Emma returned home happier than she left the office earlier, she dropped her bag and entered the kitchen, Ana was picking grapes from the fridge and putting it into her mouth when she noticed Emma had come back.
Hey you're back, how was your first day, how many heads turned, Ana asked excitedly as she wanted the full gist.
Well you won't believe it...,Emma started.
Oh my Goodness, All this happened under 24 hours, Ana questioned and Emma nodded.
Also Ryan dropped me back, Emma said and Ana giggled.
Is the start of something, She teased.
Of course not, He was just being nice and offered to drop me home.
Funny how he changed from the rude, attractive guy to the expressionless somewhat nice man, Ana said and Emma rolled her eyes.
I'll go take shower, I really need to sleep.
Goodnight Em, Ana said as she went up to the room.
******
The next morning, Emma woke up determined. She wanted to make a strong impression and learn everything she could about XX Marketing to ensure her projects were never rejected again. She arrived at the office early, the building still quiet and mostly empty.
Walking through the silent hallways, Emma felt a sense of calm. She relished the quiet moments before the hustle and bustle of the workday began. She settled at her desk and dove into her work, reviewing past projects and company materials, trying to absorb as much information as possible.
Time flew by as she immersed herself in research. She was so focused that she didn't notice the soft footsteps approaching until they stopped right in front of her desk. Startled, Emma looked up to find Ryan standing there, his presence commanding and calm.
"Good morning, Emma," he said, his voice smooth and polite.
She quickly stood up, feeling a rush of nerves. "Good morning, Mr. Turner."
Ryan smiled slightly. "Please, call me Ryan."
"Ryan," she corrected herself, feeling a bit more at ease. "I didn't realize anyone else was here this early."
He glanced around the empty office floor. "I often come in early. It's a good time to get some uninterrupted work done. I see you're the same."
Emma nodded. "I wanted to get a head start, learn more about the company, and make sure I understand everything thoroughly. I don't want any more of my projects to be rejected."
Ryan's expression softened, and he nodded in approval. "That's a good attitude to have. I appreciate your dedication. If you ever need help or have questions, feel free to ask. We're all here to support each other."
"Thank you," Emma said, genuinely grateful for his offer.
Ryan lingered for a moment, as if contemplating something, then added, "I noticed your potential from the beginning, Emma. Don't let one setback discourage you. Every successful project starts with understanding and effort, and you're on the right path."
Emma felt a surge of determination. "I won't let you down."
He nodded again, satisfied. "I know you won't. Keep up the good work."
As he turned to leave, Emma watched him go, feeling a renewed sense of confidence. His words had given her the boost she needed. She sat back down and refocused on her work, more determined than ever to excel.
The morning passed quickly, and as the office began to fill with other employees, Emma continued to immerse herself in her tasks, her mind clear and focused. The early encounter with Ryan had set a positive tone for the day, and she was ready to tackle whatever came her way.
By the time lunchtime rolled around, Emma had already made significant progress. She felt more confident in her understanding of the company and its projects. As she joined her colleagues in the break room, she couldn't help but smile. The future at XX Marketing was looking brighter, and she was ready to face it head-on.
She wasn't close with anyone in her team yet so it was a surprise when her team leader Andrew sat beside her.
Um, Hey Emma?, he asked and She nodded.
You were sitting alone and I thought maybe you needed some kind of company, Andrew said and you smiled.
Thanks but I'm fine, I actually prefer being alone, Emma said and Andrew looked disappointed before he left.
As soon as he left, someone else sat with her, she seemed new also so they instantly bonded, Her name was Lisa but she was in her final year in college so she was excited.
I heard that they would be holding a dinner for the new employees, Are you going to be there?, Lisa asked and Emma shook her head.
I don't really feel the need to go.
You should..., The guys at the company are cute, I would've pursued them but i have someone I'm interested in, Lily smiled and looked away not feeling too hungry anymore.
She went back to work but not so long everybody had started to leave,she could tell it was because of the welcome dinner but she didn't want to partake in it.
She was prepared to go back home when Lily came and pulled her..
I'm not listening,We are going to the welcome party,Emms tried to object but Lily didn't leave a room for her to do that.
Arriving at the diner,it wasn't a fancy restaurant but it had lots of customers,The environment was cheerful full of smiley faces and laughs.
They arrived at their table with the whole crew and they started eating.
The CEO never shows up for any welcome party,so we're most definitely not expecting him here,The HR manager said.
Let's drink, c'mon guys, He added and just at that minutes the table fell silent and Emma could feel chillness emanating from behind her,She turned her head backwards to see why everyone stopped having fun and was awfully silent.
Standing behind her was...Ryan,he had an unreadable expression which made everyone even more confused as he had never Once showed up for the welcome party.