1
CLARA
Here we are, Blaese Industries, I think to myself.
My heart pounds with anticipation as I stand at the entrance of the sleek office building. It's my first day as an intern at this marketing powerhouse. I can barely contain my excitement. My passion for creating innovative strategies led me to this moment.
I will make the most of it.
"Good morning!" I greet the receptionist with a warm smile, trying to hide my nervousness. "I'm Clara Williams, the new intern."
"Ah, Clara! We've been expecting you," she replies with a friendly grin. "Welcome to the team! Let me show you to your desk."
I follow her through the open-concept office space. My eyes take in the hive of activity all around me. Employees huddle together in groups, discussing ideas and strategies, their voices blending into a symphony of productivity. This is the fast-paced environment I've always dreamed of being a part of.
I'm finally here.
As I settle into my workspace, unpacking my laptop and notepad, I glance around at my new colleagues. They're a diverse mix of professionals, each one driven by the same fiery passion for marketing that I possess. I feel a sense of pride swell within me, knowing that I've earned my place among them.
It’s so far from where I’ve come that it’s almost dizzying.
No more trailer park for Clara Williams.
All I have to do is not mess this up. Easy, right?
"Hey there, newbie!" a cheerful voice calls out, snapping me from my reverie.
I look up to see a young woman with vibrant red hair approaching me.
"I'm Ruby, the social media manager. You'll be assisting me with some campaigns during your internship. Ready to dive in?"
"Absolutely!" I reply enthusiastically.
Words can’t describe how grateful I am for this opportunity. To learn from someone who shares my love for innovation.
Throughout the day, I immerse myself in my assigned tasks – organizing client files, conducting market research, and brainstorming ideas for upcoming social media campaigns. My attention to detail and creative thinking skills are put to good use. I'm eager to prove my worth as an intern.
During a break, I go to the company break room to sip coffee and scan the headlines of a marketing magazine. An article about a recent trend catches my eye. I wonder how it could be applied to one of our client's campaigns.
"Interesting read?" a voice asks, interrupting my thoughts.
I glance up to see Alexander Blaese himself standing beside me.
"Definitely," I reply, nervously clutching the magazine. "It's about the latest trend in experiential marketing."
"Ah, yes," he says, nodding thoughtfully. "But shouldn’t you have actual work to occupy you? Or do you generally read on the job?"
My cheeks flush as my blood goes cold.
“Oh, I…I didn’t mean…”
He quickly stalks off to his office. Every employee, except for his bubbly assistant, Julie, looks away as he passes by.
“Don’t take it personally,” Ruby whispers. “He’s just an asshole.”
He’s also the boss, and I’ve made a terrible first impression. Hands shaking, I get back to work, pouring everything I have into our latest social media campaign. My anxiety fades a bit as my skill for marketing takes over. However, as I share my ideas with Ruby, I can’t help but glance over to Mr. Blaese’s office.
He’s watching me.