CHAPTER 3: THE FIRST TEST
436 Words
Sophia followed Alexander Knight through the sleek, glass-panelled corridors of Knight Enterprises, her heels clicking against the polished marble floor. With each step, it felt like she was venturing deeper into enemy territory.
His office was massive, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that showcased the New York skyline. It was minimalist yet undeniably powerful. A man like Alexander didn’t need excess; he embodied it.
“Sit,” he ordered, gesturing toward a chair opposite his desk.
Sophia complied, maintaining a straight posture and a neutral expression.
Alexander leaned back in his chair, fingers steepled together as he studied her like a puzzle he intended to solve.
“You were recommended by HR,” he said. “Impressive credentials. But I don’t care about what’s on paper. You either meet my expectations, or you’re out.”
She nodded. “Understood.”
“Good. Let’s see how you handle pressure.”
He slid a file across the desk.
“Inside are details about today’s board meeting. I need you to summarize the key points, prepare an agenda, and ensure all necessary documents are distributed to my executive team. You have one hour.”
Sophia took the file without hesitation. “I’ll get it done.”
Alexander’s lips curved slightly—almost amused, almost impressed. “We’ll see.”
One Hour Later
Sophia stood outside his office, double-checking everything. Agenda? Done. Key points highlighted? Done. Documents sent? Done.
She knocked.
“Come in.”
Alexander barely glanced up as she placed the documents on his desk. He skimmed through them, his expression unreadable.
Finally, he looked up at her.
“Not bad,” he said.
Relief flickered in her chest, but she didn’t let it show. “Thank you.”
His eyes darkened slightly. “I didn’t say it was good, either.”
Sophia fought the urge to roll her eyes. Of course, he had to make it difficult.
“You’ll do,” he finally said. “For now.”
She gave him a polite nod and turned to leave.
But just as she reached the door, his voice stopped her.
“You’re different, Sophia.”
Her breath hitched.
“Most people are intimidated by me,” he continued. “You’re not.”
She glanced back at him, masking the storm inside her. “I just don’t scare easily, Mr. Knight.”
His lips curled into something dangerously close to a smirk. “Good. Because this job will test you.”
Sophia walked out of his office with her head held high.
She had passed the first test.
But something told her that Alexander Knight would be her biggest challenge yet.
- Writer
