Midnight Lovers

Grace Moon stepped into the lobby of Herculean Empires, her sneakers barely made a sound on the linoleum floor as she made her way to the front desk. "I'm here to collect my badge. My name is Grace Moon," she declared to the pristine desk clerk. "Ah, you are Mr. Steven's new assistant, right?" the woman said, "It's sad that Aunt Penny has to retire so soon. She was a gem. Here is your badge. I'll inform Aunt Penny that you are here." "Thank you, have a wonderful day," Grace said, with a light wave, and headed for the gates where others were scanning their badges. She scanned hers then headed for the elevator. She hoped her attire for the day was okay. The pencil skirt she wore went to her knees, she wore sneakers because she hated heels and the shirt she wore was a light creme color. Stepping off the elevator at the CEO's floor, she was greeted by a friendly older lady. "Hello there, I am Mr. Steven's former assistant Penelope," the woman greeted, extending her hand, "I will show you around and get you familiar with Mr. Steven's usual activities." Grace smiled as she followed the woman to the desk that was neat and tidy. She listened with rapt attention as Penelope told her about her daily duties right down to how Mr. Stevens liked his coffee in the morning. "Daniel is a bit of a nitpicker, but don't let that deter you, sweetie, he is a kind man. Just a little anal at times, especially about punctuality," Penelope remarked, "He likes to remain late into the night at times as well, don't go home before he does in case he needs you for something." Grace nodded, "I'd heard the rumors on the day of the interview and one of those who were doing the interview asked if I was up to staying late into the night at times. I told him that wouldn't be a problem." Penelope smiled and showed her around the building, talking animatedly with everyone in the building. Many people expressed their sadness that Penelope would be retiring and wished Grace good luck with her new position. "You are working for the literal devil now lady, so be prepared for his wrath," commented one of the workers in a low tone while Penelope was chatting with a few of the women in that department, "He is a tricky son of a bitch." Grace just smiled and thanked the man for the warning. She was just happy to get the job. Bills didn't wait for anybody and her last job had barely paid the rent. Back in the CEO's office, she took her time looking over notes and changing the password to Penelope's computer since she would now be using it. She grabbed the small tablet she had bought and uploaded the schedule and planner with all the information on meetings and other important notes. Syncing the tablet with the computer so she could access files while away from the office. She talked a bit more with Penelope before the woman left for the day. Penelope had told her that today Mr. Steven was out with some business partners having lunch and may not be back that day. So she was allowed to clock out early if she wanted. Grace thanked her and watched as the woman headed for the elevators. She had time to herself once the older woman was gone to memorize the next day's schedule and read emails from people who requested things. She familiarized herself with the filing system both on the computer and behind the desk. By six o'clock she was heading out the door for home. Stopping only briefly to pick up some beer and snacks for herself and the girls since tonight was a girl's night in with her best friends.