After the strange events of Chapter One, life seemed normal again—until an unexpected promotion changes everything…
It was the first Monday of May, 2014. The office buzzed with the usual morning energy, but something felt different. Stan, the managing director, and the Boss had made a pivotal decision: a new branch of the company would open in a town approximately 80 kilometers from the city. And the man entrusted with this significant responsibility? Smith.
Smith had always been dependable. To the Boss, he was like a younger brother—loyal, hardworking, and resilient. So, when the time came to assign someone for the new branch, the decision was easy.
As Smith entered the office that morning, he was greeted by the Boss with an unusually cheerful demeanor. "Good morning, Smith! Today, we have some great news for you. You're going to be the manager of our new branch."
Smith raised an eyebrow, half-smiling. "Really? Is that true, or is this another one of your jokes like last time?"
"No, no, it's real this time," the Boss chuckled. "Let me show you the video of the meeting I had with the director."
Stan stepped in, confirming the news. "Yes, it's about 80 kilometers from here, and the director has personally approved your appointment."
Smith blinked in disbelief. Before he could respond, one of his colleagues, grinning, chimed in. "Man, I'm jealous! It took me seven years to become a manager, and here you are, achieving it in just three. Elders were right—hard work really does pay off. Pack your bags, Smith!"
Smith hesitated. "Sir, I can't just leave suddenly. I have to discuss this with my wife, and I need transfer certificates for my children. My wife is very particular about their education."
The Boss waved off his concerns. "No worries. I've already spoken to my friend about your kids. There's a school called Global International School near the new location. Also, your wife will have a house help to assist her."
Smith nodded, still processing. "Thank you, sir, but I'd still like to talk to my wife."
Stan laughed. "He's a true family man! Everyone, learn from him." Then, in a teasing tone, he added, "Go pack your things and don't return until you've made your dream come true!"
Smith smiled. "Sir, I truly appreciate this opportunity. I'll never forget what you've done for me."
He left the office that day, collecting his belongings and bidding farewell to his colleagues.
At home, Smith knocked on the door. Julie, his wife, rushed to answer it. "How many times do I have to tell you? Don't knock so hard. Just use the spare key!" she scolded.
"Sorry, my bad," he said gently. Calming Julie quickly was something he'd learned from his Uncle June—a trick that always worked.
Later that evening, Smith broke the news. "The branch is far from the city. Laura and Jack are very attached to our neighborhood. They might not take this move well. You'll have to talk to them."
Julie sighed. "Let me think... Maybe we can persuade them with gifts they've wanted for a long time."
Smith nodded. "Like what?"
"Jack wanted a drawing book, a table, or a remote-control car. Laura's been asking for a new dress or an iPod," she replied.
"Alright, an iPod and a drawing set it is. That should do the trick."
As Julie left to run errands, she paused. "Where are we staying, by the way? Did you ask your Boss?"
Smith recalled the conversation. "He mentioned a friend but got distracted before giving details. I'll call him now."
The Boss didn't answer. Just then, Smith's phone rang. It was Tony, his childhood friend.
"Hey, Smith. Heard you're getting transferred to some village?" Tony asked in a low, serious voice.
"Yeah, why? Everything alright?"
Tony hesitated. "Meet me at our usual spot tonight. Don't tell anyone. Not even your wife."
Smith hung up, puzzled. "Julie, Tony's feeling unwell. I'm heading out for dinner with him," he lied gently.
A few minutes later, Smith received a message from his Boss—a phone number for Robert, an agent in Monte Cristo. He called the number.
"Hello, this is Robert. How may I help you?"
"Hi, I'm Smith. My boss gave me your number about a house in Monte Cristo."
There was a pause.
"Yes, sir. When do you plan to visit? Please call me before you arrive."
"I might come tomorrow evening or the day after. How's the area? The people?"
"No worries, sir. You'll feel at home here. And the school your boss mentioned is right near the house."
"Alright. Where should I meet you?"
"Call me once you reach the town entrance."
"Got it. Thank you, Robert."
As he ended the call, Smith couldn't shake the feeling that something unusual was unfolding—a strange tension lingering in the air. What was Tony trying to warn him about?
The new journey had only just begun.