at Le
The disa Berardin exceeded all of Pervis’s expectations. The conversation flowed naturally as the three women shared stories about their respective careers and asked him thoughtful questions about his past experiences and future aspirations
“This feels surreal,” Pervis admitted as they finished their main courses. “Yesterday I was nobody, and tonight I’m dining with three of the most successful women I’ve ever met.”
were never nobody,” Ania corrected gently. “You just needed the right support system to help you realize your potential”
“Speaking of which Christina interjected, reaching into her designer handbag, “we each prepared a little welcome gift for you”
Aria smiled and slid an elegant box across the table. “Open mine first.”
Inside the velvet–lined case was a Patek Philippe watch, its intricate face gleaming under the restaurant’s soft lighting Pervis’s eyes widened as he recognized the craftsmanship
“Ana, this must be worth.”
“About two million,” she said casually. “But who’s counting?”
Christina laughed at his shocked expression. “My turn.” She presented him with a garment bag. “I had my personal tailor create this for you. Italian wool, hand–stitched, fitted to your exact measurements.”
“How did you know my measurements?” Pervis asked, bewildered.
“Thave my methods, Christina replied with a mysterious smile.
Grace practically bounced in her seat as she handed him a set of car keys. “And this is from me! A limited edition Aston Martin, custom painted in midnight blue. It’s parked outside.”
Pervis stared at the keys, then at the three women, completely overwhelmed. “I can’t accept all of this. It’s
too much”
“Nonsense,” Aria said firmly. “You’re family now. This is how family takes care of each other.”
As the evening wound down, Aria’s expression grew more serious. “There’s one more thing, Pervis. I’ve arranged a position for you at Whitewater Corporation.”
“Whitewater?”
“One of our subsidiary companies,” Christina explained. “It’s the perfect place for you to learn the fundamentals of business management.”
“Consider it your training ground,” Grace added. “Once you’re comfortable there, you can move on to bigger responsibilities within the Coleman empire.”
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“What kind of position? Pervis asked.
“Management trainee, Aria replied. “You’ll start at the bottom and work your way up, learning every
t of the business. It’s the same path all Coleman family members take”
The next morning, Pervis stood before his bathroom mirror, adjusting the perfectly tailored suit Christina had given him. The transformation was remarkable–he looked every inch the successful businessman he was apparently destined to become
The Whitewater Corporation building was an impressive glass tower in the heart of the financial district. As Pervis entered the lobby, he noticed two other people who appeared to be new employees, both carrying the same orientation folder he held
The first was a woman with heavy makeup and an expensive–looking outfit. Her dark hair was styled in an elaborate updo, and her entire appearance suggested someone who took great care with her presentation Despite her polished exterior, there was something guarded about her demeanor.
The second was younger, probably fresh out of college, with bright eyes and an eager smile. She seemed to radiate enthusiasm and optimism.
“Are you here for orientation too?” the younger woman asked cheerfully as they waited for the elevator.
“Yes,” Pervis replied. “I’m Pervis Tyler.”
“Linda Morrison!” she said brightly, extending her hand. “I’m so excited to start working here. I’ve heard amazing things about the company culture.”
The older woman glanced at them briefly but didn’t offer an introduction. When Pervis looked at her. expectantly, she simply nodded curtly.
“I’m Alicia Brennan,” she said finally, her voice cool and professional.
“Nice to meet you both,” Pervis said as the elevator doors opened.
They stepped inside together, and Pervis pressed the button for the twentieth floor where orientation was scheduled to take place.
*So what department are you hoping to work in?” Linda asked enthusiastically.
“Management training program,” Pervis replied.
“Oh wow, that’s competitive!” Linda exclaimed. “I applied for marketing. I have so many ideas for improving their social media presence
Alicia remained silent, checking her phone with apparent disinterest in the conversation.
Just as the elevator doors were about to close, a sharp voice called out from the lobby.
“Hold that elevator!”
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A thin woman with angular features and an expensive pantsuit hurried toward them, followed by a rotund middle–aged man whose expensive clothes couldn’t quite disguise his self–important demeanor
The woman stepped into the elevator first, immediately scanning the three newcomers with obvious
disdain
“Out,” she said sharply, pointing toward the lobby.
Pervis frowned, confused by the sudden hostility. “I’m sorry?”
“I said get out of this elevator immediately,” the woman repeated, her voice growing more cutting.
“Why?” Pervis asked him. There’s plenty of room for everyone
The woman’s eyes flashed with irritation as she looked the three of them up and down dismissively. “Do people of your status really think you’re worthy of sharing the same elevator as Mr. Roden?” she sneered, gesturing toward the middle–aged man beside her
The man in question puffed out his chest importantly, clearly enjoying the deference being shown to him. “That’s right,” he said pompously 7 don’t ride with entry–level nobodies. Find another way up “
Alicia’s jaw tightened almost imperceptibly, though she said nothing Linda looked confused and hurt by the sudden hostility.
Chapte
Sara Lili is a daring romance writer who turns icy landscapes into scenes of fiery passion. She loves crafting hot love stories while embracing the chill of Iceland’s breathtaking cold.
