The next morning, Ruslan left the house early, leaving me alone to focus on work-related matters.
“Ms. Aurelle, when can we expect you to join our team?”
“In seven days,” I replied, my tone resolute.
Just as I prepared to end the call, his voice startled me from behind.
“Aurelle, who are you talking to?”
I quickly hung up, masking my nerves with a calm facade. “No one important, just a scam call.”
Satisfied with my response, Ruslan let the matter drop, his focus shifting to Thea, who trailed behind him like a shadow.
“Aurelle, meet Thea Hunter. She’s a top-tier caregiver I hired just for you,” he announced with feigned enthusiasm.
“Since it’s hard for you to move around and I’m often tied up with work, she’ll be here to assist you,” he added smoothly.
His words hung in the air like a lead weight. Thea, catching his unspoken cue, stepped forward with a practiced smile.
“Yes, I specialize in caring for people with disabilities!” she chimed in, her tone dripping with faux sincerity.
I managed a perfunctory nod, masking my disdain. “If that’s what you think is best. I’m feeling tired and will head to bed.”