Chapter Six

Elsie's POV

"I was sitting at my desk when I received a phone call from my aunt's doctor. The news was not good, my 50-year-old aunt, the only family I have, had cancer and was in critical condition at the hospital. Panic gripped me as I tried to hold back tears. How could this happen? I knew she wasn't well, but I never expected it to be cancer.

I knew I had to leave immediately and be with her, but I couldn't let anyone see me like this. I took a deep breath and tried to compose myself before leaving my office. I couldn't let my employees see my pain, my weakness.

As I walked through the hallway, I saw Jayden approaching me. He must have noticed the worried look on my face. "Ms Beckman, what's wrong? Is everything okay?" he asked with concern.

I appreciated his concern, but I couldn't show any weakness right now. "It's nothing," I said, trying to brush it off. "Just some personal matters that I need to take care of."

"I understand, but if you need anything, just let me know," he said, offering his help.

"Thanks, but I need to handle this on my own," I replied. I knew I had to go to the hospital alone.

Jayden nodded understandingly, but I could see the concern in his eyes. As I walked away, I couldn't help but feel grateful for his kindness. He was a good person, and I was lucky to have him on my team.

As I arrived at the hospital, I felt a wave of emotions washing over me. I was scared, worried, and anxious, but I had to be strong for my aunt. I went straight to her room, and as I saw her lying there, weak and helpless, my heart broke. She was the only family I had left, and I couldn't bear the thought of losing her.

I stayed with her all night, holding her hand and talking to her. I knew she couldn't hear me, but it made me feel better to talk to her. As the night turned into day, I knew I had to go back to work. I couldn't neglect my responsibilities as a CEO, but it was hard to leave my aunt behind.

As I left the hospital, I felt a weight on my shoulders, and the tears that I had been holding back started to fall. I was emotionally drained, but I couldn't let anyone see me like this. I wiped away my tears and took a deep breath before returning to my office.

*******************,,

Jayden's POV

The next few days were tough on all of us. Elsie's absence was felt all around the office, but we knew she needed her space. I couldn't stop thinking about her and her aunt. I wished there was something I could do to ease her pain.

Finally, after a week, Elsie returned to the office. She looked tired and drained, but her resolve was still unbroken. She called me into her office.

"Jayden, I wanted to thank you for everything you've done. I know I've been distant, but I appreciate your concern. It means a lot to me."

I could see the sadness in her eyes, and my heart went out to her. "I'm here for you, Ms Beckman, whatever you need."

She nodded. "There is something you can help me with. I need to take some time off to take care of my aunt. I don't want to leave the company unattended, and I was thinking that maybe you could take over while I'm gone."

I was taken aback. "Me? But I don't have the experience or the knowledge to run a company like this."

"Elsie smiled. "Don't sell yourself short, Jayden. You have more potential than you give yourself credit for. Plus, I'll be available for advice and guidance whenever you need it."

I felt a mixture of excitement and nervousness at the prospect of taking over. "I'll do my best, Elsie. Thank you for trusting me with this."

Elsie placed a hand on my shoulder. "I know you will. And I'll be back as soon as I can."

With that, she stood up and left the office. I sat there for a moment, letting everything sink in. I was honored that she chose me to take over, but I knew it was a huge responsibility.

Over the next few weeks, I worked closely with Elsie's team, getting to know everyone and familiarizing myself with the company's operations. I also made sure to keep in touch with Elsie and her aunt, checking in on them and offering any support I could.

Despite the pressure and the long hours, I found myself enjoying the challenge of running the company. And with each passing day, I gained more respect and admiration for Elsie and the hard work she put in to build this business.

When Elsie finally returned, I was relieved and happy to see her. She had a smile on her face, and her aura was more radiant than ever. "Thank you, Jayden. You did an excellent job."

I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment wash over me. "It was an honor to take over, Ms Beckman. I'm glad everything worked out."

We shared a brief moment of silence before Elsie spoke up. "There's something I need to tell you, Jayden."

I felt my heart skip a beat. "What is it?"

"Elsie took a deep breath. "My aunt's condition has worsened. The doctors don't think she has much time left."

I felt a lump form in my throat. "I'm so sorry, Elsie. Is there anything I can do?"

Elsie shook her head. "No, it's okay. I just wanted you to know. And I wanted to thank you again for everything you've done for me and for the company. You've proven yourself to be a valuable asset, and I hope you'll continue to be a part of this team."

I nodded, feeling a surge of emotion. "Of course, Ms Beckman. I'll always be here for you."

With that, Elsie smiled and left the office. As I sat there, reflecting on everything that had happened,