Amber gives me a sympathetic smile. “I know you are. Just…be prepared. The workload is gonna be intense, and the expectations even higher. And whatever you do, don’t take his criticism personally. It’s just how he is.”
I nod, absorbing her advice. “Thanks, girl. I’ll keep that in mind. Don’t worry.”
“For your sake, I hope so. I don’t wanna lose my bestie to an asylum because of this guy. Call or text me as soon as you settle in, okay?”
“Yes, Mom,” I tease.
The ride to Andrews Enterprise feels like a dream, a slow-paced, hazy dream. Occasionally, I’ll fidget and adjust in my seat, bubbling over with excitement.
“We’re here, Ma’am,” the Uber driver says.
“Thank you.”
I step out of the car and admire the grand entrance.
A smile stretches across my face as I step into the lobby. Sunlight spills through the glass atrium overhead, casting a warm glow on the polished marble floors.
I take a deep breath, caught in the simplicity of the interior: the potted plants lining the white walls, the abstract paintings hanging above the receptionist’s desk, and even the sleek, modern furniture.
Everything is beautifully minimalistic.
Employees mill about with stoic expressions and black suits. I could mistake this for a law firm if I didn’t know better.
But I do know better. This isn’t just any media outlet. Andrews Enterprise is one of the biggest in the country, and not just for their reach alone. They’re always a step ahead of their competition. No other outlet compares to how they cover news, gossip, everything.
A figure ahead catches my eye, commanding attention effortlessly. His face and broad shoulders fill his suit perfectly, tailored to accentuate every contour. His jawline is fit and firm, exuding an air of confidence and masculinity. I allow my eyes to drink in the sight, savoring every inch of his impeccable frame, lost in admiration.
Whoa. Deep breaths, Chloe.
The receptionist, a woman with a smile and a name tag that reads ‘Sarah,’ greets me. Just like everyone else, she’s dressed in a monochrome outfit.
“Welcome to Andrews Enterprise,” she says.
I point toward the handsome man, who is a little away from where I stand. “Is that—”
“Mr. Daniel Andrews. He owns the place.”
I suppress a smile as Amber’s warnings about my new boss come to mind. She clearly has no idea what she was talking about.
The receptionist clears her throat. I chuckle and turn back to face her.
“Thanks, Sarah,” I reply. “Is that a phoenix brooch? Nice.”
She taps the brooch on the lapel of her black blazer, beaming brightly.
“Thanks, Ms.—”
“Summers. Chloe Summers. I’m Mr. Andrews’ new Executive Assistant.”
“Well, in that case, welcome to Andrews Enterprise once again.”
“Thanks, Sarah. If you don’t mind, can you point me toward his office?”
“Of course, that’ll be the top floor. The elevators are down that way. Top floor, second door to your right.”
“Thank you so much, Sarah.”
“You’re welcome.”