From Darkness to Light: Darwin's Rise

Chapter 0013

12

"CEO? But I've run this company for 20 years!" Randolph exclaimed with incredulity.

"And you will continue to provide your expertise, as sir Wettin's assistant." James's calm demeanor hid the satisfaction of stripping Randolph down a peg.

Randolph shot to his feet, face reddening. "Assistant?" he sputtered.

James remained calm but firm. "Yes, as sir Wettin's assistant. You should feel honored sir Wettin has allowed you to keep any position at all after your poor leadership."

Randolph's mind spun. His life's work, reduced to an underling role. The rage and humiliation threatened to overwhelm him.

Taking a moment to steady his breathing, Randolph met James's steady gaze. "I understand you feel I must be punished. But surely there is another way?"

James considered him coldly. "The decision has been made. You can accept the role of assistant, or we will consider your employment terminated."

Terminated? Randolph paled at the thought. After decades spent climbing the corporate ladder, it would all be for nothing. He had to make them understand.

"Please, just give me a chance to prove myself," Randolph begged, falling to his knees. "I am humble and willing to learn. Don't throw me out like yesterday's rubbish!"

He grasped James's hands desperately, but the butler remained impassive. Darwin watched quietly, intrigued to see how the man would react.

"Let me keep my position, even if only as...as an advisor. I will support young Darwin in any way needed," Randolph babbled, tears welling up.

James glanced at Darwin, one eyebrow raised in question. Darwin considered for a moment, then nodded once. Randolph collapsed in relief, face pressed to the carpet.

"Thank you, thank you!" he blubbered. Darwin hid a smile behind his hand. Perhaps this would be an entertaining change after all.

Randolph sat back in his chair, doing his best to compose himself after such a humiliating demotion. He straightened his tie and cleared his throat.

"You have my gratitude for allowing me to keep any role here at all, Sir Wettin," Randolph said humbly. "I pledge to serve you faithfully as an advisor and support your vision for this company. Please, tell me how I can be of assistance in this transition."

Darwin nodded thoughtfully. "I have big plans to modernize and expand our operations. But first we must address the toxic culture that was allowed to fester here. Employees should feel safe and supported in their work."

"You're quite right," Randolph agreed. "As CEO, I clearly failed in that duty. But with your leadership, I know this company will thrive."

After a few hours of discussing plans for the company's future, Darwin felt he had given Randolph enough direction to begin implementing the needed changes. He stood and put his t-shirt straight, ready to take his leave.

"Thank you for your time, Mr. Randolph. I believe that will be all for now," Darwin said. "Please have the new organization plan on my desk by Friday for review."

Randolph nodded quickly. "Of course, Sir Wettin. You can count on me." He paused, then added hesitantly, "Will you...require anything else before you go?"

Darwin glanced at James, who gave a subtle shake of his head. Their business here was concluded. "No, that will be all. James, are you ready?"

"Whenever you are, sir," James replied smoothly. He rose and opened the office door, standing aside for Darwin to exit first.

Darwin and James entered the elevator and rode it down to the ground floor in silence. As the doors opened, they passed by the now empty reception desk. Darwin smiled as he thought of Rebecca, the former receptionist, who was no longer there after getting what she deserved for her mistakes.

****

Darwin sighed as he leaned back in the plush leather seats of his Rolls Royce, still processing the day's chaotic events. So much had changed in just a few short hours, he was now CEO.

As the car wended its way through the bustling city streets, Darwin's phone rang with an unknown number. He answered cautiously, "Hello?"

"Darwin, it's Nick! Glad I finally got a hold of you, mate." His old friend's cheery voice was a welcome comfort.

Darwin smiled, feeling a sense of nostalgia. It had been too long since he'd seen Nick. His friend had been so supportive during the dark time with his ex Lisa. "Nick, it's good to hear your voice. It seems ages since we last spoke."

"Much too long if you ask me! Listen, I know you've been going through it lately but a few of us are hitting up Purgatory tonight, the new club downtown. Come have a drink and let loose, yeah? It'll be good for you to get out and have some fun. We'll be meeting there around 8."

Darwin glanced at the clock - it was only 7 now. The invitation was tempting after such a stressful day. A night out with friends was just what he needed to relax.

"You know what, Nick? Purgatory sounds perfect. I'll see you there in an hour." Darwin said. Nick whooped in excitement. "Okay, i'll be waiting for you man."

After hunging up, Darwin decided to drive himself to the club to meet his friend. A night of leisure was well-deserved after such a productive day as CEO.