A Clash of Passions

Chapter 2: Monday

__Brianna__

For someone who hated mondays, i was excited.

I was in a baby blue top, which had three-step petal-shaped fringes on the fitted sleeves and a sheer upper neck with pearls on the neckline.

I paired it with a black high-waist skirt, giving me a stylish and glamorous look.

Then i opted for some black heels to go along with my outfit, which helped to create a polished look while also adding a touch of elegance and sophistication.

My long, black hair was up in a neat bun, giving me an overall professional look. I radiated an image of composure and confidence. It was my first day at the office, and i couldn't be happier.

Not only did i pass my job interview, but i also landed the position of secretary at one of the most reputable telecommunication companies in Los Angeles, JETON.

I couldn't stop gazing around the secretarial suite since i arrived. The whole thing still felt like a dream to me. Of course, my workspace was the secretary's desk, which was located in the reception area just outside the CEO's office.

The desk was equipped with a computer, phone, and other essential office supplies. There were also some shelves for organizing paperwork and files, as well as a small seating area for visitors. The space was comfortable and would allow me to perform my job efficiently.

On one hand, i was excited to make some money for my mother's hospital bills, especially after what my father did. It was my best revenge - a way to prove to my father that we could survive without him.

On the other hand, i was worried about my mother's health, which had progressively worsened over the last four months.

After a while, i sat on my desk. I was told the CEO only came into the office once or twice a week, and it provided a temporary respite from my anxiety.

At least, i wouldn't be under so much pressure to perform perfectly or get everything right, which was a relief. Soon after, the office phone rang out, and i shot up from my desk, snatching it up with practised proficiency. It was a call from a customer.

After the call, i recorded some important details and contacted the appropriate department to follow up on the customer's request. I was a fast learner, after all. I then started going through some emails.

"Hello, Brianna."

I looked up to see a handsome man standing over me. He smiled as he looked down at me. It was Charles, if i recalled his name correctly. He was the human resources manager. We already met earlier. He was young. Probably a few years older than i was. He was good-looking, too, in a cute way.

"Hello, sir."

I greeted him back with a smile.

"How're you settling in?"

He asked, genuinely interested in my response.

"Well, it's going well, thank you. I'm still getting familiar with everything, and i'm enjoying learning the ropes."

"Thank you, sir."

The excitement on my face was visible, and one could easily tell.

"You're welcome. But lose the 'sir' already."

He said, winking with both eyes. I smiled shyly and nodded. Charles was obviously a nice man. He had been so receptive and welcoming. My only prayer was that the CEO was also nice as well. I never really knew who the CEO of JETON was. I had only heard about his reputation and accomplishments. No one had really said anything about him, and I was curious to know, especially since i would be working directly under him.

Unable to supress my curiousity any longer, i asked Charles.

"Um.. can i ask about the CEO? I mean, what's he like?"

I asked in a tentative manner, not sure what his response would be.

"Well, Mr Hamilton might not exactly be an easy boss to work for. But competence is one thing i'm sure would earn you a smooth working relationship with him. And I'm sure you're diligent and quite competent too."

He motioned towards me, and i nodded in appreciation with a smile. But i could swear i also saw his eyes flicker with a hint of wistfulness.

"But umm.. you need to have thick skin, cos you'll need it."

He added, giving me a look of sympathy and pursing his lips in an understanding way. I knew at that moment that my journey here would not be an easy one. I was a bundle of nerves, but i tried to keep my composure, flashing him a nervous smile. One thing was for sure, and that was the fact that i was more than determined to keep this job.

My mother's health was enough motivation. Even though the CEO was the devil himself, i would work for him. I clearly didn't have a choice in this case.

Even though i had already been provided some initial training, Charles stayed with me patiently explaining the company's chain of command and decision-making process. He also provided information about the company culture.

"Lunch break is around noon. When it's twelve, you can head down to the cafeteria. It offers a variety of delicious food options, and i'm sure you'll love it."

"The cafeteria is located on the third floor of the building. You can take thirty minutes to an hour for lunch."

Charles explained.

At the mention of lunch, i quickly looked at my wristwatch to see that it was already a quarter to twelve, and my belly rumbled in anticipation. I hadn't had breakfast yet, hence, the hunger. Charles smiled in an understanding manner, and i was overcome with embarrassment. He must have heard my belly rumbled. He turned to leave but not before flashing me a friendly smile if there was anything as such, and i returned it with an appreciative nod.

At twelve, i headed to the third floor using my key card to access the employee elevator. I arrived at the cafeteria and sat alone, feeling slightly awkward, even though i pretended not to be.

I hated being the new girl. It was like being a new character in the fifth season of a movie. I felt like a fish out of water rather than part of the crowd. The stares i got from some workers didn't help matters either. But I knew that in no time, i would acclimatise.

The breakfast options were scrambled eggs, sausage, pancakes, oatmeal, fruit, yoghurt, and toast. It was served buffet style, and the glutton in me couldn't resist picking half of all the items in one plate. As soon as i dug in, someone came to join me with his food. It was Charles.

I was more than thankful for his presence. He didn't have to. He was technically my boss, but i knew he was trying his best to keep me company, so i didn't feel lonely. We chatted as we ate. No longer had i finished eating than my phone rang.

It was my boyfriend.

Charles waved me goodbye and left, giving me some privacy to pick up my call.

"How's the latest secretary of JETON?"

Kenneth asked with a playful tone, causing me to giggle. We spoke for a while, and i filled him in on everything that had happened so far, losing track of time. I gasped when i saw that it was a few minutes past one already.

I shot up from my seat and headed towards the elevator back to my floor. Lunch break was supposed to be for thirty minutes. I shouldn't have spent over an hour. I was a newbie, and it was way too early to start abusing privileges.

I heaved a sigh of relief when i finally got to my floor and sat on my desk. I needed to be careful not to get in trouble. I had barely caught my breath when I heard a guttural voice...

"For God's sake, where the hell is the secretary?!"

A voice thundered from inside the CEO's office, and i could feel my heart pounding in my chest.