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Behind D Mask

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Synopsis
Selene Javis thought landing a job at Skype—the world’s most breathtaking tech empire—was the start of her dream. But when the charming and ruthless CEO Jacob Gerard takes a sudden interest in her, she’s pulled into a glamorous world laced with secrets, seduction, and power plays. Jacob is dangerous, but Selene soon learns someone else is watching from the shadows. A masked man—always steps ahead, always cloaked in mystery—begins to appear in her life. Sometimes a thief, sometimes an ally, he holds the key to a deadly past: a father’s murder, a stolen legacy, and a company built on blood. As Selene is caught between two powerful forces—one she’s drawn to, the other she fears—she must uncover the truth behind the mask. But in a world where identities shift like shadows and loyalty is a weapon, falling in love may be the most dangerous choice of all. How do you love someone you’ve never seen… but who sees everything?
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Chapter 1 - CHAPTER I:PART 1—A New Arising

The morning sun illuminated the bustling city where business was the norm, rumors and clamors filled the air as individuals crossed paths. Some strolled solo while others engaged in lively interactions, creating a cacophony on the streets. The taxi drivers drove steadily, their eyes scanning for potential passengers in need of a ride.

From within a dusty room overlooking the busy street, a scene of turmoil unfolded, resembling an intense argument. A man emerged from the room, clad in a crisply ironed suit, sporting polished shoes, a pair of glasses, and a wristwatch. Adjusting his vibrant tie, he searched the room for his briefcase, his expression a mix of anger and contemplation. Known as Sir Ferinard, he held a high-ranking position at Grotel, a globally renowned organization esteemed for its exceptional security services. Despite his competence, his lack of recent promotions left his colleagues puzzled.

Seated on a fiber cushion nearby was a middle-aged woman accompanied by a young girl, likely his wife, Mrs. Walter. Dressed in jersey shorts and a cotton top, she tenderly attempted to soothe his agitation, her arms gently embracing him. "Dear, we must consider Selene's best interests in her job search. Repeated rejections can be disheartening, and we must support her through this challenging period,"she implored.

Adjusting his posture, Sir Ferinard continued the discussion, his gaze carefully scanning the room for the elusive black briefcase.

He adjusts in his seat and continues his conversation, his eyes scanning the room attentively for any sign of a black briefcase. "Alright, this time I will attempt to connect with her on Skype and assess the potential outcome. I hope she doesn't face rejection again; she has been seeking employment at several companies for quite some time without meeting the qualifications,"he muses.

Selene, a young woman in her early twenties with blonde hair styled in braids, clad in leggings, an oversized cardigan, and a short skirt, moves closer to the window, seemingly disinterested in the ongoing conversation. Leaning against the window, she observes the bustling activity on the streets, adjusting her cardigan delicately to prevent it from slipping off. Lost in her thoughts, she watches the street below until her attention is abruptly diverted by a taxi driver who narrowly misses hitting a raven scavenging for breadcrumbs. Though she cannot hear his words, she can discern his frustration from his animated gestures directed at the bird.

Meanwhile, Joe, her eight-year-old brother, rushes into the room with a ball covered in dirt. He kicks it down the stairs and excitedly approaches his sister. "Let me see... what are you looking at, sis?"he exclaims, extending his hand towards her and bouncing with enthusiasm. Unaware of his presence due to her distraction, Selene's parents engrossed in their conversation, Joe devises a mischievous plan. Quietly sneaking up behind Selene, he attempts to untie her hair braids while standing on a small stool nearby. Slowly turning her head towards him, Selene acknowledges his antics with a tired smile.

"Let me see...let me see.. what are you gazing at, sister!"he exclaimed as he extended his palm towards his sister, leaping as high as he could. However, Selene was engrossed in the scene outside the window, and his parents were deeply immersed in conversation. After a moment of contemplation, an idea dawned on him. He maneuvered behind Selene and endeavored to loosen her hair tie, perching on a dressing stool beside her. She turned her head sluggishly towards him.

"Come on, Joe, what's the matter?""I am curious to see what has captured your attention out there; you appear rather pale,"he said with a smile that seemed to uplift Selene's spirits slightly, coaxing a grin from her in return. She hoisted him up and guided his fingers to point at various objects on the street."What is that, Joe? What kind of court is that?"she inquired mischievously."Hmm... give me a moment,"he mused intently before a spark of realization lit up his face. "That appears to be an open volleyball court,"he responded, hopeful of his accuracy."Yes, indeed. And what about the one over there?""Which one?"he retorted, as if reluctant to entertain further queries. He scrambled for an excuse, as his initial intention of seeking her distraction now seemed futile."The one along the rails downtown... What is it called?""Hmm... allow me a moment to contemplate,"he said, placing a finger to his lips.She erupted in laughter as she gently lowered him to the floor, his countenance appearing unsteady."You are quite amusing, Joe. Calculations are not necessary for such a simple answer."

"Dad claims that all solutions requires calculations. Isn't that correct, Dad?"he remarked, glancing towards their parents, who were concluding their conversation with an embrace, oblivious to Joe's inquiry. Selene diverted his attention back.

."You have yet to respond to my query, dear brother. Are your calculations that intricate?"He gazed at her, smiled, and embraced her, whispering softly in her ear."I am clueless; you are older than me, so you should possess the answer, right?."

"Such a jocular boy! Come, let us prepare for breakfast. You must be famished after frolicking with Biden and Sarah outside,"she remarked.

"..... very well Selene, let us prepare ourselves,"Sir Ferinard interjected, appearing confused as Miss Walter descended the stairs to attend to the family's meal. "By the way, has anyone come across my briefcase? I am puzzled as to how it managed to disappear from my...."

"I placed it in your car downstairs,"Joe innocently replied, meeting Sir Ferinard's gaze. The father approached his son, stooping down to his level and tousling his blonde hair, already stained with mud.

"Joe, my son, why did you not inform me sooner? You had me quite concerned. I cherish you deeply, and please ensure you...."Sir Ferinard paused, detecting an unpleasant odor as he inspected his son. "....is that a banana peel clinging to your shoe? Hm...you must have picked it up from the streets."

"Yes, I did, and I nearly slipped while doing so. I told Biden not to discard it at our playground, but he ignored me".Joe explained.

"Very well, young man, go freshen up. We shall journey to my workplace together. How does that sound to you?"

"Yayyyy...,"Joe exclaimed, brimming with joy as he hurried off to comply.

Sir Ferinard glanced at his daughter, feeling a pang of sympathy for her, wishing things had not unfolded in this manner for his lovely daughter. He resolved to uplift her spirits.

"Hello, sweetheart, how are you feeling?"

"I am well, father,"she replied, her gaze fixed on the street. "It is just that everyone appears engrossed in their occupations on the streets, and I am finding it challenging to secure one easily. I...I am at a loss for words or actions."

Drawing nearer, Sir Ferinard placed a comforting hand on her shoulder to capture her attention. "It is alright, my dear. Everything will work out. I am confident that Skype will be able to assist you in securing a job. Do you trust me?"

"Very well."

"Good girl. Let us proceed to have breakfast and address matters together, shall we?"

"Okay,"she responded with a smile.

They descended the stairs together, and as Miss Walter winked at Selene from the kitchen's rear door, she knew her mother required her assistance, joining hands in the chores.

"What did your father say?"Selene's mother inquired as Selene assisted in washing, cleaning, and arranging the dishes.

"Nothing much...he simply offered words of encouragement as usual."

"You know everything will turn out fine, don't you?"

"Yeah I know".

"Good just keep faith and you shall have your job...what of Jacob?"

"You mean the recent gentleman who assisted me with a ride to try out the last job I applied for?"she inquires, attempting to suppress any positive emotions.

"Yes, dear."

"He is pleasant; he mentioned he plans to visit today, but I informed him of my unavailability."

"Oh dear, why not consider his offer? He is striving to assist you, given that he is employed at the largest company in the city. Have you any notion of the magnitude of his potential salary?"

"Well, at least that's where I aim to secure a job as well."

"With him, you stand a greater chance of securing the position; he is on the verge of becoming the CEO. Why not give him a chance?"

"Indeed, but it's only a temporary position."

"Nevertheless, give it a try."

"Alright, Mom, if you say so, I will try to speak with him."

"Excellent, let's go have breakfast,"she suggests as they set the table, while Joe rushes to take a seat. The table is set with dishes and desserts when the doorbell rings; Selene rises to answer it.

"Enjoy your meal, sweetheart, I'll get it,"he interjects as he heads to the door.

"Okay, Dad."

Turning the doorknob, he spots a youthful middle-aged man clad in a blue suit with curly hair and dark eyes. His two robust bodyguards prompt Sir Ferinard to consider the man's significance. He blushes upon seeing Sir Ferinard and extends a handshake.

"Good day, Sir Ferinard, I believe this is not our initial encounter, correct?"he says with a smile.

"Yes,"accepting the handshake as they converse, "...you must be Jacob Gerard, if I am not mistaken."

"Yes, and I presume you will not be home for long based on your attire."

"Yes, I have matters to attend to; please come in and join us for our meal."

"I would be delighted."

He follows, signaling for his guards to secure the premises, including the neatly parked Lamborghini Gallardo and other luxurious vehicles they arrived in.

"Welcome, Jacob,"Selene greets, momentarily averting her gaze.

"Thank you, my lady Selene,"he replies with a smile, adjusting his stride, exchanging pleasantries with Mrs. Walter, and walking gracefully.

"My lady... what a remarkable individual,"she murmurs to herself.

"Good morning, sir,"Joe greets.

"Morning, young man, what is your name?"he inquires.

"My name is Joe."

"Pleasure to meet you, Joe; I look forward to spending time with you later,"he says with a smile.

"I am always available,"Joe responds confidently.

"Good lad."

"So, did you come all the way from Skype for a visit, or...?"Sir Ferinard questions, doubting that could be the main purpose of his visit, offering him a seat beside Selene, who appears uneasy.

"Yes and no, Miss Selene and I have been friends for some time since I met her at the park and offered her a lift,"he pauses as Mrs. Walter serves him, pouring a cup of coffee. "Thank you, ma'am."

"You're welcome, dear,"she replies.

"So...,"he continues, "I thought since she is in need of a job, she should feel free to work at our company, Skype. I can assist her in securing a Besides, Skype always need a personnel."

"That is very kind of you, my dear,"Mrs. Walter remarks, exchanging glances with Selene, who seems preoccupied with her meal and listening.

"Thank you, ma'am."

"I appreciate your generous offer, Jacob. We were actually planning to bring Selene to your company for the job today, as our previous attempts have been unsuccessful."

"I see; she may also have the opportunity to choose the department she wishes to work in,"he says, exchanging glances with Selene.

"I find it appeasing so I really appreciate it,so Selene what do you have to say about it?Is it fine by you?".He said as Selene froze while drinking her coffee.

"Huhhhhh....it's fine,I'm okay with the offer if it's gonna work out".she replied as she continues with her meal.

"Of course it's gonna work out"Jacob says as he cuts off a piece of meat and puts it slowly into his mouth,gazing at Selene and almost admiring her beauty.

"Alright then I guess things are settled and works out wel..."sir ferinard pauses as he got alarmed by his mobile phone vibration,it was a call.".....am so sorry I have to take this call".he says as he moves toward the sitting room.