The First Day
373 Words
Maya stood outside the towering headquarters of Blackwood Holdings, clutching her employee ID. Today was her first official day as Ethan Blackwood's personal assistant.
She took a deep breath before stepping inside.
The receptionist greeted her with a warm smile.
"Good morning, Miss Maya. Mr. Blackwood is expecting you."
As the elevator climbed to the top floor, her stomach fluttered with nervous excitement. This was more than a job—it was a chance to rebuild her life.
The elevator doors opened, and Claire Morgan was waiting.
"You're five minutes early," Claire said with an approving nod. "Mr. Blackwood appreciates punctuality."
"I didn't want to be late."
"Good. Follow me."
Claire led Maya through a sleek hallway lined with glass offices before stopping outside a large wooden door.
She knocked once.
"Come in," Ethan's deep voice answered.
Maya stepped inside.
Ethan stood by the floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the city. Dressed in a tailored charcoal suit, he looked every bit the powerful billionaire people described.
He turned to face her.
"Good morning, Miss Maya."
"Good morning, Mr. Blackwood."
He handed her a leather planner.
"This contains today's schedule. I expect every meeting to run on time. If anything changes, inform me immediately."
"Yes, sir."
As Maya reviewed the schedule, Ethan's phone rang.
He answered briefly before his expression darkened.
"I'll be there in ten minutes."
He ended the call and looked at Maya.
"Our first meeting has been moved. Bring the contract files and meet me in the conference room."
Maya nodded and hurried out.
Minutes later, she entered the conference room carrying the documents. Several executives were already seated around the table.
As Ethan began speaking, Maya noticed one executive staring at her with open hostility.
His nameplate read Daniel Blackwood.
Throughout the meeting, Daniel questioned every decision Ethan made.
When the meeting ended, he walked past Maya and stopped beside her.
"So," he said with a cold smile, "you're Ethan's new assistant."
"Yes."
"Here's some free advice."
He leaned closer.
"Working for my cousin is dangerous."
Before Maya could respond, Daniel walked away.
She watched him disappear down the hallway, unease settling in her chest.
Who was Daniel Blackwood?
And why did he sound less like family... and more like a warning?
- Writer
