Cindy walked into Cross Construction Company, where Adrian Cross was the CEO. Adrian was a no-nonsense man. He never smiled, never tolerated excuses, and was known for being extremely strict with his employees. Cindy stepped into the boardroom where the interview was being conducted. The board members were already seated. The moment her eyes landed on Adrian Cross, fear crept into her chest. He didn't smile. He didn't acknowledge her greeting. He simply looked at her like she was another document to be reviewed. Adrian examined Cindy carefully and found her qualified for the position of personal assistant.
"Your résumé states that you are a graduate of Accountancy," Adrian said without looking at her. "You seem fit for the position. Do you want the job or not?"
Cindy didn't hesitate. She agreed immediately. She had been searching for a job for far too long to let this opportunity slip away. After the interview, Adrian's secretary, Flora, took Cindy around the office, showing her everything she would need—and the boundaries she was never meant to cross.
"Mr. Cross prefers his coffee black. No sugar. No cream," Flora began. "You are expected to be here by 8:30 a.m. sharp. All meetings must be scheduled through me first. Mr. Cross doesn't like dull colors—vibrant colors only, but nothing half-naked. Dress cooperatively." Flora continued, lowering her voice slightly. "Don't interrupt him while he's talking. Allow him to finish before offering ideas. Always smell nice—floral scents for women, masculine scents for men. And most importantly, Cindy, do not get on his nerves." Cindy listened carefully, nodding through the long list of dos and don'ts. She was willing to do anything as long as she got the job. Still, the rules frightened her a little. But she reminded herself she was capable. She received her appointment letter and was asked to resume the next day. That night at home, Cindy couldn't stop thinking. What if the boss fires me before the job even begins? Still, deep down, she knew she could handle someone that tough. The next morning, Cindy arrived at the office by 8:20 a.m. She lived close by and didn't want to risk being late. She prepared Adrian's coffee and sat at her desk with her journal, waiting. At exactly 9:00 a.m., Adrian arrived. Cindy stood and presented his coffee. For the first time, Adrian truly looked at her. Something about her stirred a soft spot he didn't recognize. He gulped the coffee and went straight upstairs to his office.
"What is your name?" Adrian asked.
"Cindy, sir," she replied confidently.
"We'll be working very closely," Adrian said. "I trust Flora has told you everything you need to know?"
"Yes, sir."
"Read out my itinerary for today."
"You have a meeting with the concrete company and another meeting at the Golden Restaurant with a new client," Cindy said clearly. Adrian nodded. Cindy closed her journal and excused herself. Her office was directly opposite his, and she moved in and out throughout the day, reminding him of meetings and schedules. When it was time for the meeting at the Golden Restaurant, Cindy carried the necessary files. The client was already waiting when they arrived. Adrian led the discussion while Cindy remained quiet, carefully jotting down important decisions. As the meeting went on, Adrian found himself watching her—how focused she was, how attentive. Still, he didn't conclude anything. It was her first day, and everyone tried to impress on their first day. After the meeting, they returned to the office. Because Cindy worked closely with Adrian, she didn't close until he did. Closing time came and passed, but Adrian remained at his desk, flipping through files. Cindy didn't dare remind him about going home. She didn't know yet that Adrian was a workaholic—someone who never got tired and had no one waiting for him at home. By 7:30 p.m., Cindy tried booking a ride but couldn't get one. Adrian noticed her restlessness and offered to drop her off. It was late and unsafe. Cindy accepted. Adrian dropped her at her house and then drove back to his own—alone.
"Adrian didn't realize yet that hiring her would cost him control."