding me to grab the files. I just hope she never finds out that her call is what actually woke me up.

  At least I had my bag packed (I keep a spare bag packed at all times) so there wasn't much work. Still, getting up late and all that morning rush, I wasn't able to eat anything. How typical of me.

  My life sucks, but just as I was about to kick my bag to ease my frustration, the taxi arrived. Finally, I felt a little relaxed. I wasted no time and slid into the seat.

  The car started toward the airport, and for a moment, I turned to glance back at my apartment. While the taxi was moving forward, I saw a cat lying near the road. She wasn't sleeping—instead, she was dead.