CHAPTER ONE
Diana Wales, a young and enthusiastic woman, woke up promptly at 6:00 am, her alarm clock filling the room with a gentle melody. Today was a momentous day for her as she was starting her first job as a secretary to the CEO of a large international electronic industry. With a mix of excitement and nervousness, she hopped out of bed, ready to conquer the day.
She headed to the bathroom, where she followed her perfectly organized morning routine. Splashing cold water on her face, she felt the adrenaline flow through her veins. Diana swiftly brushed her teeth and diligently styled her chestnut curls. After dressing in a sharp navy blue suit paired with a white blouse, she glanced at her reflection, giving herself a confident smile.
Grabbing a quick breakfast of toast and coffee, Diana double-checked her bag to ensure she had all her essential items. Her planner, notebook, and pens were carefully organized like a well-prepared soldier ready for battle. She called her family, talked for a few minutes and kissed her family goodbye, and as she stepped out of her house, her heart filled with anticipation for the day ahead.
Living in the bustling city of Dallas, Texas, Diana had several options for transportation. Today, she decided to take the subway to work. Walking briskly, she blended into the stream of people, each engrossed in their daily commutes. As she swiped her card at the metro station, she mentally reviewed the notes she had prepared about the company and her new boss.
Boarding the train, Diana found an empty seat and settled in, pulling out her notes to review them one last time. With each passing stop, the excitement within her grew. As the train made its way towards the industry building, Diana observed the other passengers, imagining the stories hidden behind their faces.
As she stepped out of the subway station and into the daylight, she found herself standing in front of a colossal modern building. Its sleek glass exterior reflected the energetic city around it. Taking a moment to compose herself, Diana admired the grandeur of her workplace. The magnitude of her new responsibilities began to sink in, but instead of feeling overwhelmed, she felt empowered and ready.
Entering the building, Diana walked towards the elevators, her heels echoing on the marble floor. Engrossed in her thoughts, she was interrupted by a warm greeting from the receptionist. Polite and welcoming, the receptionist directed her to the CEO's office on the 45th floor.
Taking a deep breath, Diana rode the elevator, stepping out onto her designated floor. The corridor seemed like a maze filled with other dedicated employees. As she approached the CEO's office, butterflies fluttered in her stomach, but she remained calm and collected, ready to embark on this exciting new chapter.
***
As Diana made her way to her duty post, she took the time to greet each person she encountered on the way. Some reciprocated with the same energy, while others simply ignored her kind gesture. Finally, she arrived at the 45th floor, where her boss's office was located – the place where she would be working as well.
To her surprise, there was already a woman present on the floor. The lady introduced herself as Chloe Dallas—it's funny she has the same name as the city they are—the secretary of Mr. David Cadell, the brother of Diana's boss, Dylan Cadell. Chloe explained that Mr. David Cadell was not in the office that day and would be assisting Diana in his absence.
Diana greeted Chloe with a smile and extended her hand for a handshake. "Thank you. It's a pleasure to meet you, Chloe. I'm Diana," she introduced herself. Chloe reciprocated the handshake and replied, "Same here, Diana."
Curiosity getting the better of her, Diana couldn't help but ask, "When is Mr. Dylan going to arrive?" She was concerned about the impression she would make on her boss if he came in before her. Chloe chuckled and reassured her, "Dylan is always an early bird. He's usually here well before the official working hours, usually around seven or a few minutes past."
Relieved to hear this, Diana took note of the information. She promised herself to arrive earlier tomorrow to make a good impression on her boss. Chloe gave her a nod of acknowledgement in response.
Determined to introduce herself to Mr. Dylan, Diana declared, "I'll go and introduce myself to him." Chloe, however, didn't see the necessity and explained, "Actually, there's no need. He already knows you, and if he needs your assistance, he'll call for you. But if you insist, you can go."
"I insist," Diana replied firmly, and they both shared a chuckle. Diana approached the door of Dylan's cabin and heard a voice from inside saying, "Come in." With a mixture of nervousness and confidence, she entered the cabin.
"Good morning, sir. I'm Diana Wales, your new secretary," Diana greeted respectfully. Dylan, still engrossed in his computer, replied without lifting his gaze, "Yes, I know." Eager to be of help, Diana asked, "Do you need assistance with anything, sir?"
"No, I'm good. Just ensure you stay on top of your tasks and promptly respond to any calls or messages I receive," Dylan responded curtly, still not bothering to look up.
Diana nodded, feeling slightly taken aback by his brusque demeanor. Nevertheless, she assured him, "Of course, sir. I'll do my best to fulfill my duties efficiently." She was trying her best to convey confidence despite the lack of warmth she had hoped for in her introduction.
"Good. You can familiarize yourself with the office procedures and protocols during your spare time," Dylan instructed, dismissing her without further engagement.