Prologue
Have you ever wondered how a decision would affect your life?
I’m not the kind of girl who spends her time thinking back on past choices. I wake up early in the morning, go to work, go back home, and sleep. I have no time for contemplation. This is all going to change. Alexander Knight will change everything.
As the chatter of my coworkers fills the air, I’m jolted back to reality from my daydreams. They’re discussing weekend plans and office gossip, but I’m lost in my own world of routines and responsibilities.
As soon as they hear me entering the office, my heels clacking against the marble floor, they hush down.
Their sudden hush as I enter the office is a familiar occurrence. It’s not that they’re intimidated or trying to avoid me—it’s just that they know I’m not one for idle chatter. My focus is on the tasks at hand, meeting deadlines, and exceeding expectations.
I nod in acknowledgment as I pass by, a small smile playing at the corners of my lips.
Only a few people are in the office this early. Half of them are probably here from the night before.
I start on my first task of the day as soon as I reach my desk. I know the consequences of being late to deliver.
Just as I set the files down on Mr. Knight’s desk, I hear the telltale sign of his arrival.
The distinct sound of Mr. Knight’s footsteps echoes through the hallway, signalling his arrival. He’s a man of routine, much like myself, and I know the importance of delivering his files promptly. With practiced efficiency, I straighten up and prepare for our everyday routine.
As he approaches, I can feel the weight of his presence filling the room. His gaze meets mine briefly before he sits in his chair. He hands me his bag silently, which I take without hesitation, putting it in its correct place. Just as he likes it.
“Mr Knight.” I greet. “Good morning, sir.”
He doesn’t spare me a glance, pulling the first of the files I prepared. I straighten my scrunched-up skirt before he can notice it.
I read through the paper in my hand quickly, relaying his schedule. “You have five meetings today, sir. The first one is in thirty minutes with Mr. Daniel Smith. You also have a charity event tonight. I’ve already prepared for a suit to be sent to your penthouse.”
He nods swiftly, a silent but clear dismissal.
I blink. He never deigns to reply to me, but something is wrong today. I can tell from his posture. His scowl is too deep. His frown is worse today.
“Are you alright, sir?” I ask hesitantly.
Mr. Knight’s expression remains stern as he looks up from the file, his gaze piercing through me. For a moment, there’s a flicker of something in his eyes—perhaps surprise or irritation at my question—but it’s quickly masked by a mask of indifference.
“I’m fine.” He responds curtly, his voice devoid of any warmth. “Just make sure everything is in order for the meetings, Janet.”
I purse my lips. I swallow hard, sensing the tension in the air. Something doesn’t feel right, but I know better than to push further. I hand him his coffee silently.
My name is Jennifer. I’ve been working as his secretary for ten years, and he’s yet to say my name correctly. I don’t take it to heart, though. I doubt he remembers the names of any of his employees.
He isn’t an old man. He’s barely two years older than I am. Two years and three days, to be exact. It’s hard to forget his birthday when I never have time to plan a birthday party for myself. My focus is on planning his.
With a quick nod, I retreat back to my office next to his.
