Just as Engineer Martin shouted, "Three," a voice cut through sharply: "Stop!"
He spun around in surprise. It was the woman Maven and Caleb had encountered earlier—completely unexpected, and unknown to them, she was the company CEO.
Striding toward them, her high heels clicking on the ground, she radiated authority. Engineer Martin's eyes widened, assuming she was angry about the blocked road.
"Hi, Miss Trudy," Caleb muttered under his breath. Maven glanced at him, both silently wondering what would happen next.
Miss Trudy asked, "What's going on here?"
"These illiterate masons were messing with company ethics," Engineer Martin began, his voice trembling slightly. Maven looked at his team, still kneeling, and silently signaled them to stand.
"Have I told you to stand?" Martin snapped, causing the workers to hesitate and kneel again.
Miss Trudy's gaze hardened. "Stand. Dismiss." The workers quickly thanked her and left.
Turning to Martin, she asked, "What ethics have they broken?"
"They've caused a financial loss by blocking the lane, wasting materials and resources. They must be sacked," Martin barked.
Miss Trudy, observing the situation, saw through his lies. Her voice firm, she said, "Engineer Martin, get another team to clear the blocked lane. And treat Maven and Caleb with respect, or you'll face dismissal yourself."
Martin's face fell. He glanced at Maven and Caleb, a mix of anger and fear in his eyes. "Yes, Miss… yes, Miss," he stammered, retreating, humiliated.
Miss Trudy turned to Maven. "I love watching your content about the company. You do a great job showcasing our projects."
Maven smiled. "Thank you, Miss Trudy."
Caleb saw an opportunity and spoke quickly. "Thank you for saving us, Miss Trudy. Could you give your contact to my friend? Engineer Martin might try to humiliate us again."
Trudy nodded, handing Maven her card. They shared a brief smile before leaving the construction site. Caleb noticed her gaze linger on Maven, thinking, this might be a good opportunity for him.
Maven pocketed the card. "What a lunatic engineer," he muttered. Turning to Caleb, he added, "Thanks for backing me up, man. I owe you one."
"No need to thank me," Caleb replied. "The real credit goes to Miss Trudy."
Maven raised an eyebrow. "The real credit?"
Caleb grinned. "I made sure she gave you her contact. That's progress, my friend."
Maven's eyes widened. "You think she's interested in me?"
"Absolutely," Caleb said confidently. "Miss Trudy really likes you."
Maven playfully hit his arm. "You're crazy. You think you can read minds?"
Caleb chuckled. "I know what I see. She likes you—big chance, Maven."
"Alright, alright," Maven laughed. "Let's go. Forty-five-minute drive ahead."
As they walked, Caleb reminded him, "Don't forget to post the Block 3 building video online. Content needs to keep flowing."
Maven nodded. "Sure. By the time we reach our destination, it'll have some views."
He posted the video while Caleb monitored the phone. Unbeknownst to them, Miss Trudy saw the post, liked it, and shared it, dramatically increasing its reach.
Browsing Maven's profile, she watched his videos, viewed his pictures, and reacted to most of them, clearly captivated.
When Maven and Caleb arrived at their destination, they were astonished by the engagement. "Miss Trudy shared it—it's causing traffic!" Maven exclaimed.
Caleb checked her profile picture. "Yep. It's really her!"
Maven's eyes lit up with excitement. "I didn't expect this."
As they passed a pub, Caleb suggested grabbing some wine. Maven agreed, and the conversation shifted.
"Did you ever go back to retest the key at the post office?" Caleb asked.
Maven chuckled. "That prank key?"
"Where is it?"
"On my neck," Maven replied.
Caleb laughed. "I don't think the old man would give it to you as a joke."
Maven's expression grew serious. "What do you mean?"
"I mean," Caleb said, "he wouldn't give you a key just for fun."
Maven replied, "It's rusted, but who leaves something precious at the post office in this digital age?"
"Maybe he had a reason—a document or legacy," Caleb suggested.
"Alright, I'll try next time," Maven assured.
Their conversation brimmed with excitement and curiosity. When it was time to part ways, they went home, both buzzing with anticipation.