"Ms. Carter, your first task for today is to place an order for my breakfast. I'm feeling very hungry right now," Alex said, his tone calm but with an underlying command that was impossible to miss.
Sophia straightened up in her seat and responded, "Sure, sir. What would you like to have for breakfast? I'll order it right away."
Alex looked at her with a serious expression and replied, "Ms. Carter, please order something of your choice, but make sure it's light in taste."
Sophia nodded and took out her notepad to jot down some ideas. She quickly decided on a balanced breakfast of fresh fruit, whole-grain toast, and a soft-boiled egg—something light yet satisfying. As she began placing the order, Alex discreetly sent a text message to Ethan. The message read:
"Ethan, inform Ms. Carter about the lunch meeting at Hotel Paradise with our clients. But make sure to mention that it's still on, even though I've canceled it. I want to spend some personal time with her."
Ethan, who was still in his office, received the message and immediately understood the situation. He chuckled to himself, appreciating Alex's subtle maneuvering. After finishing the text, he prepared himself to inform Sophia as instructed.
Meanwhile, as Sophia finalized the breakfast order, Alex leaned back in his chair, observing her with a thoughtful gaze. Once she had finished, he asked, "I hope Ethan has introduced you to your responsibilities well. Still, if you feel confused about anything, please don't hesitate to ask me. It will be good for both of us, as it will help eliminate any chances of mistakes."
Sophia looked up from her notes and met Alex's eyes. "Thank you, Mr. Blackwood. Ethan did explain everything quite thoroughly, but I appreciate your openness. I'll make sure to clarify anything I'm uncertain about."
Alex nodded, satisfied with her response. "Good. I expect nothing less than excellence, Ms. Carter. But remember, we're a team now. Communication is key."
Sophia smiled, feeling both the weight of responsibility and the opportunity to prove herself in this new role. "Understood, sir."
Just then, Ethan knocked lightly on the door and entered. "Ms. Carter, I just wanted to inform you that Mr. Blackwood has a lunch meeting scheduled today at Hotel Paradise with some clients. Please ensure everything is arranged accordingly."
Sophia made a quick note of it, unaware that the meeting had already been canceled. "Of course, Ethan. I'll make sure everything is prepared."
Alex watched the exchange with a hidden smile. Everything was falling into place just as he had planned. His thoughts wandered to the lunch at Hotel Paradise, already anticipating how he would use that time to connect with Sophia on a more personal level.
After Ethan finished briefing Sophia about the lunch meeting, he turned to Alex and respectfully asked, "Sir, may I take my leave now?"
Alex nodded, "Yes, Ethan. Thank you."
As Ethan exited the room, Alex turned his attention back to Sophia. "Ms. Carter, by the end of the day, please get tomorrow's schedule from Ethan and make sure to follow it from then on. For today, he's already informed you about the Board meeting scheduled for 11:30 a.m. I need you to make all the necessary arrangements for that meeting."
Sophia nodded, quickly absorbing his instructions.
Alex continued, "Also, please ensure my breakfast is delivered to me as soon as it arrives. You have one hour to complete these tasks; it's already 10:30."
Sophia felt a surge of determination. "Understood, sir. I'll take care of everything."
Without wasting any time, Sophia left Alex's office and made her way to the meeting room on the same floor. She quickly inspected the room to ensure everything was in order—fresh water bottles on the table, notepads and pens neatly placed at each seat, and the presentation equipment functioning properly. Satisfied with the setup, she instructed the support staff to remain on standby for any last-minute requirements.
Next, she returned to her desk, checking the status of Alex's breakfast order. She followed up with the kitchen to ensure it was on schedule, making sure they knew how important it was that the meal be delivered promptly.
Once everything was in motion, Sophia took a deep breath, feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. She glanced at the clock—10:55. There was just enough time to make one last sweep of the meeting room and deliver Alex's breakfast before the board members started arriving.
Sophia entered Alex's cabin, carefully balancing the tray with his breakfast. She walked gracefully to his desk and set it down with a smile. "Sir, here is your breakfast. I hope you like it."
Alex glanced at the meal and nodded approvingly. He took a bite, savoring the flavor before looking up at her. "You have a good taste, Ms. Carter. From tomorrow onward, arranging breakfast will be your first task of the day. I usually prefer homemade food, but since my maid is on leave for the next month," he paused, weaving the lie seamlessly, "you'll need to handle this for me."
Sophia accepted his words without question. For someone like Mr. Blackwood, it made perfect sense that he wouldn't have time to cook his own meals. Watching him enjoy the breakfast, she hesitated for a moment before speaking up. "Sir, if you don't mind, I could bring your breakfast from my home. I prepare my own meals, and it would be no trouble for me to make an extra portion. That way, you wouldn't have to rely on takeout."
Alex paused, caught off guard by her offer. The idea of having her personally prepare his breakfast was appealing in ways he hadn't expected. He could already imagine the personal touch in each meal she would bring, a small but significant connection between them.
His expression softened slightly, though he maintained his usual composure. "That's a kind offer, Ms. Carter," he said, his tone more thoughtful now. "But I don't want to impose on you. If you're sure it wouldn't be too much trouble, I'll accept. Just make sure it doesn't interfere with your other responsibilities."
Sophia smiled, feeling a sense of accomplishment. "It's no trouble at all, sir. I'll make sure to bring something you'll enjoy."
Alex nodded, finishing his breakfast as a sense of satisfaction washed over him. As she tidied up and prepared to leave, he found himself looking forward to tomorrow's breakfast, not just for the food but for the small glimpse it might offer into Sophia's life.