The ceo's secretary

Chapter 2

The Weight of Expectations

Emily's point of view

My alarm blared when I woke up the next morning, blaring me from a restless sleep full of visions of boardrooms and power battles. I squinted and looked at the clock. Though I slept hardly, the thrill of my new work drove me from bed. This was a different day, and I was resolved to leave Julian a positive impression.

Following a brief shower and a basic meal, I got dressed in a neat white shirt and a black skirt I thought would be professional. Applying a little bit of makeup made me feel both anxious and excited. What modern times might bring?

Arriving at Blackwood Enterprises, I was met with the typical office buzz. Urgent air permeated the room, as clicking keyboards and ringing phones filled it. I inhaled deeply, reminded myself I belonged here. I was part of Julian's life now, not simply a secretary.

I looked at the clock as I set down at my desk. Just after eight, I knew Julian would be here shortly. From the files to the coffee pot, I arranged my workstation such that everything was in order. I wanted to be ready for any need he might have.

Julian walked into the office at exactly 8:30, his presence demanding notice. His hair was exactly groomed and he wore a custom navy suit that highlighted his big shoulders. As he got to me, I felt flutter in my gut.

"Good morning, Emily," he began, his voice confident and fluid. "I assume you're prepared for a hectic day?

"Good morning, Julian," I said, smiling forcedly. "I'm set. What is it I should do?

"First, you have to get ready the agenda for the board meeting today. I want it on my desk by noon, he said with no space for discussion.

Of course, I said, noting things down. "Nothing else?"

"Make sure our marketing team schedules a follow-up. They have to show their revised plan, he said, looking at his watch. And I will need black, no sugar coffee.

I nodded, starting to move already. "I will look after it straight away."

Working on the agenda, I felt his expectations weighting down on me. I wanted to wow him, prove I could meet the rigours of the employment. But the anxiety grew as minute passed.

About eleven, I brought Julian's office the finished agenda. He was on the phone, his voice low and forceful. Standing at the door, I watched for him to leave.

"...I have no concern about the hazards. We have to go ahead, he said with unflinching tone. I'll take care of it.

He looked up and met my eye as he hanged. You are here, Emily. Good. Has your agenda been completed?

Actually, I did. I said here, passing him the folder. "I also set Thursday's follow-up with the marketing crew."

"Good work," he said, skimming the paper. "You are changing rapidly."

Thank you; I felt a surge of pride as I said. "I just try to keep up with you."

He gave a little smile, a trace of entertainment in his eyes. "Keeping up is only starting point. I see you going to shine.

Turning to go, I caught a glimpse of his face—a mix of something softer, almost vulnerable and drive. I pondered what might be hiding under that rugged front. Later on That Evening

The board meeting spun through choices and conversations. Sitting in the rear of the room, I noted how Julian commanded its presence. His voice was forceful, and his approach of presenting his ideas eliminated any possibility for uncertainty. I thought it admirable how effortlessly he negotiated the complexity of the corporate world.

"Are there any comments on the suggested budget?" Julian inquired, looking about the room. The board members moved uneasily, but none ventured to criticize him.

As I watched him, I couldn't help but be proud. He was a force to be reckoned with, and I had good fortune to live in his orbit.

Julian came to me with a solemn look after the conference as the board members filed out, “Emily I need you to back off momentarily.

My pulse surged. "Of course, Julian What do you need?

"Next week you should get ready to show our investors something. It must be slick and businesslike; his tone leaves no space for mistake

Definitely I said, eager to impress myself “I'll start straight away"

"Good". If you need anything, I will be in my office; then, turning to go, he remarked

I was excited and anxious at the same time as I started to compile the required tools. This was my opportunity to highlight my abilities, but pressure was building. Though I worried about disappointing Julian, I wanted to wow him. A few Hours Later

I sank into research and data analysis as the afternoon progressed. The office was quieting down, and I appreciated the privacy. My phone buzzed with a message from Julian just as I was finding a rhythm.

Could you visit my workplace?

I inhaled deeply, fast cleaning my desk, then headed toward his office. I started to feel anxious when I knocked on the door.

He urged, "Come in."

When I arrived, he was standing by the window gazing out at the metropolitan skyline. The room glowed warmly in late afternoon sun.

"Emily," he replied, turning to face me. "I wanted to talk about the presentation.”

Trying to project confidence, I answered, "Sure, I have some data on our recent projects and their impact on our growth."

"Good". But I also want to discuss something else, his tone grave.

With heart pounding, "What is it?" I said.

"I value your commitment; you have been working hard. But you have to realize that this employment carries expectations, he remarked, his voice calm.

I said, attempting to remain cool, "I understand." "I promise to try my best.”

"I know you are, but right now you should be ready for the difficulties ahead. This sector is merciless, hence you will have to defend yourself with sharp eyes.

"I can handle it," I answered, startling myself with the clarity of voice. "I want to show myself capable."

For a minute, he regarded me and seemed to be flickering with approval. "I think you are capable. Just keep in mind that, should you need it, asking for aid is quite acceptable. " Thank you, Julian. I will keep it in mind, seeing friendship growing between us. He cried out as I turned to head off. " Emily.". Stopped, I turned back to him. Indeed. " Excellent effort today. Impressed, he murmured, a rare smile breaking through his austere attitude. Thank you; warmth poured over my cheeks. Leaving his office, I felt both excitement and resolve. Later That Tonight I finished the presentation last night after a demanding day. As I saved the last document, I felt successful. Having worked hard, I was pleased of what I had produced. Julian's office lamp caught my eye as I got ready to go. I paused for a bit then resolved to knock on his door. He urged, "Come in." He was at his desk reading papers when I opened the door. Startled, I said, "You're still here?" Looking up, he said, "I have a lot to catch up on." What about you? With my folder held up, I added, "I just finished the presentation." "I wanted to be sure it lived up to your expectations." "Let's have a look," he motioned for me to seat. I experienced the usual surge of anxiety when I showed my work. Julian studied my slides carefully, his face austere. After a few minutes, he added, "This is impressive, Emily." "You have done rather good research." "Thank you," I replied, a surge of pride swelling through me. I wanted it to be exhaustive. Leaning back in his chair, he had a reflective look. " You know, you have promise. You seem to have great promise. Surprised, I asked, "really?". "I never thought I would leave such an impact." "You are more qualified than you would think. Just keep stretching yourself, he advised. That evening as I left his office, I felt successful. Julian's appreciation of my efforts meant more than I could say as I was starting to define my place in this world. Still, I felt as I strolled to the elevator that the difficulties were just starting. The shadows of authority hovered over us, and I realized negotiating this planet would call more than just diligence. Two Chapters' End This chapter explores Julian's character and the expectations he lays on Emily as well as her development and will, therefore strengthening their bond. Their growing conflict prepares the ground for next challenges and changes in their relationship.