Alex's first week at Hamilton Corp had been intense, but he was starting to get into the rhythm. His desk was right outside Mr. Hamilton's office, giving him a front-row seat to the high-powered corporate world. He'd managed to keep up with the demanding schedule, but there was always a lingering tension in the air whenever his boss was around.
As Alex was organizing his notes one morning, he noticed someone hovering near his desk. He looked up to see a young man with dark hair and an easygoing smile, though his eyes held a hint of caution.
"Hey, you're the new assistant, right? Alex?" the guy asked, his voice low.
"Yeah, that's me," Alex replied, surprised but glad to see a friendly face. "And you are?"
"Liam Zen. I work in Marketing," he said, extending his hand. Alex shook it, noticing that Liam's grip was firm but quick, almost as if he didn't want to linger too long. "I just wanted to say... well, good luck."
"Thanks," Alex replied, trying to keep his tone light. "Seems like I'll need it. I've heard Mr. Hamilton's a bit… intense."
Liam nodded, glancing around to make sure no one was within earshot. "Listen," he continued in a lower voice, "I don't mean to scare you, but be careful working with him. People don't stick around long as his assistant."
Alex frowned. "Why's that?"
Liam shrugged, his expression uneasy. "No one really knows. All I'm saying is, he has… high expectations, and he can be unpredictable. Just watch your back, okay?"
Alex's unease grew, but he forced a smile. "I appreciate the warning."
Before he could ask more, a voice cut through the air, deep and unmistakable.
"Alex."
Both of them turned to see Drake Hamilton standing by his office door, his gaze focused solely on Alex. His face was unreadable, yet his presence commanded attention, filling the entire room with an almost palpable intensity.
"Mr. Hamilton!" Alex replied, heart racing. He quickly straightened his posture.
Drake's gaze shifted briefly to Liam, who seemed to tense up instantly. "I need you in my office. Now."
"Yes, sir," Alex stammered, taking a step forward. He glanced back at Liam, hoping for a reassuring look, but was startled to see Liam's face pale. Without a word, Liam took a few steps back, his posture rigid as if he couldn't get away fast enough.
"Uh… good luck, Alex," Liam whispered, his voice barely audible. He gave Alex a quick, tense nod before turning on his heel and walking briskly down the hallway, glancing over his shoulder once as if to make sure he wasn't being followed.
Confused, Alex watched Liam disappear around the corner, his mind racing. Why had Liam looked so unsettled? And what was it about Mr. Hamilton that made people act this way?
"Alex." The sharp tone pulled him back to reality. Drake stood by the door, his gaze unyielding. "Inside. Now."
"Yes, sir," Alex replied, forcing his legs to move. Taking a deep breath, he stepped into the office, feeling as if he were crossing an invisible threshold into a world he didn't fully understand.