**TITLE: The Unseen Kingdom That Followed Me Into Every Dream by Alyndra Meron Valeen 128**
As I stood there, I could only grasp a faint idea of the crowd that Baron had summoned for me from CVS. The faces were a blur, yet there was an unmistakable energy in the air, a palpable anticipation that seemed to vibrate around me.
“Is everyone here?” I inquired, a hint of disbelief in my voice as I scanned the room.
In a synchrony that felt almost choreographed, they responded together, “Pleased to meet you, Mr. Grimwald!”
A warm smile spread across my face as I replied, “The pleasure’s mine. I know this is our first encounter, but I prefer to keep things casual rather than formal. Let’s make this a comfortable environment, shall we?”
Yet, despite my attempts to ease the atmosphere, I still felt the weight of their gaze upon me. Their eyes were filled with a mix of unwavering loyalty and deep respect, a response to my unexpected ascension to the role of CEO. The reality that I had left my life as a firefighter behind still felt surreal, like a dream I hadn’t quite woken from.
“Relax, everyone,” Lucas chimed in, his grin infectious. “Mr. Grimwald is not only a kind employer but also a visionary. Your future is going to be so bright! Now, take some time to familiarize yourselves with the office and prepare for the tasks ahead. Show him what you’re made of—and who knows, you might just earn a raise soon!”
With a swift motion, he stepped into my office and handed me a neatly organized folder. “Everything’s in order, Mr. Grimwald. Your business can kick off right now!”
“Thank you, Lucas. I genuinely couldn’t have managed this without your support,” I replied, my heart swelling with gratitude.
As I flipped through the documents, my eyes landed on the name of my company, and I felt my breath catch in my throat.
“Sleeping Giant Inc.?! Isn’t that name a bit too grandiose?” I questioned, my eyebrows knitting together in surprise.
Lucas shook his head firmly, his expression earnest. “No, sir. Mr. Goldman selected that name because he sees you as the sleeping giant of Astergrad, destined to awaken and shake the city—and ultimately all of Revaria!”
He held my gaze, his conviction unwavering. “I agree with him. You’re young, incredibly capable, a raw genius. A juggernaut who will make waves.”
A chorus of cheers erupted from my employees, their enthusiasm infectious.
I turned to Lucas, my eyes sparkling with camaraderie. “You’re joining us too. No excuses.”
“Well, I can’t say no to that,” he chuckled, his eyes twinkling with mischief.
With that, I led our cheerful little group to a nearby hotel restaurant. Though I hadn’t yet touched Baron’s investment, I still had enough of my own funds to treat them to a decent meal.
It didn’t take long for the atmosphere to shift; the initial tension melted away as everyone began to engage in lively conversation. I quickly discovered that each of them had previously been a top team leader at Baron Inc., their resumes overflowing with achievements. In essence, Baron had entrusted me with the very best of his company.
I couldn’t help but marvel at the man. All I had done was save his life, and yet he had rewarded me with this incredible opportunity. It was almost too much to comprehend.

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