THE ICE BILLIONAIRE

PARAGRAPH 2 THE ICE BILLIONAIRE

**Outside, in the Coffee Room**

Amy, Susan, and Rye resumed their work-related conversations, steering clear of any topics related to their boss's unpredictable nature. they knew better than to jorpardise their positions or gossip about the man who held their professional destinies in his hands.

Bridget returned to the coffee room, her professionalism shining through. She glanced at her colleagues and offered an encouraging smile. "Let's keep up the good work, everyone. We're a team, and together, we can achieve great things for Sterling Industries."

The employees nodded in agreement, reminded that in the corporate world, discretion and professionalism were paramount, especially when dealing with the enigmatic and demanding Alexander Sterling.

As Bridget sipped her coffee and engaged in the work-related conversations, Rye took a moment to approach her discreetly.

"Bridget, do you think there's any chance that big boss might reconsider Josh's firing?" he asked in a hushed tone.

Bridget considered Rye's question for a moment. "It's unlikely, Rye. When the boss makes a decision, he rarely changes his mind. But I'II do my best to ensure Josh gets a fair recommendation for his next job."

Rye nodded with a grateful smile, and the group continued discussing their tasks, all silently acknowledging that the mysterious billionaire at the helm of Sterling Industries was as enigmatic as ever.

Bridget knew that 99% of Sterling Industries employees hated the “Big Boss” as they nicknamed him, and the 1% that didn’t was her. Even employees at the bottom of the tree that never encountered Alexander heard stories. There were even made of stories of the big boss, as well as stories of Bridget herself. They employees once gossiped that Bridget was the big boss’s mistress and that is why he made her his executive assistant.

In spite of all the rumors, hate, envy and many talks, Bridget did her job diligently, without complaint and she was always as polite as ever, even to people she clearly knew did not like her.

Soon, it was the close of the day for Sterling Industries. The workers left their offices and desks to return back to their homes and prepare for another cycle of a new day.

Alexander gently walked over to his shelf and neatly placed the book which he had been reading for most of the afternoon. It was also time for him to go home after a long day of signing documents, attending meetings and of course, being “big boss”.

He picked up his jacket, his sunglasses, suitcase and his keys. As Alex walked through the hallway, he reflected on how much progress he has made over the years.

Alex was a hardworking CEO. He came in early and was always the last person to leave the office. He valued punctuality and accountability over everything else, and he expects the exact same level of commitment from his staff. He swung the door open and walked into his grey vintage Porsche with heavy tints on the glasses.

It was yet another successful day for the Icy Billionaire.

CHAPTER 2: THE DREAMER IN DESPAIR

"Hey Rosie," Bella said weakly, her eyes reflecting the exhaustion of another day spent searching for a job

“OMG B!! Don’t tell me you didn’t get this one too” Rosie, her cheerful demeanor momentarily subdued by Bella’s dejected expression.

“It doesn’t get easier especially when you don’t have the much needed experience” She continued “I mean, where can I get this experience from if not these stupid companies that won’t give me a chance… I’m sick of all this Rosie, maybe I should have stayed with my aunt and joined her in her bakery like she wanted”

Rosie joined Bella on the couch, her tone soft and comforting. "Hey, hey, hey, hold it right there, ma'am. I didn't let you stay with me just so you could try for a couple of months and then quit. So what if you don't get a job immediately? You have to keep trying, my friend!"

“You’re right Rosie… I need to keep fighting, for mum especially” she reaffirmed, cheering up a little. “Let me freshen up and get on with the day. Those Roland kids won’t babysit themselves!”.

“Now that’s the spirit! Go girrrlll” Rosie cheered her on.

Day after day, Isabella “Bella” Walker tried find a place in New York City. Bella was a young woman who had nothing but her zeal and determination to succeed and live the life she has always wanted. She has known nothing but sorrow her entire life. She grabbed only opportunity she got to finally leave the shackles of her wicked aunt and followed her best friend who had just gotten a job as an assistant fashion designer to find a path for herself.

It was yet another day for beautiful Bella. She was beginning to lose hope day by day as she searched for at her path and kept meeting unfortunate end. Bella had just returned from severe job hunting and she already took off to the jewelry store, where she worked as a part time sales rep on Tuesdays and Fridays.

“Hey there Roger!” She brightly said to the manager as she walked into the store.

“Right on time as always Bella darling!” He replied with a big smile.

“Of course Roger, trust me to always be on time. How’s it going over here?” Bella continued.

“Oh everything is going great, a few hiccups here and there, you know, the regular. How has job hunting been coming along?” Roger asked

Bella sighed, her expression revealing her struggle. “Oh Roger, what can I say? The more I try, the more my luck fails me”

Roger placed a supportive hand on her shoulder. "I think you need a break, darling. I understand how hard it gets, trust me. I honestly think you need to take a break. It's the weekend; why don't you do something interesting this weekend? It will give you more room to think properly and continue your hunt during the week."

“Thanks Roger, I better get to work now” Bella replied as she prepared to get on with her shift for the day. They both smiled and Roger handed her the records.