# 9
Alexa stood in front of her wardrobe, scanning the rows of clothes with a critical eye. She wanted to make a good impression on her first day as a secretary, but she didn't want to overdo it either. After a few minutes of deliberation, she settled on a black pencil skirt and a green blouse, pairing them with matching green shoes. She took a step back to admire herself in the mirror, satisfied with the professional yet stylish look.
Downstairs, Leonard was waiting for her, his eyes widening in shock as he took in her appearance. For a moment, he just stood there, speechless. Alexa felt a flutter in her chest as she wondered if she had overdone it after all.
Finally, Leonard found his voice. "Wow, Alexa, you look stunning," he said, his eyes still fixed on her.
Alexa smiled, feeling a blush rise to her cheeks. "Thank you, Leonard. I was hoping to make a good impression."
Leonard's gaze lingered on her for a moment before he spoke again. "You have no idea how proud I am of you, Alexa. I know you didn't have the qualifications for the job, but I knew you had the determination to succeed. That's why I put in the effort to get you the position."
Alexa's heart swelled with gratitude. "Thank you, Leonard. I promise to do well and make you proud. I won't let you down."
Leonard smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "I know you won't, Alexa. And remember, I'll always be here for you, no matter what."
Together, they left the house, Leonard dropping her off at the office with a reassuring smile. Alexa felt a sense of confidence wash over her as she stepped out of the car, knowing that she had Leonard's support behind her.
As Alexa arrived at the office, she was greeted by her new colleagues, who welcomed her with warm smiles and firm handshakes. She was led on a tour of the facility, introduced to various departments, and shown to her own office. The room was classy and modern, with a sleek wooden desk, a comfortable leather chair, and a large window that let in plenty of natural light.
"Welcome to your new workspace," her guide said, handing her a folder containing her schedule and tasks. "If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask."
Alexa nodded, taking a deep breath as she began to settle in. She spent the morning learning the ropes, slowly getting the hang of her new responsibilities.
At lunchtime, she started to tidy up her desk, preparing to head to the canteen. Just as she was about to leave, the door opened and a familiar voice spoke.
"I heard I had a new secretary. I just wanted to come see how she's doing."
Alexa's head jerked up, her eyes widening in shock as she saw Leonard standing in the doorway, a warm smile on his face.
"Leonard! What are you doing here?" she exclaimed, laughter bubbling up as the surprise wore off.
Leonard chuckled, walking into the office. "I'm the real owner of this enterprise, Alexa. I didn't want you to know because I knew you wouldn't have accepted the job."
Alexa's eyes sparkled with amusement as she shook her head. "You sneaky thing!"
Leonard grinned, taking a seat in the chair opposite her desk. "So, how's it going? Is it too overwhelming?"
Alexa sighed, rubbing her temples. "It's tiring, but I'm sure it's just because it's my first day. Once I get used to it, it won't be so stressful anymore."
Leonard nodded encouragingly. "That's the spirit! You'll do great. Now, have you had lunch yet?"
Alexa shook her head. "I was just about to go to the canteen."
Leonard stood up, holding out his hand. "Let me take you to a restaurant nearby. My treat."
Alexa smiled, taking his hand. "I'd like that."
*****
Valle sprang into action as the rogue wolves attacked, their snarls and snapping jaws filling the air. He swiped his claws across the first wolf's side, leaving deep gashes that made it yelp in pain. Valle quickly turned to face the second wolf, dodging its snapping jaws and getting behind it. With a swift bite, he took down the second wolf, its body crumpling to the ground.
But the fight was far from over. The rest of the pack closed in, their eyes blazing with fury. Valle spun around, using his agility to avoid their attacks. He swiped at one wolf, sending it tumbling into the underbrush. The others kept coming, trying to wear him down with their numbers.
Valle knew he had to give it his all if he wanted to win. He summoned every last bit of strength and unleashed a fierce blast of energy. The wolves flew backward, crashing into the trees and sending leaves flying everywhere. Valle stood tall, his chest heaving with exhaustion, as he surveyed the aftermath of the battle.
When the dust settled, Valle stood victorious. He was exhausted, but he felt a sense of pride and accomplishment. He had defended himself against overwhelming odds. He had proven that he was a force to be reckoned with, a true alpha.
As he caught his breath, Valle looked around at the aftermath of the battle. The wolves lay scattered, some of them whimpering in pain. Valle felt a pang of sympathy for them, but he knew he had done what he had to do. He had protected himself and his territory.
Valle took a moment to collect himself, then began to make his way back through the forest. He was tired and hurt, but he knew he couldn't stop yet. He had to keep moving forward, no matter what challenges lay ahead. He had to find a way to heal his wounds and regain his strength.
As he walked, Valle couldn't help but think about the fight. He had been outnumbered and outmatched, but he had emerged victorious. He had proven that he was a true warrior, a fighter. He felt a sense of pride and satisfaction, knowing that he had defended himself and his territory.