6 Flora’s incredible design
Flora glanced at the contract on the table, her fingers tracing the lines as she contemplated her response. She had anticipated a discussion, but this conversation felt like a subtle interrogation.
Axel’s stern expression was unnerving. “This stipulation was clear when the acquisition happened, Ms. Flora. I’d like to know why this is an issue for you now.”
Flora hesitated, carefully choosing her words. “I understand the company’s expectations, Mr. Presley. However, my arrangement with Eisen was quite different. It allowed me flexibility in my work.”
Axel leaned back in his chair, eyeing Flora with a scrutinizing gaze. “Flexibility isn’t a luxury we can afford right now, especially after the acquisition. We need our top talents to be more present and engaged.”
Flora nodded, a touch of defiance in her tone. “I’ve always been engaged. My designs speak for
themselves.”
Axel’s expression softened slightly, sensing her determination. “Your talent is undisputed, Ms. Flora ad which is why I wanted you here. But talent needs to align with commitment.”
“I’m committed to my craft. But I have personal reasons why I can’t be physically present in the office all the time,” Flora explained, hoping to convey her predicament without divulging too much.
Axel arched an eyebrow. “And those reasons being?”
She hesitated, her mind racing to find a plausible explanation. “Family obligations. I assure you, my commitment to the company remains unwavering despite the physical presence.”
Axel leaned forward, His tone firm. “This isn’t open to negotiation, Ms. Flora. Your contract stipulates
this requirement.”
Remaining composed, she refused to falter under his intense gaze. Axel’s persistent inquiries rattled her, each question a probing needle trying to pierce through her carefully constructed defenses.
She adjusted in her seat, maintaining her composure despite the flurry of thoughts racing through her mind. “I prefer working from home. The office environment doesn’t always suit my creative
process.
His gaze was intense, scrutinizing her response. “Flexibility is essential, but your presence is imperative here, Flora, We need a more hands–on approach from our key talents.‘
Flora tried to mask her discomfort, her tone steady. “I’ll do my best to accommodate that requirement.”
He leaned forward, the atmosphere growing tense. “Your file is unusually sparse on personal details, Flora. Where can we reach you outside of emails? An address, a contact number?”
The question hit a nerve. Flora’s thoughts raced. Revealing too much felt perilous, but evading
It’s credible design
seemed suspicious.
“I’m not one to share personal information easily, Mr. Axel. It’s never been necessary in my line of work,” Flora replied, her words careful but firm.
Axel’s demeanor didn’t falter. “For security reasons, it’s crucial that we have your details on file.”
I
Flora’s facade of calm wavered slightly. “I understand your concerns, but I assure you, I’m committed to my work here.”
Axel nodded, dismissing her with a gesture, yet the tension in the room lingered, leaving Flora uneasy about the exchange.
Flora observed Davy’s demeanor, noticing his vigilant stance as she exited the room. His cautiousness didn’t escape her notice; it hinted at something brewing beneath the surface.
Davy tried to mask his surprise upon seeing Flora. He harbored questions about her unexpected connection with Axel, questions that he wasn’t at liberty to ask.
“Right this way, Ms. Flora,” Davy said, attempting to sound composed, though curiosity gleamed in his eyes. He had orders to update her personal details, and he intended to carry them out
meticulously.
Flora nodded, following Davy down the gleaming corridors of the Oli Group’s headquarters. She maintained her cool exterior, yet her mind raced with apprehension.
The silence between them was palpable, filled with unspoken queries. Flora sensed Davy’s inquisitiveness, but she was skilled at evading probing questions.
Davy cleared his throat, attempting to break the tension. “Your details need updating, standard procedure. Is there a different contact number or address you can provide us?”
Flora hesitated, weighing her words carefully. “I’ve been a bit nomadic, but I’ll make sure HR gets
them.”
Davy nodded, though a subtle flicker of doubt flashed across his face. He escorted her to the HR department, where the procedure for updating her information was laid out.
As Flora went through the motions, the weight of the situation felt heavier. It wasn’t just updating information; it was skirting a dangerous edge, balancing secrecy and necessity.
She had been sketching designs in her office when Davy appeared. His sudden arrival startled her, but she maintained her composed facade.
“Ms. Flora, the CEO has requested your presence for lunch. He mentioned wanting to discuss a few things,” Davy informed her, his tone bearing a note of formality.
Flora masked her surprise with a serene smile. The CEO’s direct invitation was unexpected. She wasn’t sure what to make of it but agreed nonetheless. “Of course, lead the way, Davy.”
As they walked toward the cafeteria, Flora felt a creeping sense of unease. The Oli Group’s interest in her was getting more personal than she had anticipated.
The cafeteria buzzed with corporate chatter and the clinking of cutlery. Flora noticed a few lingering glances directed their way as she and Davy made their way to a secluded table.
Axel was already seated, his expression inscrutable. He greeted Flora with a polite smile, gesturing for her to take a seat.
“Ms. Flora, I hope you’re settling in well,” Axel began, his tone measured. “I’ve been curious about your thoughts on the recent changes,
Flora remained composed, masking her inner turmoil. “The transition has been smooth, Mr. Axel. The office visits aren’t a problem.”
Axel nodded, seemingly pleased with her response. “Good to hear. We value your contribution to the company. However, there are some aspects I’d like to discuss regarding your role. ”
Mr. Axel.
Flora maintained her professional demeanor, though internally, a storm raged. She had expected this, yet the direct confrontation rattled her. “I appreciate the company’s growth ambitions, I’m adaptable to changes in my role.”
Axel smiled, though it didn’t reach his eyes. “Adaptability is indeed a valuable trait, Ms. Flora. Thank you for your time today. Let’s reconvene soon.
As the lunch concluded, Flora couldn’t shake off the lingering sense of scrutiny. Her intuition whispered that there was more to Axel’s interest than met the eye.‘
Probably he doesn’t trust me‘ She thought. Even though she didn’t really care.
As she strolled alongside Davy, Flora glanced around, taking in the pristine, modern architecture of the building. The bustling atmosphere seemed to echo with hushed whispers, which she imagined were likely about her unanticipated presence beside Davy.
The journey to the cafeteria became an impromptu tour as Davy enthusiastically narrated the different departments they passed. Yet, Flora’s mind lingered on Axel’s probing questions earlier. Was there more to his curiosity than met the eye?
The stares and whispers intensified when they took a seat. Flora felt like an exhibit in a museum, each murmur adding layers to the mounting tension she was trying hard to conceal.
After spending the day with the company, it was time to leave. She did not hesitate to pack up and leave. Flora swiftly gathered her belongings, her designs neatly packed in a sleek portfolio. As she handed over her drafts to the design department, their awe–filled expressions didn’t escape her
notice.
“Wow, these are incredible, Ms. Flora!” one of the designers exclaimed, their admiration evident.
“Thank you,” Flora replied with a modest smile, feeling a hint of satisfaction at their response.
With a nod of acknowledgment, she made her way out, acknowledging their impressed glances without dwelling on them.
Outside, she hailed a cab, her mind drifting with a whirlwind of thoughts about the day’s peculiar
