Moments later, as they arrived at Hotel Paradise, Sophia's phone buzzed. It was Ethan, as Alex had anticipated. She answered the call, and Ethan's voice came through the line. "Sophia, due to some urgent work, the client has canceled today's lunch with Mr. Blackwood."
Sophia frowned slightly, unsure of how to relay the news to Alex. When the call ended, she turned to him, hesitant. "Mr. Blackwood, Ethan just informed me that our client has canceled the lunch due to some urgent business."
Alex glanced up from his laptop, his expression unreadable. "Is that so?" he mused, then paused before continuing. "Well, Ms. Carter, we've already arrived, and I'm quite hungry. Since the client cancelled, why don't we enjoy the meal ourselves?"
Sophia blinked in surprise. "But—"
"No need to overthink it," Alex cut her off gently, a hint of a smile playing on his lips. "Consider it a chance for us to discuss a few things over lunch."
Realizing there was no point in protesting, Sophia nodded and followed Alex as he stepped out of the car. As they walked into the grand entrance of Hotel Paradise, she couldn't help but feel a mixture of nerves and curiosity. This was far from the professional lunch she had anticipated, and she wondered what Alex might want to discuss.
They were escorted to a private dining room, where the atmosphere was intimate and quiet. Once seated, Alex handed her a menu. "Order whatever you like, Ms. Carter," he said, his tone casual yet commanding. "Think of this as a small reward for managing this morning's tasks so well."
Sophia scanned the menu, her mind still racing. She finally settled on a light salad, still feeling slightly on edge. When the server left, an awkward silence settled between them.
"Ms. Carter," Alex began, breaking the silence, "I want you to know that I value transparency and honesty. If there's anything on your mind—any concerns or thoughts—now would be a good time to share them."
Sophia hesitated, feeling the weight of his words. After a brief pause, she took a deep breath. "Mr. Blackwood, I'm grateful for the opportunity to work with you. But I have to admit, today has been... unexpected. I'm still trying to find my footing in this new role."
Alex's gaze softened, and he nodded. "It's natural to feel that way in the beginning. But remember, you're not alone. I'm here to guide you, and so is Ethan. As long as you're willing to learn, you'll do just fine."
His reassuring words helped ease some of Sophia's tension. For the first time, she felt a genuine connection with Alex, not just as her boss, but as someone who understood the challenges she was facing.
Once again, a silence comes between them after this small conversation. As Alex was thinking of new topic to discuss with her, when he suddenly heard her voice. Mr. Blackwood if you don't mind may I ask you a question? Alex looked at her smilingly and said, yes Ms. Carter, you can. Please go ahead whatever you had in your mind.
Sophia hesitated but then decided to voice her thoughts. "Emm… Mr. Blackwood, I have been curious about something." She took a moment to gather her courage. "Earlier today, as I was coming to see you after completing the HR policies, I overheard some staff discussing that this is the first time you've hired a female personal assistant. Given that Mr. Ethan has been with you since the beginning, why did you decide to bring me on board? What will happen to Ethan's role?"
Alex listened carefully, nodding as she spoke. Once she finished, he replied, "Ms. Carter, as for Ethan, yes, he is my right hand, and there will be no change in his position. However, with our business expanding into foreign markets, it's crucial for him to have someone who can share his burden."
Sophia leaned in, intrigued by his explanation.
"I initially considered hiring a subordinate for him," Alex continued, "but due to some personal issues, Ethan is unable to travel with me overseas for now. So, I hired a personal assistant who can assist me during these important ventures. This way, I address both of my concerns."
Sophia absorbed his words, understanding the thought process behind his decision. "And as for your first question about why I hired you, you'll come to know very soon," Alex added with a hint of a smile.
Sophia felt a mix of curiosity and excitement. Alex's words hinted at something more significant than just the role she had been hired for. It made her eager to prove herself and contribute to the company's growth.
"Thank you for explaining, Mr. Blackwood," she said, feeling more assured. "I appreciate the opportunity and look forward to learning from you."
Alex nodded, pleased with her response. "I'm glad to hear that, Ms. Carter. This partnership will be essential as we move forward."
As their meals arrived, the conversation shifted to lighter topics, but the undercurrent of their discussion lingered, strengthening the budding professional relationship between them.
As the meal concluded, Alex and Sophia settled back into the black Rolls Royce. The driver waited for instructions from Ethan, but when none came, he hesitantly asked, "Boss, may I drive you back to the company?"
Alex turned to Sophia, who was reviewing her notepad. "Ms. Carter, is there anything pressing that requires my presence at the office?"
Sophia carefully scanned her notes before replying, "No, Mr. Blackwood. That's all for today."
Her response, though simple, played perfectly into Alex's plan. He nodded and instructed the driver, "Then let's head to Wellington Heights School."
Sophia's eyes widened in surprise at the mention of the school. She glanced at Alex, who noticed her reaction and explained, "Actually, Ms. Carter, I regularly make donations to the school. Since we have some free time today, I thought I'd utilize it."
Sophia accepted his explanation, though her mind was suddenly flooded with memories of her own time at Wellington Heights. This was the very school where she had spent her childhood, formed lasting friendships, and created countless memories—especially with her best friend Daniel and his older brother.
As the car approached the school, Alex noticed Sophia's distant expression and gently brought her back to the present. "You know, Ms. Carter, this is the school where I spent my entire childhood."
Sophia turned to him with a look of pleasant surprise. "Mr. Blackwood, I spent many years here too. I had some wonderful friends."
Alex smiled, a knowing look in his eyes. "Yes, Ms. Carter, I'm aware of that. It's one of the reasons, along with your capabilities and qualifications, that I chose to hire you."
Sophia was taken aback by his words.