The Empire State Building stood tall, a beacon of corporate America, housing the headquarters of Thompson & Co., a leading marketing firm. On the 23rd floor, the office of CEO Ethan Thompson was a hub of activity, with his secretary, Emily Wilson, efficiently managing his schedule.
Emily, a 25-year-old graduate of NYU, had been working as Ethan's secretary for six months. Their working relationship was strained, to say the least. Ethan, a 30 years old business mogul, seemed to take pleasure in making Emily's life miserable.
Emily, I need the Johnson report on my desk within the hour, Ethan barked, not looking up from his computer.
Yes, Mr. Thompson,Emily replied, her voice neutral, as she quickly scrambled to gather the documents.
Ethan's piercing blue eyes finally met Emily's, and he raised an eyebrow. And, Emily, try not to mess it up this time.
Emily felt a flush rise to her cheeks as she bit back a retort. She had learned to keep her cool around Ethan, but it was getting increasingly difficult.
As she worked, Emily couldn't help but wonder why Ethan seemed to have it out for her. She was a competent secretary, and her colleagues respected her. But Ethan treated her like an incompetent nuisance.
The office gossip mill had it that Ethan was a demanding boss, but Emily felt like she was bearing the brunt of his wrath. Her coworkers would often shoot her sympathetic glances, but Emily kept her head down, focusing on her work.
Ethan Thompson was a self-made millionaire, known for his ruthless business tactics and chiseled good looks. His personal life was a mystery, but rumors swirled about his playboy past.
As the day went on, Emily's tasks piled up, and Ethan continued to ride her, his tone cold and dismissive. She began to feel like she was walking on eggshells, never knowing when he'd lash out next.
At 5 PM, Emily packed up her things, ready to escape the tension-filled office. As she left, Ethan called out, Emily, don't forget the meeting tomorrow at 9 AM sharp. Be prepared to take notes.
Emily nodded, forcing a smile. Of course, Mr. Thompson.
As she walked out of the office, Emily couldn't help but feel a sense of relief. She had no idea how much longer she could withstand Ethan's constant barrage.
The next morning, Emily arrived early, determined to be prepared for the meeting. As she set up the conference room, Ethan walked in, his eyes scanning the room.
Good morning, Emily,he said curtly, taking his seat at the head of the table.
Good morning, Mr. Thompson, Emily replied, her voice even.
As the meeting began, Emily took notes, her focus solely on the discussion. Ethan's tone softened slightly as he addressed the team, but Emily remained on high alert, anticipating his next jab.
The meeting concluded, and Emily breathed a sigh of relief as the attendees filed out. Ethan remained seated, his gaze fixed on her.
Emily, can I have a word?he asked, his tone low and even.
Emily's heart skipped a beat as she nodded. Of course, Mr. Thompson.
As the room emptied, Ethan leaned back in his chair, his eyes narrowing. "I've been noticing your work, Emily. You're competent, but... "
Emily's heart sank, anticipating the worst.
But what, Mr. Thompson she asked, her voice steady.
Ethan's gaze lingered on hers, and for a fleeting moment, Emily saw something like... curiosity? But it was quickly replaced by his usual stern expression.
"Just be prepared to take on more responsibilities, Emily. I expect you to keep up."
With that, Ethan dismissed her, leaving Emily feeling unsettled and wondering what lay ahead.
As she returned to her desk, Emily couldn't shake off the feeling that Ethan Thompson was a ticking time bomb, ready to explode at any moment.