Chapter 5 Under Scrutiny

"So, let's get the documents sorted," Ethan began. "As usual, it's a regular 9-5 job, sometimes extending later, but it will cover your house expenses, insurance, and medicals. And Isa, as you know, please do your best and don't feel like you have to prove anything to anyone, okay?"

"Yes, but I'm kind of scared," Isa replied with a trembling voice.

"Why?" Ethan asked.

"Because there are going to be rumors, you know. I mean, first of all, you didn't let any other applicants try, and people are going to think that it's because we're having an affair," Isa stated.

Ethan chuckled. "I really don't care what people have to say. They can talk all they want. And as for you, young lady, you came in on time before anyone else. Think about it-the boss can request for you anytime, so at least you should be an hour early for your interview in case anything happens, shouldn't you?"

"Yes, I guess."

"See, don't worry your little head for nothing, hmm?"

"Sam!" Ethan yelled.

"Yes, sir?" Sam entered the office immediately.

"Let her sign the documents. She's my new secretary."

"Are you sure, sir?" Sam asked hesitantly.

"Did I stutter?" Ethan replied sharply.

"No, sir. It's just that you didn't even interview any other applicants. After looking through her CV, yes, she did work at WHO but only for a short period before she got fired. She also worked at a small company but got fired from there too. Plus, after reviewing more of the applicants, I've counted at least five who would be more suitable for the position, sir."

Isa bowed her head in embarrassment. It was true-there were much better applicants than her, but she still didn't understand why Ethan picked her. A part of her felt it was due to their affair.

"Mr. Sam, are you the CEO?" Ethan inquired.

"N-no, sir," Sam stammered.

"Then it really shouldn't bother you about my decisions. You're dangling between employment and unemployment, Sam. If you really need an explanation, I'll give you a simple one. If a lecturer comes into the class ready to award marks but a student is already there reading his or her book while the others come in late, who do you think the teacher will award the marks to?"

"But sir, the other applicants have arrived and..."

"What's the time?" Ethan interrupted.

"It's nine-thirty, sir."

"So?" Ethan said pointedly.

Sam hung his head in embarrassment.

"Give her the papers, and next time you ever think of talking to me like that or insulting one of my ideas, be ready to say goodbye to your job. Despite our close relationship, I won't condone rudeness or you questioning my decisions like you own everything. Who the fuck do you think you are?"

"I'm sorry, sir, I..."

"Save it. Give her the contract, get out of my office, and tell the other applicants I have a new secretary."

"Yes, sir."

Isa was so scared. What would people think?

"Sweetie, sign the contract, yeah?"

"Yes, sir," she said.

"Sir? I like that. Call me that next time when I'm making you scream my name," Ethan smirked.

Isa blushed deeply.

After she was done signing the contract, she and Ethan went for lunch.

"Do you like the cafeteria, Isa?" Ethan asked.

"Do I? It's bigger and fancier than my old home," Isa said with beaming eyes.

"You're cute," Ethan replied.

Isa just giggled. She could hear people gossiping about her, though. It made her feel off. These people didn't even know her, yet they were making accusations against her. Fine, she was sleeping with the boss, but that wasn't the reason she was picked.

After lunch, Ethan showed her around the office. They walked through the spacious, modern corridors, each area meticulously designed. He introduced her to various departments, explaining their functions and how they all interconnected to keep the company running smoothly. The marketing department buzzed with creative energy, the finance team worked with precision, and the IT crew was surrounded by state-of-the-art technology. Isa listened intently, trying to absorb as much information as possible.

"This is the break room," Ethan said, opening a door to reveal a cozy space with comfortable seating, a coffee machine, and a selection of snacks. "Feel free to use it whenever you need a break. It's important to take care of yourself."

"Thank you," Isa replied, feeling a bit overwhelmed but also excited about her new role.

Finally, they reached her new office, a sleek, well-lit space with a large window offering a stunning view of the city. "This will be your workspace," Ethan said. "I hope you find it comfortable and conducive to your work."

"It's amazing," Isa said, looking around in awe.

"Good. Now, if you need anything, my office is just down the hall. Don't hesitate to come by," Ethan said with a reassuring smile.

As Isa settled into her new desk, she couldn't shake off the nervousness entirely, but Ethan's confidence in her gave her a glimmer of hope. She was determined to prove herself, not just to others but to herself as well. This was a new beginning, and she was ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.