Chapter 5- Alex's PA

Emily sat at her desk, sipping her coffee and reviewing the latest design concepts for an upcoming project. Her assistant, Rachel, buzzed her to announce that her PA, Mark, was on his way to see her. Mark knocked on the door and entered, carrying a folder and wearing a friendly smile. "Good morning, Mrs Emily. I hope you're doing well." Emily smiled back, gesturing for Mark to take a seat. "Good morning, Sir Mark. What's the update on the Smith account?" Mark opened the folder and pulled out a few papers. "Well, Mr. Smith just moved into his new house and he's eager to start furnishing it. He's interested in purchasing some high-end interior pieces, and he's asked us to provide some recommendations." Emily's eyes lit up with interest as she went through the papers. "That's great news! What's his style like? Has he given us any idea of what he's looking for?" Mark then handed her a few photographs of Mr. Smith's new house. "He's got a very modern aesthetic, lots of clean lines, and minimal decor. He's mentioned that he likes sleek, sophisticated pieces that will complement his new space." She studied the photographs, taking mental notes on them. "Okay, got it. And what's the budget looking like for this project?" Mark rechecked his notes as he spoke. "Mr. Smith has indicated that he's willing to spend up to $100,000 on interior pieces. He's looking for high-quality, unique items that will make a statement in his new home." This made her impressed. "That's a significant budget. I think we can definitely find some incredible pieces that will fit his style and budget." Mark smiled. "I knew you'd be the perfect person to handle this account, Emily. You have such a great eye for design." Emily smiled back, feeling a sense of pride. " Well, thanks, Mark. I'll get started on some recommendations right away." She had always loved working with clients who had a clear vision and a willingness to invest in high-quality design. She couldn't wait to start brainstorming ideas for Mr. Smith's new home. Just as she was about to start brainstorming ideas for Mr. Smith's interior design project, Rachel knocked on her door. "Mrs Emily, don't forget you were supposed to drop by Alex's office to give him lunch," Rachel reminded her. Emily's eyes widened in surprise. "Shit, I completely forgot! What time is it?" she asked, quickly checking her watch. "It's already 11:30," Rachel replied. "You should probably get going if you want to make it on time." Emily nodded, feeling a bit flustered. "You're right. Can you handle any client calls that come in while I'm out?" she asked Rachel. Rachel nodded. "Of course, don't worry about it. I've got everything under control." Emily smiled, feeling grateful for such a reliable assistant. "Thanks, Rachel. I owe you one." She grabbed her purse and headed out the door, locking it behind her. She walked to the parking garage, got into her car, and started the engine. As she drove to Alex's office, Emily couldn't help but think about their conversation the night before. She was still feeling a bit hurt that he hadn't been interested in talking to her, but she had to put up a brave face and make the most of their lunch together. As Emily walked into Alex's company, everyone looked up at her with respect. They bowed their heads or nodded as she passed by. The receptionist smiled when she noticed her presence. "Good morning, Mrs. Alexander." "Good morning," Emily replied. "I'm here to see my husband." The receptionist checked her computer. "Let me just check if Mr. Alexander is available." After a while, the receptionist looked up. "I'm afraid Mr. Alexander is in a meeting right now. But it should be finishing up soon." Emily nodded. "Alright then, I can wait." This made the receptionist smile. "You can wait in the waiting room, ma'am. Can I get you a drink while you wait?" Emily shook her head. "Oh, no, thank you but I'm fine." She walked into the waiting room and took a seat. The room was nicely decorated with comfortable chairs and a large TV. As she waited, Emily thought about her day. She had a lot of work to do, but she was happy to take a break to see Alex. He was always and couldn't eat her cooking so she hoped he was doing well and that they could have a nice lunch together. After a few minutes, the receptionist came into the waiting room. "Mrs. Alexander, Mr. Alexander will see you now." Emily stood up, smoothing out her corporate outfit, and followed the receptionist to Alex's office, wondering what he would be like today She walked into Alex's office without knocking, feeling confident and comfortable in her own territory. But as she entered, she was met with a sight that made her feel uncomfortable and uneasy. Emilia was standing beside Alex's desk, wearing a tight-fitting outfit that accentuated her curves. Emily had always known that Emilia was a curvy person, but there was something about the way she was dressed that made Emily feel like she was trying too hard. As Emily entered, Emilia threw her a disgusting look, her eyes narrowing in annoyance. "Well, well, well. Look what we have here," Emilia said, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "You didn't knock that was quite rude. What brings you here?" Emily flashed her a smug look. "And who are you to ask me what I'm doing here? This is your husband's office, not yours." "That doesn't give you the right to enter without knocking," Emilia said. Emily felt a surge of anger at Emilia's tone, but she tried to keep her emotions in check. "I'm his wife," she said, her voice firm but controlled. Emilia raised an eyebrow. "Then maybe you should ask your husband what I'm doing here, instead of questioning me." Alex, who had been quiet until now, spoke up. "Emilia, that's enough. Emily, I can explain. She's..." "She's your what?" she asked, her voice trembling with rage. "She's my PA," Alex replied, his tone matter-of-fact. Emily's eyes narrowed. "Your what?" she repeated, her voice rising. She thought she had heard wrong. Alex sighed. "She's my personal assistant. She applied for the job, and I hired her." This made Emily's blood boil. "You're saying she applied for a contract, and you hired her without my notice?" she asked, her voice incredulous. Alex nodded. "We were busy with the wedding, and you knew how I kept traveling up and down. I didn't think it was a big deal." Emilia, who had been watching the exchange with a smug expression, suddenly turned innocent and held Emily's hand. "Emily, I'm sorry if I didn't tell you about it. I just want to be wealthy like him, so I see him as my sensei." Emily's eyes flashed with anger, and she removed her hand from Emilia's grasp. She had always avoided Emilia and her mother, never trusting them. "Don't touch me," she spat. She dropped the packaged food on Alex's table. "You didn't have to bring lunch," Emilia said, her voice dripping with malice. "I made it and brought it for my husband," Emily said, her voice specific and firm, making it clear that she wasn't going to let Emilia get the better of her.