The elevator dinged, and Riven Adrian stepped out, trying not to look nervous. The hallway smelled faintly of polished wood and expensive furniture. He adjusted his bag straps and muttered to himself, "Okay, first day… don't mess this up."
Riven had heard stories about the CEO of Thaddeus Enterprises. Xavier Thaddeus. Elegant, brilliant, feared by everyone in the office. And now, Riven had to meet him.
He walked into the lobby, trying to look confident, but his sneakers squeaked on the marble floor. His heart was racing. Why did I pick this internship again?
Before he could settle, a voice behind him said, "Well, well, look who's here."
Three female employees were leaning against the counter, smirking. Riven froze.
"You're the new intern, right? Riven?" the tallest one asked.
"Yes… ma'am," Riven said, trying to look taller and less awkward.
The women exchanged mischievous looks. "Oh, you poor thing," the tallest said. "You look like you've never seen an office before."
Another giggled. "Don't worry, we'll help you. Starting with… coffee duty."
Riven blinked. "Coffee duty?"
"Yes! You'll be getting coffee for the CEO today. Don't spill it, or else…" She grinned. "We'll have fun watching you squirm."
Riven gulped. The folder in his hands suddenly felt heavier than a brick.
When he reached the CEO's office, his hands were shaking. He knocked and entered, carrying the tray of coffee.
And there he was. Xavier Thaddeus.
Tall, elegant, perfect. His hair was immaculate, his suit flawless, and his eyes… sharp enough to make Riven's knees weak.
"Ah. You must be the new intern," Xavier said, his voice smooth but commanding. "Riven Adrian."
"Yes… sir," Riven said, bowing slightly and almost tripping.
Xavier's lips curved in a faint, almost cruel smile. "Don't spill the coffee. I hate coffee stains."
Riven's hands shook, one cup wobbled, but he managed to steady it. He even caught a pen that almost fell off the desk.
Xavier raised an eyebrow. "Do you always fumble this much on your first day?"
Riven felt his face burn. "I… I usually don't…"
Xavier didn't say anything else. He just watched, and strangely, it made Riven more curious than scared.
Outside, the female employees were laughing and whispering.
"He didn't spill it!" one said.
"Yet," another added, "but he looks like he's about to faint any second."
Riven tried to hide in his cubicle. Why did I pick this internship?
The rest of the day wasn't easier. The female employees kept giving him ridiculous tasks:
Carrying coffee across the office without spilling
Rearranging files in some random "secret order"
Running errands like a personal assistant for their amusement
And yet, somehow, Riven survived. Quick thinking and a little luck kept him from complete disaster.
During lunch, Riven finally got a quiet moment. He opened his bag and pulled out a sandwich, letting out a soft sigh.
"Mind if I join you?"
Riven looked up. Xavier was standing there, holding his own lunch. "I thought you might like some company," he said, eyebrow slightly raised.
"Uh… sure," Riven muttered.
Xavier sat down. "You did well today, considering."
Riven blinked. "Thank you, sir."
"Don't be formal. Just… try not to embarrass yourself tomorrow."
Riven noticed something odd. Beneath the cold, arrogant exterior, there was… softness. Just a little.
Interesting, Riven thought.
When the workday ended, Riven walked out exhausted but strangely excited. The office had humiliated him, tested him, and made him laugh. Somehow, he couldn't wait for tomorrow.
As he walked home, a tingle ran down his spine. Someone or something was watching. Across the street, two glowing eyes reflected the last light of the setting sun.
Riven froze. This is just the beginning, he thought.