Lucy had been dreaming about this day for years. Ever since she left college, she'd been hopping from one dead-end job to another. Filing papers, answering phones, running errands—it was like she was stuck in the same boring cycle. But today, all of that was about to change.
She had applied to be the personal secretary for Richard Coleman, one of the wealthiest men in the city. The guy was a legend in the business world—a genius, a trailblazer, and practically a household name. She didn't really think she stood a chance when she submitted her resume. After all, she was just Lucy, the girl who still ate microwave dinners and borrowed books from the library because she didn't want to spend money on a Kindle.
But then the email came. We'd like to invite you for an interview.
Her heart had nearly stopped when she saw it. She spent hours researching everything about Coleman Enterprises. She ironed her best blouse, rehearsed answers in the mirror, and watched a ton of YouTube videos about how to ace an interview. And then…she got the job.
That morning, Lucy walked into the skyscraper that housed Coleman Enterprises with her head held high. The receptionist greeted her with a smile and handed her an ID badge with her name on it. "Welcome, Lucy," she said. "Mr. Coleman's office is on the top floor."
Lucy felt like she was floating as she stepped into the sleek elevator. The doors closed, and she stared at her reflection in the shiny surface. She still couldn't believe it. Out of hundreds, maybe thousands of applicants, they had picked her. She clenched her fists to stop herself from squealing like a teenager meeting her favorite pop star.
When the elevator dinged and the doors slid open, a well-dressed woman greeted her. "Lucy, right?" she asked.
"Yes, that's me," Lucy replied, trying not to sound too nervous.
"I'm Vanessa," the woman said, shaking her hand. "I'll be showing you around today. Mr. Coleman's in a meeting, but he'll see you this afternoon. For now, let's get you settled."
Lucy followed Vanessa through the immaculate office. Everything screamed money—from the polished marble floors to the modern art hanging on the walls. Vanessa led her to her desk, which was right outside Mr. Coleman's massive corner office. The desk had a shiny new computer, a sleek phone, and a view of the entire city through floor-to-ceiling windows.
"This is your spot," Vanessa said. "We'll set you up with everything you need. Don't worry, you'll get the hang of it in no time."
Lucy nodded, her hands resting on the desk. It felt unreal. Just a week ago, she was sitting in a cramped cubicle at her old job, praying that her boss wouldn't yell at her for taking too long on her lunch break. And now…this.
By the time lunch rolled around, Lucy was buzzing with excitement. She had met a few of her coworkers, learned how to manage Mr. Coleman's schedule, and even figured out how to use the fancy coffee machine in the break room. The day flew by, and soon it was time to meet the man himself.
Vanessa escorted her into Mr. Coleman's office. The space was just as impressive as the rest of the building, with sleek furniture and a giant desk that could probably double as a dining table. Behind the desk sat Richard Coleman. He was just as she'd imagined—tall, sharp suit, piercing blue eyes, and an air of authority that made you stand a little straighter.
"Lucy," he said, standing to shake her hand. His grip was firm but not crushing. "Welcome aboard. I've heard good things about you."
Lucy blushed. "Thank you, Mr. Coleman. I'm really excited to be here."
"Good," he said, sitting back down. "We move fast here, and I expect my team to keep up. Vanessa will continue to guide you for the first week, but after that, you're on your own. Think you can handle it?"
Lucy nodded. "Absolutely."
"Great," he said, flashing a brief smile. "Let's get to work."
Work began, and Lucy had some much tasks to attend to, but she barely minded. She was just happy to be working for Richard Coleman. By the time 5 p.m. rolled around, Lucy felt like she was on top of the world. She had survived her first day at Coleman Enterprises, and she hadn't messed up—not even once.
She decided she needed to celebrate. There was a cozy little bar just a block away from her new office, and she figured it was the perfect spot to toast to her new job. She texted her best friend, Kelly, and asked her to meet her there.
When Lucy walked into the bar, she felt like she could finally relax. The place was dimly lit, with a warm, inviting vibe. She grabbed a booth near the back and waited for Kelly. A few minutes later, her friend burst through the door, her curly hair bouncing as she hurried over.
"You got the job!" Kelly practically screamed, throwing her arms around Lucy.
"I did!" Lucy said, laughing. "Can you believe it?"
"Of course I can," Kelly said, sliding into the booth. "You're amazing. This is huge, Lucy. Huge!"
They ordered drinks and a plate of nachos to share. Lucy couldn't stop grinning as she told Kelly about her first day—the fancy office, her shiny new desk, and meeting Richard Coleman himself.
"He's intimidating, sure," Lucy said, "but I think I'll learn a lot from him. This is the big break I've been waiting for."
Kelly raised her glass. "To Lucy and her dream job!"
"Cheers!" Lucy said, clinking her glass against Kelly's.
As they laughed and chatted, a bartender walked by their table, pausing for a moment. "Sorry to butt in," he said, his voice low, "but you're talking about Richard Coleman?"
Lucy nodded. "Yeah, why?"
The bartender glanced around like he was making sure no one could hear. Then he leaned in slightly. "You might wanna watch your back with that guy. Word is, he's got a temper like you wouldn't believe."
Lucy's smile faltered. "What do you mean?"
"Let's just say he's not exactly known for being…patient," the bartender said, straightening up. "Anyway, good luck."
Lucy watched him walk away, her excitement started to vanish into thin air. Kelly raised an eyebrow. "What was that about?"
"I don't know," Lucy said, forcing a smile. "But I'm sure it's nothing."
Deep down, though, she couldn't shake the bartender's words from her mind.