First Step
562 Words
The morning sun streamed through the curtains, painting Aylin's bedroom in soft shades of gold.
She stood before her mirror, smoothing the fabric of her cream blouse for what felt like the hundredth time.
Today was the day.
Her first day at Carrington Enterprises.
She inhaled deeply, steadying her nerves.
Her navy blazer fit perfectly over her shoulders, paired with a tailored charcoal skirt and modest heels. Her hair fell neatly around her face, styled with simple elegance. A touch of makeup highlighted her natural beauty—nothing too bold, just enough to reflect confidence.
Professional. Poised. Ready.
Or at least, she hoped so.
From the doorway, Adele leaned against the frame, arms crossed and eyes gleaming with approval.
"Well, look at you," she said. "If competence had a face, it would be yours"
Aylin laughed softly. "Is that supposed to calm me down?"
"It should," Adele replied. "You look amazing. Carrington Enterprises won’t know what hit them"
Aylin smiled faintly. "I’m just hoping I don’t embarrass myself on my first day"
"Oh, please. The only thing you’ll embarrass is the competition," Adele teased. "Now grab your bag. We’re going to be late"
Aylin nodded, picking up her purse and giving herself one last look in the mirror.
"You’ve got this," she whispered.
With renewed determination, she stepped out the door.
The towering glass façade of Carrington Enterprises shimmered beneath the morning sun.
Employees streamed in and out, their confident strides echoing the prestige of the company.
Aylin paused at the entrance, her reflection staring back at her from the polished doors.
This was it.
Her fresh start.
She squared her shoulders and stepped inside.
The lobby was breathtaking—marble floors gleamed under crystal chandeliers, and sleek modern décor exuded power and elegance. The atmosphere buzzed with quiet efficiency.
After signing in at reception, Aylin made her way toward the elevators, clutching her orientation documents. Her heart fluttered with anticipation as she glanced around, trying to memorize every detail.
Don’t trip. Don’t panic.
Just breathe.
Turning a corner while reviewing her papers, she took a step forward—
—and collided with someone.
Her documents slipped from her hands, scattering across the polished floor.
"Oh! I’m so sorry!" she exclaimed, immediately kneeling to gather them.
A pair of impeccably polished black shoes came into view.
Before she could reach the last sheet, a strong hand picked it up and held it out to her.
Aylin looked up—
And forgot how to breathe.
The man standing before her was strikingly handsome, dressed in a flawlessly tailored black suit. His presence was commanding, his posture effortless.
But it was his eyes—an arresting shade of molten amber flecked with gold—that held her captive.
They were calm.
Assessing.
Unreadable.
"Thank you," she managed, accepting the paper with trembling fingers.
For a moment, neither of them spoke.
His gaze lingered on her, steady and composed.
Aylin’s pulse quickened.
Oh no.
I just crashed into someone on my first day.
What if he’s important?
What if he reports me?
What if—
Her thoughts spiraled as she struggled to maintain her composure.
"I’m terribly sorry," she said again, lowering her gaze. "It won’t happen again"
Silence followed.
Zane Carrington simply looked at her.
And Aylin Everett, unaware of who he was, felt panic bloom within her as she waited for his reaction.
- Writer
