Chapter 3 — From Invisible to Indispensable
Daniel stared at her, utterly speechless. James Harlow let out a low whistle from the corner of the room.
"You?" Daniel breathed. "The 'Ghost Analyst' who flagged the offshore irregularities in our European tech sector? That was you?"
"I have a degree in forensic accounting from Boston University, Mr. Mercer," Clara explained, a faint, dry smile touching her lips. "But when my mother fell ill four years ago, the medical bills required immediate, steady cash. Your estate offered top-tier domestic wages and a comprehensive health plan. I took the job because I needed the security. I stayed because... well, because your corporate accounting practices were fascinatingly corrupt, and you were too blind to see it."
Daniel let out a sharp, genuine laugh—the first real sound of mirth he had made in weeks. "I suppose I deserved that."
"You did," Clara agreed candidly.
"Well, the domestic contract is officially null and void," Daniel said, leaning against the edge of his desk, his gaze locked onto her.
"Effective immediately, you are the Senior Executive Auditor of Mercer Global. Your salary quadruples, you get an office on the top floor of the corporate tower, and you will report directly to me. No more aprons, Clara. No more being invisible."
Clara looked at the silver tray she had just brought in, then back at Daniel. "And who is going to make sure your tea isn't steeped for too long?"
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"I’ll learn to drink it bitter," Daniel smiled. "What do you say?"
Clara extended her hand. Her fingers were small but her grip was firm, forged from years of hard work and quiet resilience. "I say we have a board meeting to prepare for, Mr. Mercer. Julian Vance thinks he’s about to launch a hostile takeover tomorrow morning. I think it’s time we rewrite his itinerary."
