Ten
932 Words
The next morning, Ellie woke up early and headed to the mall.
Alex had been clear: she needed to project an image of power and authority. She needed to dress the part, to exude confidence, even if she didn't feel it.
She'd spent the previous evening watching TV, studying the styles of successful businesswomen.
Now, armed with inspiration, she went on a shopping spree, purchasing several power suits, elegant dresses, and a few statement pieces from luxury brands.
She was no longer the carefree heiress.
She was ready to take charge.
Ellie had always been quick-witted, even if she hadn't applied herself in school. She remembered everything Alex had told her, every detail, every nuance.
She knew what she had to do.
At the shoe store, she selected several pairs of high heels, the higher and sharper the better. She was used to wearing heels, so it wouldn't be a problem.
Finally, she chose a stunning red dress, a bold statement that screamed confidence and power.
Looking in the mirror, she saw a transformed woman, a woman ready to take on the world.
A new leader, a new era. She would make a statement, set the tone, and show those board members she meant business.
When she returned home, Alex's assistant, Charles, was waiting for her.
"Ms. Vance, I'm your assistant, effective immediately. Anything you need, anything at all, just let me know. I'm at your disposal." Charles smiled, his demeanor professional and reassuring.
He was Alex's most trusted and capable assistant, renowned for his efficiency and ability to handle any situation.
"Thank you, Charles. I appreciate your help," Ellie said.
They set off for Sterling Enterprises.
On the drive, Charles explained the need for personal security and a dedicated driver. A chairman couldn't be seen as vulnerable, and appearances mattered.
Ellie took note of everything.
Despite her preparation, Ellie was still taken aback by the reception she received at the company.
The receptionist barely acknowledged her, and even the cleaning staff seemed to avoid her gaze.
Most of the senior management were conveniently absent, and those who were present treated her with disdain.
With Alex by her side, she had felt invincible. But without him, she was just an inexperienced heiress, easily dismissed.
Even with Charles's presence, they didn't take her seriously.
Ellie felt a surge of anger, but she quickly composed herself.
"Please have someone clean up the chairman's office," she instructed. "I want the desk replaced with a white one, new chairs… everything needs to be updated."
She entered her father's old office, determined to make it her own.
Her father's former secretary and assistants exchanged snide remarks, ignoring her requests.
"Does she actually believe she can run this company?"
"She never showed any interest before. Now that the chairman's gone, she's suddenly eager to take over. Mark my words, this company will be bankrupt within a month!"
"She's clueless. Utterly clueless."
Ellie's throat tightened, and she fought back tears.
The memory of her father, his warmth and kindness, brought a wave of grief.
But she had to be strong. This company, built by her parents, was her responsibility now.
Ignoring the snide remarks from the staff, Ellie took a deep breath and addressed them with a forced smile. "Did you hear what I said? I expect my office to be completely transformed by this afternoon."
Her words were met with open disdain.
No one moved to obey her, and as they walked away, their whispers followed her.
"Who does she think she is? The chairman?"
"She's got another thing coming if she thinks we'll listen to her."
"We only answer to Mr. Harding!"
Ellie's shoulders slumped. She felt a wave of discouragement.
Without Alex's presence to intimidate them, they didn't respect her authority.
"Charles, what do I do?" she asked, turning to her assistant. "Am I… not cut out for this?"
"Mr. Ramsey believes that anyone can learn to lead, Ms. Vance. Even someone who started with nothing. Don't be discouraged. This is just the first day. There's a long way to go. Managing a company isn't something you learn overnight." Charles's calm voice was reassuring.
"You're right. I can't give up now." Ellie straightened her shoulders, a spark of determination returning to her eyes.
"Ms. Vance, remember what Mr. Ramsey said about appearances. Project confidence. Sometimes, that's all it takes to win people over."
Ellie nodded, taking a deep breath. She closed her eyes for a moment, summoning her inner strength.
When she opened them, her demeanor had changed. She walked with purpose, her head held high.
She marched into the secretarial office, where the staff were gossiping and laughing, their work neglected. "Did you hear my instructions?" she asked, her voice sharp and clear. "I expect those tasks completed this morning. And let me remind you, this company is not a playground. If you're not here to work, then leave. Now."
Her voice echoed through the office, silencing the chatter.
The secretaries stared at her, stunned. But their surprise quickly morphed into resentment.
"Look at her, trying to act tough."
"She thinks she can boss us around? Not a chance."
"Mr. Harding will put her in her place."
Ellie ignored their defiance and headed towards the CEO's office.
Richard Harding was already there, seemingly engrossed in his work. He didn't acknowledge her presence, even when she knocked.
Ellie waited patiently, her frustration growing with each passing minute.
Finally, after nearly an hour, Richard Harding looked up, feigning surprise. "Ellie, when did you arrive? Why didn't you say anything? Come in, come in. What brings you here?"
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