Chapter Two:New Beginnings and First Impression

Alfred strode into his sleek, modern office building, his confident footsteps echoing through the lobby.

The hub of his thriving furniture and interior decor empire, the space buzzed with activity as his staff scurried about, preparing for another busy day.

"Good morning, Mr. Alfred, sir!"

his receptionist chimed, her bright smile a testament to his warm leadership.

"Morning, Maria,"

he replied with a nod, his eyes scanning the room as he made his way to the elevator.

"Hi, Alfred! Great job on the new collection!" a designer called out, her voice carrying across the open space.

Alfred smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners, but didn't slow his pace. He was a man on a mission, his focus fixed on the day's agenda.

As he approached the elevator, a group of female employees huddled near the water cooler, their whispers and giggles drawing his attention.

"God, have you seen him today? He looks so handsome!" one cooed.

"I know, right? Those piercing blue eyes... sigh!" another sighed.

"Aww, he's so cute!" a third chimed in.

But when Alfred's gaze met theirs, they quickly dispersed, their faces flushing with embarrassment.

"No girl can dump a guy as cute as him," one whispered, not realizing Alfred was still within earshot.

The comment struck a nerve, but Alfred's expression remained stoic, his eyes never leaving the elevator doors as they slid open with a soft whoosh. He stepped inside, the doors closing behind him like a shield, protecting him from the whispers and admiring glances.

As the elevator doors slid open, Alfred strode out, his long strides devouring the distance to his office.

His assistant, Zoe, a petite woman with a kind face and medicated eyeglasses perched on the end of her nose, stood poised with a steaming cup of coffee.

Alfred accepted it with a nod, took a sip, and promptly poured the contents back into the cup, his face scrunched in distaste.

"This is lukewarm, not hot!" he exclaimed, his voice a low growl, as he hurled the cup toward the trash can. It landed with a clatter, the remnants of the coffee splashing out like a tiny brown waterfall.

Zoe, apologizing profusely, rushed to clean up the mess as Alfred disappeared into his office, the door closing behind him with a soft thud.

The room was a testament to his impeccable taste, with sleek, modern furniture and stunning decor that exuded elegance.

A beautifully crafted wooden desk sat at the center, adorned with a few carefully chosen art pieces and a sleek, silver lamp. The walls were painted a soothing gray, and the floor was covered with a plush, cream-colored carpet that felt like silk beneath his feet.

Alfred settled into his high-backed, leather chair, its cushions molded to his form after years of use. He swiveled it around to face the window, the morning sunlight casting a warm glow on his face as he began his call.

His voice was crisp and authoritative, discussing the finer points of a potential business deal with a client on the other end of the line.

"Yes, I understand your concerns, but I assure you, our company can deliver top-notch quality and meet your deadlines... No, I won't compromise on the materials, but I can offer a discount on the overall package... Let me see what I can do, and I'll get back to you by the end of the day."

As he spoke, he leaned back in his chair, his eyes scanning the horizon outside, his mind focused on the conversation and the potential deal that could make or break his company's quarter.

Outside the imposing structure of TBML Enterprises (Theophilus Bryan Martin Locke), a large billboard proudly displayed the company's name in bold, silver letters. The building's sleek, modern design and manicured gardens exuded an air of professionalism and success.

On this momentous day, Bryan and Alexia, both dressed in sharp business attire, made their entrance.

Bryan, a fine man, stood at around 5'8" with a lean, athletic build, wore a tailored black suit, crisp white shirt, and a tie with subtle stripes. Alexia, elegant in a stylish navy blue pantsuit, white blouse, and a statement piece of jewelry, walked beside him. Churchill, Alexia's assistant, a bit chubby and short, in his mid-thirties, trailed behind, carrying Alexia's bag and a sheaf of documents.

As they approached the boardroom, Churchill rushed to open the door, his eyes shining with eagerness.

When they neared their seats, he attempted to pull out the chair for Alexia, but Bryan gave him a subtle yet firm glance, and Churchill quickly retreated, allowing Bryan to take charge and pull out the chair for Alexia himself.

Once seated, TBML's CEO, Mr. Theophilus Bryan (TB), and Martin Locke (ML), introduced the new recruits to the board members.

"Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome Alexia and Bryan, our newest team members, who have joined us as Business Development Managers.

Their impressive business acumen and expertise will undoubtedly drive our company's growth and success.

Furthermore, we are pleased to announce that Alexia and Bryan will be our successors, leading TBML Enterprises into a bright and prosperous future."

The board members nodded in approval, their faces reflecting a mix of curiosity and expectation. Alexia and Bryan exchanged a brief, confident glance, their poise and assurance radiating like a beacon, as they prepared to make their mark on the company.

After the board meeting, Clara, the personal assistant of Mr. Theophilus Bryan, escorted Alexia and Bryan to their respective offices. She led Bryan first, walking briskly down the hallway, her high heels clicking on the polished floor. Bryan followed, his long strides easily keeping pace with hers. Clara, a bit chubby and short, with a curvy figure, moved with a confident stride, her dark hair bobbing with each step.

Next, Clara turned to Alexia, a warm smile on her face.

"Right this way, Alexia. Your office is just down the hall."

Churchill, still carrying Alexia's bag and documents, trailed behind, his eyes fixed on Clara's efficient movements.

As they walked, Clara and Churchill locked eyes, and for a brief moment, they just stared at each other. Clara's gaze lingered, and she couldn't help but admire Churchill's endearing face and charming smile. Churchill, feeling embarrassed, blushed hard, his cheeks flushing a deep red.

Alexia, oblivious to the exchange, chatted with Clara about the office layout and the company's policies. Churchill, still flustered, hurried to catch up, his eyes fixed on the floor, his face still burning with embarrassment.