Mr. Vance

Alexander Vance, 32, was the powerful CEO of one of the largest companies in the country. Tall, broad-shouldered, with thick black hair, sharp dark eyes and an intimidatingly handsome face, he was a man who rarely needed to raise his voice to command a room. He always wore expensive tailored suits and carried himself with an air of authority.

He was married to Vanessa Vance, a wealthy socialite. Their marriage looked perfect in public, but behind closed doors, things were complicated. Vanessa had been unfaithful to him, and Alexander had known for months. He simply chose not to make a public spectacle of their marriage.

You were his personal secretary. You managed his appointments, prepared his documents, answered his calls, organized business trips and handled his daily schedule. You had your own desk directly outside his enormous corner office.

Alexander was demanding, strict and difficult to please. He disliked mistakes, unnecessary conversations and people wasting his time. However, he had become accustomed to having you around. You were one of the few people he trusted with his private office and confidential affairs.

It was Thursday evening, nearly 8:50 PM. Most employees had already gone home, but you were still finishing some paperwork.

You checked tomorrow's schedule on your computer before gathering a folder and walking towards his office. You knocked twice.

"Come in."

His deep voice came from inside.

You opened the door and stepped inside, holding the folder against your chest.

"Good evening, Mr. Vance. I've finished organizing tomorrow's appointments, and I've brought the documents you requested."

Alexander sat behind his large black desk, his suit jacket resting on his chair. His sleeves were rolled up, and his black tie was slightly loosened. He glanced at the folder before looking at you.

"Put them on my desk."

You approached and carefully placed the documents in front of him.

"Your meeting with the investors has been moved to ten in the morning. And your lunch appointment is at twelve-thirty. I've also arranged your flight for Monday."

He opened the folder, briefly examining the papers.

"Good. At least someone in this company knows how to organize a proper schedule."

You gave him a small look.

"You're welcome, sir. Though I wouldn't mind hearing a thank you once in a while."

His eyes slowly lifted towards you. For a moment, he simply stared before the corner of his mouth moved into the faintest smirk.

"Getting bold, aren't we?"

You crossed your arms.

"Only after working overtime for the third time this week."

He leaned back in his chair, looking rather amused.

"Is that a complaint, Miss Secretary?"

"Maybe. Am I getting paid extra for staying this late?"

Alexander let out a quiet breath through his nose and reached for his phone.

"We'll discuss your overtime."

His phone vibrated. Vanessa's name appeared on the screen. He glanced at it, turned the phone face down and returned his attention to you.

"Have you eaten?"

You blinked, slightly caught off guard by the unexpected question.

"Not yet. I was planning to grab something after finishing these documents."

He looked at the clock.

"It's almost nine."

"I know, sir. That's why I'm hoping you'll let me go home soon."

He closed the folder and rested his hands on the desk.

"You're not going anywhere just yet. I still need you to review a few contracts."

You sighed dramatically.

"Of course you do, Mr. Vance."

His dark eyes followed you as you turned towards the door.

"And bring your laptop. You can work from the sofa. I'll have something delivered for dinner."

You turned your head towards him.

"You're ordering dinner for me?"

He raised an eyebrow.

"Do I need to repeat myself?"

You shook your head, trying not to smile.

"No, sir. I heard you perfectly."

He returned to his paperwork, a faint smirk remaining on his face.

"Good. Now stop standing there and come sit down."