Page 6 of Bossalicious Bad Boy

"Thank you, Mr. Blaese," Clara says, her eyes shining with gratitude. "I am truly grateful for the opportunity to intern here, and I promise to continue giving it my all."

"Excellent. That's precisely what I like to hear," I reply, nodding in approval. "Keep up the good work, Clara."

"Thank you, sir. I won't let you down," she vows, her gaze unwavering.

As I turn to walk away, I feel a sense of satisfaction. In Clara, I've found not only a worthy addition to my team but also someone who shares my values and drive for success. With her on board, there's no doubt that this company will continue to thrive under the guiding principles of control and order.

* * *

As I sip my freshly brewed coffee, I mull over the conversation I had with Clara the other day. Her professionalism and dedication to her work are truly impressive. It's clear she has the potential to bring even more value to this company.

"Clara," I call out as she walks past my office door, her heels clicking against the polished floor. "Could you come in for a moment?"

"Of course, Mr. Blaese," she replies, stepping inside and closing the door behind her.

Her posture is impeccable, her eyes meeting mine with unwavering confidence.

"Take a seat," I say, gesturing to the chair across from my desk. As she sits down, I take a deep breath and compose my thoughts. "Clara, your performance during your internship has been exceptional. You've consistently gone above and beyond in your tasks, and your commitment to the success of this company is commendable."

"Thank you, sir. I genuinely appreciate that," she responds, her voice steady and sincere.

"Given your outstanding work, I believe it's only fair that you be rewarded accordingly," I continue, watching her expression intently. "Therefore, effective immediately, I'm promoting you to the position of junior project manager. This new role comes with a raise and additional responsibilities, which I have no doubt you will excel at."

"Mr. Blaese, thank you so much!" Clara exclaims, her eyes lighting up with gratitude. "I can't tell you how much this means to me. I promise you won't regret this decision."

"Your track record speaks for itself, Clara," I reassure her, feeling the weight of her gratitude. "I have every confidence that you'll continue to make significant contributions to our company."

"Thank you again, sir," she says, her voice filled with determination. "I won't let you down."

As she rises from her seat and exits my office, I feel a sense of pride. I've found an exceptional employee. With her in this new role, I have no doubt that our company will continue to flourish.

When I return to my work, it occurs to me that perhaps, in fostering Clara's growth and development, I might have just found a way to regain a semblance of the human connection. One I lost in my relentless pursuit of control and order all these years.

The sun dips low in the sky, casting long shadows across my office floor. Moments ago, I offered Clara a well-deserved promotion, and now she leaves my office with renewed energy and enthusiasm. Her passion and dedication invigorate me as well, and I can't help but watch her retreating figure through the glass walls of my office.

"Alex," I tell myself, "you've made the right decision."

My thoughts race, my heart swells with pride, and I'm eager to see what new heights our company will reach with her on board.

"Sir?" Julie interrupts my thoughts. "Is there anything else you need?"

"Actually, yes." A plan begins to form in my mind. "Schedule a follow-up meeting with Clara in two weeks."

"Of course, Mr. Blaese," Julie replies, making a note on her tablet.

"Thank you, Julie." I smile at her before turning away, my focus shifting back to Clara.

Through the glass, I see her sit at her desk, already diving into her work with fervor. The other employees notice, and I sense a contagious ripple effect, raising the overall productivity in the room.

As the evening wears on, the office slowly empties out, leaving just Clara and me. Lost in her world of concentration, she barely seems to notice the time. It reminds me of myself when I first started this company. Endless hours spent at my desk, determined to succeed.

"Clara," I call out, striding towards her. She looks up, startled by my presence. "It's late. Go home and rest. You've earned it."

"Thank you, Mr. Blaese," she responds, her eyes shining with gratitude. "I'll be back bright and early tomorrow, ready to tackle my new role."

"Good," I say, nodding my approval. "I'm looking forward to it."

We exchange smiles, and she gathers her belongings.

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