Chapter 16: Action Speaks

Stan knew he can't just confront Fred for all the allegations he said against Tess, since he left the country immediately and never investigated the matter. So when he came back he didn't want to relate with Fred on one like before: he avoided the guy and got his International director to relate with most of his staff while he related with the director. From what he heard Fred was a hard worker so he shouldn't use personal matters to destroy business. If Fred is a good worker, he should be a good guy too. For all that is worth, his leaving the country has turned out to be a good step for him because his director is doing a very good job with his company under him. It was this same director, that has encouraged him to dive into other businesses. This is why he considered buying the hotel where Tess is working. yes, the hotel is a good deal and not because Tess is working there, and he wants to keep an eye on her, no it's because it's good business. A smile crossed his face as he thought of the night he saw Tess again, but the smile soon turned to a frown. 'Something is not right' Stan thought, Tess doesn't look happy as he expected her to be. The light in her eyes was not there anymore. He remembered her surprised face when she saw him, it was not of surprise but much pain as if he had done something wrong to her, while it was her who did him wrong. Stan knew it is beneath him to confront Fred openly, and he then thought of another plan. He will get a private investor to help him get to the bottom of this. He felt bad he didn't do this in the beginning. It was because he was so hurt, and didn't want Tess to fail the test like the other one. Oh God, do I really want to do this? Stan knew he had to get to the bottom of this if he must truly go forward and heal completely. Yes, I will do this for my peace of mind and heart, and with his mind made up, he went ahead and made the call.

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Tess was wondering if Stan will ever visit the hotel again, but prayed he won't for her sake. Things have gone back to normal for her as she does her normal responsibilities. There was no more fear, checking out every customer before she came out to take orders. Whenever her supervisor says we are having a special guest, she is not afraid again. yes, things have gone back to normal.

Then Katie came in looking all flustered "Have you heard?", Tess was feeling bored earlier "Heard what?" she asked longing for an answer, "The hotel has been bought over" Katie said looking all worried, "what? Why, was there any problem?" Tess asked with surprise, "Not that I know of, we are doing well and making a profit, I just think the owners wanted to retire and decided to sell" Katie explained. "Okay, it's understandable since the owners didn't have an heir to give the hotel to," Tess said trying to understand what her friend was saying. Katie was frowning as she continued speaking, " Tess, please remember this is classified information. So no telling other staff until the director decides to address all of us. Okay, because Nobody is supposed to know except the directors and supervisors, and since one of the directors is a friend, he told me" she added. "So who are the new owners of the hotel and when are we meeting our new boss?" Tess asked. Katie looked Tess straight in the eyes and said, "Do you remember the special guest you attended some weeks back" Katie asked the funny way. Tess was still trying to think who this special guest was when Katie said, "The one who gave you a tip of $1000". Tess's eyes grew large with surprise and fear, as it dawned on her who this special guest was because only one person has given her a tip of $1000, " oh god, Stan?" Tess said as she covered her mouth in disbelief Katie, looked at her sadly "yes Tess Stan is our new boss".