Chapter 3: The Summons

As I walked back to my cubicle, my mind kept drifting back to Alexandra's enigmatic smile and the way her eyes seemed to hold a secret. What did she want to discuss with me at 2 pm? Was it something related to the Smith account, or was there something more to it? I tried to shake off the feeling of unease, telling myself I was just being paranoid, but the sense of anticipation lingered. The hours ticked by at a slow pace, and I found myself checking the clock every few minutes, my anxiety growing with each passing moment. At 1:45 pm, I got up from my desk and began to make my way to Alexandra's office, my heart pounding in my chest. As I approached her door, I took a deep breath and steeled myself for whatever was about to happen. I knocked softly on the door, and Alexandra's voice called out, "Come in." I pushed open the door and stepped inside, finding myself in a spacious office with a stunning view of the city skyline. Alexandra was sitting behind her desk, her eyes fixed on me as I entered. "Ah, John, thanks for coming," she said, her voice smooth and confident. "Please, have a seat." I sat down in the chair opposite her desk, trying to read her expression. But Alexandra's face was a mask of professionalism, giving away nothing. "So, I wanted to discuss the Smith account with you further," she said, leaning back in her chair. "I think you're doing a great job, but I want to make sure you're aware of the stakes. This account is a high-profile one, and we need to make sure we're delivering top-notch results." I nodded, taking mental notes as she outlined the expectations and goals for the project. But as she spoke, I couldn't help but notice the way her eyes seemed to sparkle with amusement, as if she was hiding something. Finally, she finished speaking and leaned forward, her elbows on her desk. "There's something else I want to discuss with you, John," she said, her voice taking on a more serious tone. "Something that I think could be a great opportunity for you." I raised an eyebrow, intrigued despite myself. "What is it?" I asked, my curiosity getting the better of me. Alexandra leaned back in her chair, a small smile playing on her lips. "I've been thinking about your career development, John," she said. "And I think it's time for you to take on more responsibility. I'd like to offer you a promotion." My heart skipped a beat as I processed her words. A promotion? It sounded like a dream come true. But as I looked into Alexandra's eyes, I couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to it than met the eye. What did she want in return for this promotion? And what exactly did she have planned for me?