The One Billion Dollars Translator

The Billion Dollars Project

Alex left the conference room without another word. Behind him, Gracias was already celebrating Henry’s new position.

“Thanks mom” Henry pecked his mom's cheek who smiled widely in return.

“You deserve this opportunity. I knew you are the right person for the job” she said proudly

Henry's laughter followed Alex into the hallway but he didn't turn around.

By the time he reached his office, his face had gone completely blank. He closed the door and stood there for a moment.

For Five good years! He had worked overtime for the betterment of the company by translating contracts, attending meetings with foreign partners, reviewing technical documents and handling every German, French and other languages related communication the company needed and in less than an hour, Gracias had reduced all of it to a privilege he supposedly received because of his father.

He walked to his desk and pulled open the bottom drawer. Several folders were stacked inside. He took them out and placed them on the table; they contained copies of the translation work he had completed for the company over the years. Contracts worth millions. Business proposals, the technical reports correspond with foreign partners.

He flipped through a few pages. Every document reminded him of the countless hours he had spent making sure the company's international dealings went smoothly.

Alex closed the final folder. There was no point looking backward. He sat down, opened his computer and created a new document.

It was his resignation letter. He didn't waste time explaining himself. His resignation letter was direct and professional. He stated his decision to leave Elite Construction and thanked the company for the opportunity to serve.

Once he finished, he read it over, signed it and printed a copy. He folded the letter and slipped it into his pocket then he began clearing his desk.

His phone beeped. He picked it up and checked the screen. It was a letter from Lucy, his working partner.

Lucy: Eric Stephens is coming into the country in two days. Should we prepare for his arrival?

Alex paused, murmuring “Eric Stephens” 

Eric was known internationally for handling major construction investments, and his arrival at Elite Construction would normally have been a matter requiring serious preparation but Alex was no longer interested.

He typed a response almost immediately; My job in this company is done. There is no reason for us to prepare.

He sent it and returned to packing but got distracted as his phone beeped again 

Lucy; His secretary, Elena, said they're coming for a billion-dollar project for Elite Construction.

Alex paused. A billion dollars construction project? That's huge!

For a few seconds, he stared at the message. That kind of project could change the company's future. It was also exactly the kind of project where his translation skills would have been valuable but Gracias had already made her decision.

Alex replied; Lucy, do as I said. We are done with Elite Construction.

He put the phone aside while his resignation letter was still in his pocket. He packed the few personal belongings he had brought to work and looked around his office. When he was sure there was nothing else he needed, he picked up his bag and reached for the door.

It opened before he could touch it and Henry stood by the entrance, about to enter.

His eyes moved from Alex to the packed bag on the desk and his brows furrowed.

“What are you doing?” he questioned 

Alex looked at him, taking another deep breath before answering, “what is needed to be done”