Chapter 21: Chapter 21: Termination of contract
The call dropped but I still sat with my phone to my ear and my mouth ajar.
He said he'd brief me the details when we meet and I chose a breakfast cafe because I planned to head there anyway.
I quickly jumped out of bed and hurriedly got dressed, all the while trying to recall the absurdity of the entire situation.
How in the world does anyone sign such a contract at a Hospital?! I just couldn't understand but my mind kept trying to play it cool. Maybe it's a prank call. At this point I'm open to literally any idea!
I arrived at the cafe and I was shocked to see a young man looking extremely sharp in a tux waiting for me.
"I'm glad you could come, please have your seat" He said and adjusted his rimless glasses. He looked refined and professional but this only made my heart beat faster. So it wasn't a prank call?
I really signed a contract to be some Princess babysitter!
"Please go ahead" I spoke lightly as I took my seat, the whole thing was crazy as it is, all I wanted was to get this over with and go about my real job!
"Sure, I'll be brief"
He dropped the contract on the table and my eyes rested on them.
"The contract you signed was drafted for someone else, there was an error in transit which is a fault on our path and so we will compensate you accordingly but the clause remains the same. You have become Princess Isla's babysitter -"
"Hold on… I don't need any compensation just get rid of the contract, I didn't consent to it" I thought my words were enough so I took a slight bow and bid my goodbyes "I'll be off then"
"We can't do that" His voice suddenly halted my movements. "Please take a seat" He added "You haven't ordered anything"
I sat back reluctantly, I promised myself I wouldn't skip meals so I ordered some traditional Mexican dish and decided to enjoy my meal, regardless of what he says my mind is made up! I won't be taking that job!
But of course, my mental decision didn't stop him from explaining further.
"Apart from being Princess Isla's caregiver, there's something else you should know"
I raised my head to hear what he had to say but his words almost blocked my windpipe with a mouthful of Tackos!
"The contract has a very important clause that you must adhere to. As well as being Princess Isla's caregiver, you also have to work in her Father's company to the role he assigns you. I'm speaking of the person of Prince Theodore"
Before his words landed I was in need of a glass of water and a napkin to help curb my coughing fit.
It's hilarious to know the man still had a straight face while passing me an handkerchief. Isn't any of these funny to him? Because it definitely is to me!
I already have a lot going on, adding a job as demanding as this was not part of my plans. For the love of God why does the universe keeps screwing me over?!
I heard him speak again and I listened with a bemused expression.
"I'm only telling you this because you already signed the contract which includes confidentiality responsibilities. No one aside the Royal Family knows of Prince Theodore's daughter and even his title as a prince is not disclosed"
Then why was he telling me?! This is driving me nuts! I wanted to lash out in annoyance but I withheld myself. He was just a spokesman following orders.
"Look Mister, I already made it clear, I can't do this work, I'm already occupied. Thank you for your time"
I was done eating so this should be my cue to leave but my butt stayed glued to the chair after he spoke again.
"Termination of contract from Party B is a fine of one billion dollars"
Every time he opens his mouth he makes it worse! I took a deep breath to soothe my raging nerves. Did I wake up on the wrong side of the bed this morning? Why is everything going south for me?
I was about to speak when he added "Your monthly salary is a million dollars"
My figure stiffened in shock and my eyes significantly dilated from disbelief.
A million freaking dollars?! Unbelievable! Should I just deem him to be a scam? This makes no sense!
"Please reconsider, here's the address and your access code. If you decide to see it through, resume work tomorrow at noon. I'll take my leave first" He stood and left and I held the card in my hand while my consciousness remained nestled in shock.
[What if it's a trap?]
C'mon, who would go to such lengths to trap me? It's not like I have the map to a treasure chest, I'm not that valued.
I left the cafe and kept the card, I'll have to think about it carefully before I decide, not like I have much of a choice!
Some time later I arrived at Jade Pavilion. Suzy home schools so I don't have to participate in school run, just home recreational lessons and Funtime.
The maids informed me that Sebastian usually comes home early because of Suzy so I was anticipating his return while I teaching her the basis of painting, like practically how to hold a brush and paint shapes.
I won't lie, it hasn't been easy but she's a fast learner so I'm relieved.
"Sir Sebastian is back" A maid announced and I breathed internally. Finally!
I turned to Suzy and said "Remember what we practiced?" She nodded a response and I smiled.
I felt a pang of guilt hit me for using her for my plans but when I remember what is at stake, I can't help but feel my case is more pitiful.
Where do I get the luxury to worry about others when a massive clock is literally ticking towards my death?!
So I'm sorry if I have to use you, Suzy but I'm cornered like a wounded lion. I'll do anything to survive this hellhole, I'll use anyone if I have to.
It's fine if you resent me, I don't like me either but I selfishly hope you don't.
[You're overthinking this, it's just a festival! Why would Suzy resent you? Get your act together! Otherwise, we both die!]
Right!