Sophie, an ambitious, hardworking intern at a prestigious marketing firm. She's tasked with working under the company's demanding CEO, James Carter, known for his ruthless, authoritative leadership. Their first meeting is tense but sparks fly when Sophie challenges his idea in a meeting. Read and find out what happens next.
Chapter 1 the first Encounter
Sophie stood in front of the large, gleaming office building, adjusting the collar of her blouse and taking a deep breath. Today was the day-her first official day at Carter & Co., the prestigious marketing firm she had landed an internship with. She had spent years dreaming of this moment, working tirelessly to get into the firm that was known for molding the brightest minds in the industry. But today wasn't just another first day-it was the first time she would meet James Carter, the CEO.
James was a legend in the corporate world. His ruthless efficiency and commanding presence were well known, and his reputation was one of a man who didn't tolerate mistakes or distractions. Sophie had heard all the rumors-how he ran the company with an iron fist, how he expected perfection from his employees, and how his sharp, cold gaze had caused even the bravest of people to crumble. Yet, she wasn't intimidated. She had worked too hard to let fear stand in her way.
As she entered the building and made her way to the elevator, Sophie adjusted her bag and reminded herself that she wasn't just another intern. She was smart, capable, and prepared to prove herself.
The elevator doors opened on the top floor, and Sophie stepped out into the sleek, modern office space. Her heart raced as she walked toward the conference room, where she knew James would be waiting. She could already hear the sound of voices and the low hum of conversations.
But as she stepped into the room, everything seemed to freeze.
James Carter sat at the head of the long conference table, his tall, commanding figure silhouetted by the sunlight streaming through the floor-to-ceiling windows. He wore a tailored suit, his dark hair perfectly styled, and his sharp jawline gave him an almost sculptural appearance. His eyes-dark, intense-locked onto Sophie the moment she entered.
She felt a wave of nervous energy, but she didn't let it show. She walked with purpose, extending her hand.
"Good morning, Mr. Carter," she said, keeping her voice steady.
James didn't stand, nor did he offer a smile. He merely regarded her for a moment, his gaze piercing, before shaking her hand firmly. "Sophie, correct?"
"Yes, sir," she replied, trying to keep her voice from trembling.
His lips barely curled into something that could be considered a smile-more of a smirk, really. "Let's get one thing clear, Sophie. You're here because you've earned a spot. Don't think for a second that I'm going to go easy on you just because you're an intern. I expect results, nothing less."
Sophie felt a sharp pang of nervousness but didn't let it show. She had anticipated this, and she was ready to meet his challenge. "Understood, Mr. Carter. I'm here to prove myself."
James studied her for a moment, as though assessing her every word. Then he nodded, the expression in his eyes unreadable. "We'll see about that. You'll be working closely with me on the new project. Don't disappoint me."
As he turned his attention back to the meeting, Sophie couldn't shake the feeling of being scrutinized, analyzed. His words echoed in her mind: Don't disappoint me. But instead of feeling discouraged, something within her sparked. She wasn't about to let this man, this intimidating boss, get the best of her.