Empire Chess Game

Section 2

The boss's office was located at the back of the company,and through the glass door,one could see various certificates of honor and trophies displayed inside.Alison knocked on the door and heard a"Come in"from within.She pushed the door open and walked in.

"Miss Moore,have a seat,"Jack Thompson,the boss,said,sitting behind his desk with a file in hand,his eyes focused on her.

"Boss,what do you need?"Alison sat down and asked directly.

"This project you've been working on is excellent,"Jack said,looking up with a satisfied smile."The client loves your copywriting and has decided to work with us."

"That's great!"Alison breathed a sigh of relief,feeling a wave of joy.

"However,"Jack's tone shifted,"this project is of great significance to the company.I plan to take over personally.The part you've been handling will be handed off to someone else."

Alison's face fell instantly.She knew this was the boss's old trick—taking credit for others'work.She tried to stay calm and said,"Boss,I've been leading this project,and I'm very familiar with it.If you let me continue,I'm sure we can achieve even better results."

"Miss Moore,I know you're excellent,but this project is crucial to the company's future.I have to take personal control,"Jack said firmly."However,I've seen your efforts.Once this project is over,I'll consider promoting you."

Alison bit her lip and didn't say anything more.She knew arguing with the boss was futile.She stood up to leave when Jack added,"By the way,there's a business dinner tonight,and the client will be there.As the main planner of the project,you should go too."

"A business dinner?"Alison was a little surprised.

"Yes,it's a good opportunity for you to communicate further with the client,"Jack nodded."The dinner is at the Harrison Building,starting at 7 p.m.Get ready and dress formally."

The name"Harrison Building"made Alison's heart tighten.She had heard of the Harrison family;they were the largest financial group in New York,controlling half of Wall Street.Being invited to their dinner was a great honor,but Alison had a feeling that things were not as simple as they seemed.

"Alright,I'll be there on time,"Alison said,turning to leave the office.

Back at her workstation,Alison looked out the window at the setting sun,her mind filled with complex emotions.She knew that tonight's dinner might change her fate.

"Miss Moore,what are you thinking about?"Susan's voice came from behind,breaking Alison's reverie.

"Oh,nothing,"Alison replied,forcing a smile."I was just thinking about what to wear to the dinner tonight."

"Dinner?Oh,right,the boss mentioned the dinner at the Harrison Building!"Susan's eyes lit up."That's one of the most prestigious social events in New York.You really need to dress up.You might meet your prince charming there."

Alison smiled but said nothing.She knew Susan always liked to fantasize about these romantic things,but she herself was well aware that tonight's dinner was an opportunity and a challenge for her.

"By the way,I have a friend who works at a clothing store.I can borrow a dress for you,"Susan said enthusiastically."You have such a great figure;you'll definitely look stunning in it."

"Really?That would be great,Susan.Thank you so much,"Alison said gratefully.

"No problem,we're colleagues after all,"Susan replied with a smile."I'll go contact her right now."

Watching Susan's hurried departure,Alison felt a wave of warmth.Although there was a lot of office politics,having friends like Susan made her feel good.