Chapter 4 Impossible

Rosè took a deep breath, adjusting her skirt as she entered the office of her new boss.

It was her first day as the secretary of Elliot Jon Mallary-the CEO of the famous and luxurious Mallary Group. But she was a fake. She was in disguise, as per her deal with Juliette. She couldn't believe how Juliette managed to get her in without a hitch. Juliette paid off everyone who could have stood in the way of the plan. She had the former secretary removed and even turned the HR manager into an accomplice.

Even before starting her mission, Rosè had already encountered him twice. First at a café, where she even picked a fight with him, and second just yesterday-on the road-when she was almost hit by his car.

Why did they have to meet again? She recognized him immediately as Elliot because his face was everywhere-on Forbes, Time magazine, and all over social media. She, on the other hand, was probably a stranger to him.

She finally entered Jon Mallary's sleek office. It was filled with modern decor and had floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the city.

She forgot to breathe when she realized she was now standing in front of Elliot. He looked up immediately, sensing her presence.

"Good morning, Mr. Mallary," she greeted.

She felt nervous under his gaze. Elliot's deep-set eyes scanned her face intently, and she felt the heat rise in her cheeks.

"Ah, you must be my new secretary," he said coldly, though the corner of his lips twitched slightly. His expression suggested he recognized her.

"Yes, I'm Rosè Mendoza," she introduced herself with the fake name, trying to steady her tone. She just hoped she looked professional in his eyes.

He leaned back in his chair, raising a brow. "Nice to see you again... after our, what should I call it, eventful encounters?" he said with a cold tone.

She didn't reply. She felt like melting in front of him. She was brave, even a leader herself, but in front of him, she felt like a puppy. His commanding presence was undeniable.

"How come I met my new secretary not once, but twice before she even set foot in my office? Is this what they call fate?" he said, giving her a sarcastic smile.

She swallowed hard, a chill running down her neck. "N-No, Sir. It's just a coincidence," she replied.

"I didn't expect you to actually show up after that... incident at the pastry shop," he said, picking up a paper from his desk.

"Let's just say I'm a bit stubborn. I wasn't about to give up the last piece of cake-especially if it's my favorite," she said, holding back a laugh.

"Stubborn or just reckless? You almost got hit by my car yesterday, you know," he said, grinning.

"That was just an accident. I can assure you I'm a lot more careful in the office," she said in her defense.

"Enough about the past. We'll focus on your responsibilities moving forward," he said, setting the paper down and opening his laptop.

Rosè straightened up. "Right! Of course. I'm ready to help with anything you need."

He stared at her intently. "Very well, then. I expect full dedication in this role," he said, turning his attention to the laptop.

"You'll get it, Mr. Mallary," she said with confidence.

He leaned back again, studying her reaction. "Let's see if you can handle the pressure," he said sternly, clearly challenging her.

"I thrive under pressure. Just don't expect me to let you take the last cake again," she said with determination and a smile.

"That's a bold stance, Rosè," he replied, a flicker of amusement in his eyes.

"Well, someone has to keep you on your toes," she said. A mix of intrigue and nerves stirred in her chest.

"I'll remember that," he said, the smile tugging at his lips though he didn't let it fully show.

Her heart raced. She couldn't deny the attraction she was starting to feel for him. "Okay, then. What's first on the agenda?"

"We'll start with a meeting," he said, with a faint hint of curiosity in his tone as he returned to his work.

Rosè sat down at her new working desk. Her paperwork was already laid out. She let out a breath. She might have forgotten to breathe earlier. Elliot was a bit intimidating. Cold. And he didn't seem interested in her at all. How on earth was she supposed to win him over? She grabbed a few strands of her hair and began twirling them around her finger.

Soon, some of her co-workers passed by. She greeted them, thinking they'd be friendly, but they started acting like bullies. The employees here were as nasty as their boss. She couldn't tolerate it.

She clenched her jaw.

Moments later, the door to her boss's office burst open violently. Out came Elliot, face blazing with anger.

"Rosè!" he called her name loudly.

She immediately stood up. "Yes, Sir! Is everything alright?" she said, rushing toward him.

"No, everything is not okay! I need you to cancel my appointment with Kinnison. Now!" he said in a rush, already dialing his phone.

She felt a wave of nerves. "Yes, Sir! But is there a specific reason? I could just reschedule if you prefer-"

"I don't care about rescheduling! Just cancel it! I don't want to deal with him today," he snapped. Frustration was all over his face.

She took a deep breath. "Alright. I'll take care of it right away."

"I can't believe this. That woman, she's really ruining our friendship," he muttered to himself, turning his back on her.

"Is there anything else you need, Sir?" she asked tentatively.

He turned to her, eyes sharp and almost repulsive in their intensity. "No. Just do what I said."

"Absolutely. I'll handle it," she responded calmly.

He clicked his tongue, turned around, and walked away. His footsteps echoed on the floor before he finally disappeared from view. Shoulders drooping, she returned to her desk, sat down, and placed her hands on the table.

That arrogant Elliot... he might be impossible to love.