Elena sat in Alexander's office, the cityscape sprawling behind him like a spangling shade. She felt a strange blend of exhilaration and apprehension. This was her moment, but the man across from her was a riddle she couldn't fluently unravel.
Alexander steepled his fritters, his aspect of Norway leaving her. " Tell me, Ms. Russo, " he began, " what's your vision for integrating this structure into the civic fabric of New York? "
Elena cleared her throat, gathering her studies. " The Voss Tower is further than just another hutment, " she explained. " It's designed to be a lamp of invention and sustainability. I fantasize about a structure that not only blends with the skyline but also sets a new standard for what's possible in the civic armature. "
Alexander leaned forward slightly, his interest piqued. " Sustainability is a bold angle, " he said. " utmost designs concentrate on aesthetics or maximizing space. What makes you prioritize green armature? "
" It's not just about the structure itself, " Elena replied. " It's about the heritage it leaves. New York is a megacity that constantly evolves, and we've a responsibility to produce structures that aren't just iconic but also unborn- evidence. "
Alexander's eyes narrowed courteously. " And you believe the Voss Tower can achieve that? "
" I do, " Elena said with conviction. " With the right coffers and commitment, we can make it a model for sustainable development. "
He jounced sluggishly, a slight smile tugging at his lips. " You're confident. I like that. But confidence alone isn't enough. This design will face scrutiny from every angle — financially, environmentally, and politically. "
" I understand, " Elena said, holding his gaze. " But I'm set for that. I've faced challenges before, and I'm ready to take on this challenge. "
Alexander's smile widened. " Good. Because this isn't just a design, Ms. Russo. It's a statement. One that will define Voss Enterprises for the coming generation. "
Elena felt an exhilaration of expectation. " I 'm ready to start, " she said. " What's our next step? "
Alexander leaned back in his chair, considering her. " First, we need to finalize the design. I want you to work closely with my platoon. You'll have full access to all the coffers you need. "
" That's further than I could ask for, " Elena said, her excitement slightly contained. " Thank you, Mr. Voss. "
" Call me Alexander, " he said, his voice softening. " And you're welcome. But be apprehensive, this will be demanding. I anticipate nothing lower than excellence. "
" You 'll have it, " Elena promised, her eyes sparkling with determination.
Alexander stood up, motioning for the end of their meeting. " I look forward to seeing what you can do, Elena. Drink to the platoon. "
As she left Alexander's office, Elena felt like she was walking on air. This was the occasion she had pictured — a chance to prove herself on the biggest stage. But there was also a troubling sense of apprehension. Alexander Voss was a redoubtable presence, and she felt that working with him would be anything but straightforward.
She was so lost in her studies that she nearly collided with a youthful man carrying a mound of documents. Papers flew far and wide, and Elena heaved, dropping her portfolio in the process.
" Oh no, I 'm so sorry! " she blatted, kneeling to help him gather the papers.
" It's okay, " the man said, laughing as he knelt beside her. " I should be more careful where I'm going. "
As they gathered the scattered documents, Elena glanced up and met his eyes. He was about her age, with an easy smile and a kind expression.
" Thanks for helping, " he said, offering her a mound of papers. " I'm David, by the way. David Lawson. I'm part of the finance platoon. "
" Elena Russo, " she replied, shaking his hand. " I'm the new mastermind for the Voss Tower design. "
David's eyes widened in recognition. " Oh, you're the one everyone's been talking about. I've heard about the great effects of your designs. "
Elena flushed slightly. " I hope I can live up to the prospects. "
" I 'm sure you will, " David said warmly. " And if you ever need any help with the figures' side effects, feel free to ask. I'm your Joe"
" I might just take you up on that, " Elena said, smiling. " It's nice to meet someone friendly in this place. "
David laughed. " Well, not everyone then's as bogart as they feel. Just give it time. "
Elena jounced, feeling a bit more at ease. " Thanks, David. I'll see you around. "
" Looking forward to it, " he replied, giving her a friendly surge as they went their separate ways.
Later that evening, Elena sat in her small Brooklyn apartment, poring over the arrangements and notes she had gathered from her meeting. Her excitement was tempered by the consummation of just how monumental this design was. But she was determined to rise to the challenge.
Her phone buzzed, breaking her attention. It was a communication from Chloe, her stylish friend and fellow mastermind.
Chloe " How did the big meeting go? "
Elena smiled and snappily compartmented back.
Elena " It was inconceivable. I got the design, and Alexander Voss himself is tête-à-tête involved! "
Chloe's reply was immediate.
Chloe " OMG! Are you working directly with the Ice King? How are you still standing? "
Elena laughed out loud.
Elena " He's violent, but also. Fascinating. This is going to be a wild lift. "
Chloe " I'm so proud of you, Elena! We need to celebrate. Drinks hereafter? "
Elena " Absolutely! I'll need it after the day I've had. "
Elena put down her phone, feeling a warm gleam of satisfaction. Despite the daunting task ahead, she was agitated about what the future held. Working with Alexander would be gruelling, but it was also the chance for a continuance.
She glanced at the timepiece and realized it was late. She had a big day ahead, and she demanded to be stylish. As she prepared for bed, her studies kept drifting back to Alexander's violent blue eyes and the way he'd looked at her, as if seeing commodity no bone differently.
" Get it together, Elena, " she muttered to herself, shaking her head. " This is business, not a love novel. "
But indeed as she said it, she couldn't help but wonder what secrets lay behind those eyes and what challenges — and openings hereafter would bring.