billion book
Above the mark
Chapter 31 Above the mark
X&J EMPIRE, NEW YORK. “I can’t believe this! How did we get here in barely three weeks?” Xander asked as he stared at the sales report in awe. Jace had a full-blown smile on his face. “I am just as shocked as you are. Not only did we top the market, but we also went above our mark. You would think someone jazzed them in some way. Everyone is going really into it in the market. We have to make more production. There is so much traffic on the website because of those ordering online. I must say, Nina is a walking money machine.” Xander held up a complete, proud grin. “Believe me whenever I say I know what I am doing. Give me a moment.” He said, picking up the table phone. “Yes, Lisa. Get me the head researcher for the food department, Miss Ruiz.” “Right away, sir,” Lisa replied. “This is the first time I have seen you look this happy,” Jace commented. He shrugged. “I can’t help it. Nina is making me proud.” Nina’s entry brought their conversation to a halt. “Hi, you called for me.” Jace stood up, clapping his hands. “Here comes our star of the moment.” Xander joined in, keeping his eyes on Nina. “Come on in. You have the floor to yourself, mama.” Nina blushed profusely; everyone seemed to be celebrating her everywhere she turned. “Thank you guys. It is too much.” “There is nothing too much for you. You deserve a raise, a vacation, and everything beautiful to enjoy. You have made us all proud.” Said Xander. Jace phone beeped; he checked the screen and smacked his lips. “I think I should leave you two to it right now. I will see you later. Here, baby.” He raised his hand for a high five. Nina giggled at it. “You are doing amazingly well. See you later, bro.” “Come on now, take a seat.” Xander urged when they were left alone. Nina did as told. “So tell me, how are you feeling?” She huffed, flexing her arms. “Just glad. Most importantly, I am delighted that your trust in me didn’t go to waste. Thank you.” “I have some news. I am not sure if you would like to hear it.” “Try me.” “M&M food is third on the line as we speak. DDFoods made something close to their products, and their marketing strategy is the reason behind their massive sales. I checked it, and I must commend them for a job well done. That is why I would like us to adopt a brilliant marketing plan. And I believe you can get that done by working closely with the team. What do you say?” “I am all open to that,” Nina replied. Even though she tries hard not to show it, knowing that M&M is experiencing a decline makes her so happy. “Nina, I hope the workload is not too much. Sometimes I forget that you are pregnant.” “Come on, this is my job. I should have no excuse for doing the needful. With Carla, I don’t even have to pick up anything. She is just as amazing as you described.” “I am glad you like her. However, I do miss her nagging now and then. But I bet she is more relaxed at yours than mine.” Xander noticed her shift in the chair, holding up a faint frown. “How is the baby doing? Have you gone for your checkup?” He asked, looking worried all of a sudden. Nina noticed his countenance and laughed. “Why do you look so serious? I am fine. I just felt some movement in my lower belly, that’s all.” “Are you sure?” “Very sure.” “Let me know if you ever need anything. Please do not hesitate.” “Yes, boss.” She chuckled. “I should head back to my desk. I have some emails to look into.” “Alright then.” He cleared his throat, stopping her on track. “Wait, Nina-Ahn…Do you mind having dinner with me? Any restaurant of your choice. To celebrate the occasion.” “I won’t be available. I already promised to have dinner with my team tonight. It’s been long overdue. Sorry.” Xander seemed a bit disappointed, but he waved it off. “It’s alright. I wanted to ask if they know you are pregnant.” “It’s tough to tell because of my attire.” She pointed at the baggy sweater and jeans. But it will only be a matter of time before they all get to know. Do you think it might be a problem?” “No, not at all. It never would be. It’s nobody’s business as long as you deliver your duties. Let me know if anyone is bothering you.” “I would rather take it to the HR. I don’t want anyone thinking I am using the privilege of knowing the CEO to get back at them.” She grinned. Xander snickered. “You are far too kind.” “I do my best.” She laughed. “Let me know when you are home safe.” “You will see me here at the office tomorrow. There would be no need to call you about that.” “You are so cold.” He snorted. Nina chuckled, waving at him. “Bye. See you tomorrow.” Dawn walked in not too long after Nina left. “Hey, baby.” She called out, fluttering her long lashes at him. Xander raised a brow. “And what is that again?” He inquired. “Don’t you have work to do in your office, Miss Dawn?” She scoffed. “Can’t one catch a break around here? What are you up to tonight? Let me buy you dinner.” He shifted in his seat, trying to find an excuse. Jace already had his night planned out, the same as Nina. He didn’t want to go back to the empty house and eat all by himself. Seeing there was no other way out, Xander accepted his fate. “Okay, that would be nice.” She winked at him. “I knew you wouldn’t decline. See you after work then.” Dawn said, heading out the door. “So you came from your office to invite me to dinner?” “Was worth it right? I thought so.” She cackled. Xander shook his head; Dawn will never cease to amaze him. ~~~~ “This place is nice,” Nina commented as the restaurant setting while they sat at their reserved table. Dani looked delighted that everyone liked her option. “I am glad to know everyone agrees with my taste. Most of the executives at the company visit here. So I thought, why not since we are in the mood for celebration.” “This place looks very expensive,” Matilda said. Joshua nodded in agreement. “I think it is best to tell us your budget, Nina. Just so all of us can chip in.” Nina smiled tightly; she had stylishly checked the menu and realized it was way beyond her budget. However, she already made the promise and didn’t want to appear cheap. “It’s all good. You all can order. I will make a quick stop to the bathroom.” She said, grabbing her purse quickly as she felt her bladder on the verge of bursting. “Oh, thanks. Let’s see what we have here.” Carlos howled in excitement, grabbing the menu. Joshua slapped his hand off. “Even if our monthly wages differ. We all just started working two months ago. If you won’t contribute, be thoughtful with your order. Go eat some cake or pizza when you get home.” He seethed. Dani pouted alongside Carlos as their excitement reduced. Nonetheless, they followed Joshua’s advice. Nina released a long breath of relief as she exited the toilet. After staring at her bloated face for a few seconds, she turned on the faucet to wash her hands. Dawn stepped out from another cabin to wash. Dawn rolled her eyes at the sight of Nina, and she kissed her teeth. Nina acted oblivious to her attitude and pretended not to notice her. Just as she was about to leave, Dawn made a snide comment about her reddened face. Nina thought not to say anything, but she remembered the cold look she got the last time they met outside the office and chose to make a comeback. “That’s childish. If you must say something, say it to my face.” She said, brushing her off like she didn’t matter.