A line of cars stopped at the gate of a vast complex. A lady, clad in a designer suit that exuded elegance and sophistication, emerged, her strappy heels clicking a sharp counterpart to the murmurs that rippled through the gathered crowd. Her expression was unreadable as she raised her head to survey the scene. A young man hurried to her side and whispered something, his hurried whisper barely audible over the growing disquiet.
"Everything in order, James?" She inquired, her voice a low, steady current.
James, ever the efficient assistant, nodded curtly. "Yes, Boss. Though, whispers of your appointment only reached the lower rungs yesterday. The senior executives seem...unprepared."
A hint of steel flickered in her eyes, a flicker quickly masked by a neutral expression. She strode towards the entrance, several men followed, who arrived with her.
Guards and security personnel stood rigid at attention, a stark contrast to the growing swarm around the revolving door. A group of middle-aged men, their faces showing a mixture of curiosity and trepidation, held bouquets of flowers.
Approaching them, she stood majestically before them. The men, shuffling forward awkwardly, offered their flowers and greetings.
"Welcome on your first day in the office, Lady Boss," the seniormost man took the lead with several following.
She accepted the flowers, her gaze sweeping over the remaining men. A subtle crease formed between her brows. "Is this your way of welcoming me? Employee productivity is measured by working hours. With everyone standing here, how many hours of work are being hampered?" Her voice was firm and steady, accompanied by a penetrating gaze.
A sudden silence fell over the crowd as they froze, nervously glancing around. They attempted to explain, but she raised her hand to stop them.
"All directors and senior executives," she began, her voice cold yet oppressive. "Join me in the conference room within the hour with reports covering the last five years. Let's get down to business, shall we?"
With relaxed shoulders, that contrasted the tension she'd created, she bypassed the remaining men, without another glance and headed towards her office. The employees remained rooted in their spots, a mixture of awe and apprehension hanging heavy in the air. The senior executives, however, scurried away, their hand sweaty with panic and initial attempt of pleasantries were forgotten.
Settling into the plush swivel chair behind the expansive desk, her gaze surveyed the spacious office, coloured in shades of grey and white. Floor-to-ceiling glass panels bathed the room in natural light, offering a breathtaking view of the bustling city below. A balcony adorned the northern wall, while a massive file holder dominated the opposite side. In the center, a large grey couch sat opposite a sleek coffee table.
A soft knock announced James' arrival. She arched an eyebrow, silently inquiring.
"There seems to be a slight…occupancy issue, Boss," James began, his voice strained. "Several offices on this floor are already occupied, leaving less space for our team."
She leaned back, twirling a pen thoughtfully. "Evacuate them. I want only my people on this floor."
James nodded, turning to leave, then paused. "Perhaps a brief announcement to the staff would be—"
"Gather everyone here," She interrupted, a glint in her eyes.
Ten minutes later, twenty-one men in black suits stood expectantly before her. Rising from her chair, She leaned against the desk, her posture radiating authority.
"Is this floor so captivating, that you can't take your eyes off ?" she queried, a hint of amusement playing on her lips. Her fingers drummed a steady rhythm on the desk.
"You were handpicked from a vast pool of applicants," she continued, her voice commanding respect. "I expect meticulous, well-planned, and exceptional work from each of you. Remember, you represent me. Your voice should carry weight. Do not be intimidated by higher positions or established names. Understood?"
A chorus of "Yes, Boss!" echoed in response, the men's faces etched with determination, a product of their rigorous selection process and intensive training.
A ghost of a smile played on her lips as she observed their enthusiasm. "Now, divide yourselves into three groups of six. The remaining three will accompany me."
Confusion flickered across their faces for a moment before she pointed to the three men she'd already chosen. The rest efficiently divided as instructed.
"Lastly," She addressed the room, her voice taking on a more serious tone, " I believe in equal opportunity based on merit, not gender. There will be no room for unhealthy competition here."
With a dismissive wave, she ushered them out, then stood before the glass, overlooking the bustling city below. Her thoughts drifted; today felt new, yet inevitable. This was her place, where she belonged and where she should be.