3. The New CEO

The next morning, the sun cast a warm glow over the city as Kathryn sat in the sleek black car, her father next to her.

As she settled into the plush leather seat of the car, she couldn't help but steal a glance at her reflection in the side mirror.

Her auburn hair was tied up in a bun, creating a subtle halo around her face. She had opted for a sleek, navy blue pantsuit and a blazer that hugged her curves just right. A crisp white shirt peeked from underneath the blazer.

Her hazel eyes, framed by a sweep of mascara and a subtle touch of eyeshadow, reflected a mixture of determination and anticipation. A delicate silver necklace adorned her neck.

As she adjusted the collar of her blazer, she caught a glimpse of the coral lipstick she had chosen, adding a pop of colour to an otherwise monochromatic palette.

Satisfied with her appearance, she turned her attention to her father sitting beside her. His weathered face and salt-and-pepper hair spoke of years of wisdom and experience.

A silent exchange of smiles passed between them, a silent affirmation of the bond that went beyond words.

The hum of the engine resonated with the anticipation coursing through Kathryn's veins. The skyline stretched before them, a testament to the thriving metropolis that housed TechSphere's corporate headquarters.

As the imposing glass facade of the building came into view, she couldn't help but feel a surge of nervous energy. The responsibility that awaited her felt both exhilarating and daunting.

Her father, sensing her unease, placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder.

"You're ready for this, Kathryn," he said, his gaze filled with unwavering confidence. "TechSphere is in your blood, and you will lead it to even greater heights."

She nodded, drawing strength from his belief in her. The car glided to a stop in front of the entrance, and as she stepped out, the realization of the moment hit her.

Today marked the beginning of a new era, one where she would reclaim the legacy that had always been hers.

The elevator carried them to the top floor, where the executive offices overlooked the cityscape. Her father's assistant, Mr. Johnson, greeted them with a respectful nod.

The atmosphere in the office held a noticeable tension, and Kathryn's heart quickened as she took her seat at the expansive mahogany table.

The board of directors, a formidable assembly of seasoned professionals, awaited her father's announcement. Their scrutiny eyes pierced into her soul, but she refused to let it sway her resolve.

Her father stood at the head of the table, his authoritative presence commanding attention. "Ladies and gentlemen, I've called this meeting to announce utmost importance."

The room fell into a hushed silence as all eyes turned to him. Her father's gaze locked onto hers, a silent exchange of understanding passing between them.

"After years of dedicated service as the Chairman of TechSphere, I present our new CEO," he declared, a murmur of surprise rippling through the room. "Fear not, for the company will be in capable hands. My daughter, Kathryn Rowland, will be taking over as the new CEO."

Whispers of surprise and speculation swept through the room. Kathryn felt the weight of their scrutiny intensifies, but she held her head high, determined to prove that she was more than just a name.

Her father continued, "Kathryn has the vision and expertise needed to lead TechSphere into the future. I trust her, and I believe that under her leadership, the company will thrive."

A round of applause followed his words, and Kathryn nodded in acknowledgement, gratitude, and determination mingling within her. The room buzzed with discussions of the unexpected change in leadership, and as the applause subsided, her father turned to her.

"Kathryn, the future of TechSphere is now in your hands. Lead with wisdom and strength, and remember, you have the support of everyone here."

She rose from her seat, acknowledging the responsibility that now rested on her shoulders. "Thank you, Dad. I won't let you down, and I won't let TechSphere down. And to everyone right here, I'm looking forward to working with you all."

As the meeting progressed, she found herself immersed in the intricate details of the company's operations, and the challenges and opportunities that awaited.

The day unfolded like a whirlwind of introductions, briefings, and strategic discussions. Her new role settled upon her, but with it came a sense of purpose.

"Kathryn," her dad called out and she turned to him. "This is Jessica, your new PA." He made a hand gesture towards the lady standing beside him, and he left.

"Good morning ma'am, I will do my best while working with you." Jessica curtly nodded.

"It's nice to meet you, Jessica. Let's go to my office to begin the work of the day." Then they both left.

Before they clocked out at work by 4 pm, word had already spread swiftly across the nation, the headlines heralding the return of the TechSphere chairman's daughter after six years abroad. Every media posted the news.

The news ignited a flurry of speculation, curiosity, and in some cases, scepticism. The city of Birmingham buzzed with the revelation of her unexpected ascent to the helm of the conglomerate.

Kathryn left the office, the new position still lingering on her shoulders. The city lights twinkled below, a reflection of the challenges that awaited.

As she stepped into the awaiting car, the driver glanced at her through the rearview mirror, and a familiar name flashed on the news ticker.

"Anderson Gilbert, the conglomerate heir had returned to the city after half a decade."

The sudden news sent a chill down Kathryn's spine, memories of that fateful day resurfacing. The suspense of what his return might entail became heavy in her heart.

As the car navigated through the city, she couldn't shake the feeling that destiny was weaving a complicated tapestry, entwining their paths once again.

Soon enough, the car pulled up to the familiar grandeur of her parents' mansion. She stepped out of the car, her mind still abuzz with the intricacies of leading TechSphere into the future.

As she approached the entrance, the mansion's imposing silhouette framed against the night sky, she caught a glimpse of a figure standing near the front gate.

A sense of familiarity tugged at the edges of her consciousness, and as she drew closer, the features of the person became clearer.

Anderson Gilbert.

His presence felt like a ghost from the past, a spectre that had returned to haunt the corridors of her life. His silhouette, tall and refined, stood in stark contrast to the surrounding darkness.

The fuzzy glow of the mansion's exterior lights illuminated his face, revealing features that time had treated with a certain kindness.

His deep-set eyes, once filled with hurt and confusion, now held a glint of surprise and hatred.

The sharp lines of his jaw accentuated a maturity that had replaced the 24-year-old boyish charm Kathryn had known six years ago. Thirty really looks good on him.

His skin, once marked by the remnants of teenage acne, now appeared delicate and clear.

As she stepped closer, her footsteps echoing in the stillness of the night, his unwavering gaze locked onto hers...