The energy at NovaTech was electric. Today wasn't just any day; it was the day of the grand launch—the event that would officially introduce NovaTech to the world.
Everyone in the building could feel the anticipation humming in the air.
It was early in the day, but already the newly hired staff—nearly ninety—were gathered in the lobby, buzzing with curiosity.
They had come from various fields—tech, marketing, customer service, and legal—and were ready to dive into their roles.
But today was more than just an introduction to their jobs. It was about preparing for the grand event that would take place tonight.
David Turner stood at the front of the group, his calm but commanding presence drawing everyone's attention.
As one of the most respected figures in Novan City, his involvement had lent NovaTech an air of credibility and stability. The staff knew the company had serious potential if David was part of this.
Next to him stood Jessica, Ethan's assistant. She carried a different kind of authority, sharp and efficient. Known for her ability to get things done, she was currently looking over the day's agenda on her tablet.
They made an impressive team together.
Yet, a sense of mystery lingered in the air—everyone eagerly awaited the arrival of NovaTech's founder, Ethan Cole, the Chairman himself.
None of them, the newly hired, had the chance to see him in person, and based on rumors alone, they were amazed by how someone so young could be the mastermind behind such an ambitious project.
Well, the people spreading the rumors were coming from the two property agencies. One that ridiculed Ethan and the other one from Jessica's previous workplace.
Oh. We should not forget about Suzanne, too. She was lucky because Ethan was clueless about the laws regarding disclosing other's information to the public.
But that was what made Suzanne and the others feel really hard to resist. When NovaTech was making its wave with its lucrative salaries, there would surely be people who wished to be riding on it.
Things like NovaTech's Mysterious Founder, Who is Behind NovaTech, Young Tycoon, and so on became their clickbaits. Well, not all of them were giving out the right information.
David cleared his throat, bringing everyone to attention. "Good morning, everyone," he began, his deep voice cutting through the murmurs. "I'm David, and Jessica is joining me today."
"Welcome to NovaTech. I know many of you are eager to get started in your roles," he paused.
It had been a while too for him to be speaking to this many people. Truthfully, he was nervous, too, but still managed to keep his calm.
"Today, we've gathered you here to give you a sense of what we're building and, most importantly, to prepare for tonight's grand launch," David continued.
The room shifted with excitement. Applause was heard, and whispers broke out as people exchanged glances, knowing this wasn't just another tech company.
David smiled, feeling the excitement. "NovaTech is not just a job. It's a company that believes innovation grows when creativity is encouraged. Today, you will tour the building, meet your teams, and learn how we want you to work here. Tonight, we will introduce ourselves to the world."
Jessica moved closer. They had agreed that both of them would do the talking.
She started speaking in a professional yet approachable manner. "You're involved in something significant that will have a big impact. Before we start, let's make sure you know where you are."
As they brought the group to the main area of the building, the staff watched in curiosity and surprise. The NovaTech headquarters looked different from any office they had worked in before.
"We don't believe in cubicles or traditional offices here," David explained as they walked through a wide-open workspace.
"Everything is designed to be flexible. You can work anywhere in the building. Choose a spot by a window, join a group at a standing desk, or relax in a lounge area. We want you to feel comfortable, to think creatively," David continued with enthusiasm.
One of the new software engineers, a young woman named Kara, raised her hand. "So, we don't have fixed desks?"
Jessica grinned, anticipating the question. "Exactly. You don't have to stay at your desk all day. You can move around, work with different teams, or work from home when you need to. We trust you to manage your own time."
The staff nodded in excitement. This work felt different; it was more than just a job. They walked through the workspace, and soon, Jessica pointed to a large room with glass walls.
"This is the Recharge Zone," she said with a smile.
Everyone in the group gasped. They saw nap pods, bean bags, gaming consoles, and a mini library. Some people blinked in surprise while others whispered excitedly to each other.
"We believe you need balance to be productive," Jessica said. "This is the place to take a break. Recharge your mind and body, and come back to your work feeling refreshed."
"Wow," a marketing assistant said quietly. "I have never seen anything like this before."
David smiled at their reactions, and his eyes showed his amusement."And it gets better. Let's head to the cafeteria."
He was pretty excited, too, for this day. This was all Ethan's idea of how he wanted NovaTech to operate. Ethan was impressed with the facilities and the environment provided by one of the headquarters of one of the biggest search engine companies, Yezza, which did it.
So, he wanted to have the same concept but much better with NovaTech. David was excited by the idea, and of course, his wife was the one listening to his excitement every single day.
She was happy for him. After years of being the hope for others, David was shown a better way to do it. She was grateful for Ethan. David had been told a few times to bring Ethan for lunch or dinner at their home.
But Ethan was too busy with many other things that David himself did not know what. Still, as long as all the jobs were being done, David had no problem with it.
David and Jessica led the group to the cafeteria. This modern space looked more like a fancy café than a regular lunchroom. The air was filled with the smell of fresh coffee and baked goods.
"Everything here is free for employees," David said, pointing to the food stations. "Breakfast, lunch, and snacks are all on us. We want you to focus on your work, not on where your next meal comes from."
"Oh. If you want to take some home, please feel free to do so," David added.
Mike, a new customer service lead, looked at his colleague with wide eyes. "I think I'm in the wrong company… this place is paradise!"
The staff laughed, but the awe was real. It was clear that NovaTech wasn't just about tech innovation and redefining the workplace culture.
As the group continued their tour, their admiration for NovaTech grew. But there was still a lingering curiosity about the man behind it all.
Finally, as they approached the boardroom—a sleek, glass-walled space with stunning views of Novan City's skyline—David paused.
"Now," he said, lowering his voice slightly, "I know many of you are curious about our founder, Ethan Cole. Well, you're about to meet him."
The staff's excitement shifted into nervous anticipation. The glass doors opened automatically, and now, everyone could see him.
Ethan stood at the head of the table, looking out at the city skyline with his back to the room. When he turned to face everyone, the room became quiet for a moment.
Ethan's appearance had changed over time, enhanced by his recent boost in attributes. He had a sharper jawline and more intense eyes. His presence was more noticeable than ever. His dark hair looked well-styled, and his tailored suit made him look like a young CEO.
"Why does he look different?" both Jessica and David muttered at the same time. They exchanged glances but knew well that it was not the time for that.
Ethan's looks attracted people, but it was his charisma that truly engaged them. He didn't need to speak to capture attention.
David and Jessica moved to his side before gesturing for Ethan to take the floor. "It's your turn, boss."
Ethan smiled confidently. He had been doing image training for this moment for God knows how many times already. He was more than prepared but still could not fully get rid of the nervousness.
"Welcome to NovaTech," Ethan began, his voice smooth but purposeful. "It's good to finally meet all of you."
The staff stood in awe, eyes locked on the young CEO. Many of them had expected someone older, more seasoned—but Ethan defied all those expectations. He was young, but his words carried a strong aura that made people stop and listen.
"I know some of you may be asking," Ethan said, looking around the room, "why a guy my age is leading a company like this. And I get it."
He paused with a smile before adding, "But what I want you to understand is that NovaTech isn't just another company. It's a vision. A vision that we're building together."
The room was quiet, listening closely to what he said.
"I believe that innovation means taking risks and thinking differently," Ethan said, gaining confidence in his voice. "We are here to challenge the way things are done. You were chosen not only because you are good at your jobs but also because you are ready to be part of something bigger."
The staff looked at each other. They understood the importance of what he said. This was not just a job; it was a chance to be part of something new and important.
"Tonight," Ethan said while looking at everyone, "is just the beginning. The grand launch is about introducing NovaTech to the world. But we're not here to follow trends. We're here to set them. We're here to lead."
As he spoke, the staff could feel the energy in the room rising. Ethan's passion was infectious.
"You were chosen," Ethan said firmly. "because you have what it takes to make this vision come true. I believe in all of you. So, let's make tonight count. Let's show the world what NovaTech is really about."
A ripple of murmurs ran through the group. They were inspired, ready to start, and be part of something extraordinary.
Jessica stepped forward and noticed a change in the atmosphere. "We have department meetings planned for the rest of the afternoon. You will have time to meet your teams, get to know your roles, and prepare for tonight."
The staff nodded, energized and eager to dive in. Many couldn't stop discussing the day's events as they approached their meetings.
"Our boss is amazing," one of the new engineers said to her colleague. "I didn't think he would be so young, but he has a strong presence."
A marketing lead said, "He's not just good-looking—he really knows his stuff. You can see he takes this seriously."
Watching the staff file out, David turned to Jessica with a satisfied grin. "I think we're in good hands."
Jessica smiled back and nodded. "No doubt about it."
"In just a few days, he had changed that much," added Jessica.
"Oh? You've noticed it, too? I thought my eyes were playing tricks on me, or it was all because of his attire," said David.
Jessica chuckled. "He seemed different. Too different." She paused before adding, "However, the changes are positive, so I've no problem with it. In fact, I feel at ease."
David nodded in agreement. He shared the same feeling. He believed that he had made the right decision this time around, trusting his future for Ethan. Besides, he believed that he had done everything possible to be of help.
However, there were a few things that David did not put much emphasis on. The things regarding the Great Families. That was what going to be the first fatal mistake.
Edited: 21 December 2024
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