The New CEO #2

Finally, Jeff stepped out of the office with Patrick behind him. Naomi's eyes searched her boss's office to see Damon in his seat, staring right at her.

Was that a smirk? What sick game is he playing now?

“I have an announcement every nine,” Jeff said and the staff gathered around. It was only a matter of minutes before every staff member in the company made their way to the design department. The hallway was full of expectant people, desperate to keep their jobs.

“ This company is now a subsidiary of the Hilton empire. I was able to Reigate the terms and they will be keeping the staff, you guys. So no one is getting fired.”

There was an audible sigh of relief from everyone, they all thought they would be losing their jobs!

“The new administration, however, will be laying down new rules, something quite different from what you're used to here,” Patrick announced, earning silence throughout the hall.

“My name is Patrick and I'm Mr Damon Sinclair's Personal assistant.”

The hall erupts in whispers and chatters once more.

“I am sure we're all aware of the departmental presentations that will take place. You have the rest of the week to get it done. Like Mr Jeff stated, there will be new rules and a few of you will be transferred to a different branch.”

Naomi took in a shaky breath, this is really happening! Her boss sold the company to Damon!

“That will be all for now. The head of departments and their assistants are to report to the CEO's office in thirty minutes.”

Patrick took his leave, leaving Jeff and the staff in the hallway.

“Mr Jeff, why did you sell the company?” Someone asked.

“My thoughts exactly.”

Jeff smiled. “I assure you, you're all in good hands. That I can assure you.” Jeff takes a slight bow in apology. “I'm really sorry.”

Jeff walks out, leaving everyone more confused than ever.

Naomi exhales and returns back to her office, Soonie right beside her.

“But it makes no sense! Why didn't he fire everyone? He's doing this on purpose isn't he?”

Naomi exhales. “I don't know him well enough to understand his motives, Soonie.”

“You think he has a reason for doing this? A motivation? Whatever the reason is, it’s dumb!”

Naomi settles in her seat. “I have thirty minutes to prepare. I don't know why he wants to see the team leads and their assistant..”

Tita approaches Nomis desk, a frown on her face. “You heard the announcement right?”

“Yes, I'm trying to…”

“Don't bother coming! You're just an assistant, what could he possibly want to discuss with you?” Tota asked.

“But he said he wants to see..”

“And I said stay back! You're a disgrace to our department! The last thing I want is to present a divorcee as my assistant! It's quite embarrassing!”

Tota works away and slams the door behind her. Soonie groans. “I want to smash her head against a wall so badly!” she gritted.

“Just ignore her and do as she says,” Naomi replied.

If there's one thing she's learned from working with Tita, do never disobey her instructions, or you'll have yourself to blame for it.

“Really? Patrick said he wants to sew both the department heads and their assistants! What if she's trying to get you fired?” Soonie reminded.

She had a point. She's not the company owner, so why should she listen to her?

“You worked so hard to get into this company, worked your way into being a team lead only for that pest to take credit for your work! If only you stand your ground on other things besides that man you call husband!”

Naomi glanced at Soonie who rolled her eyes. She had a point and she knew it.

“I need to start preparing for the departmental presentations. I have a lot on my hands right now.”

Soonie made her way to her desk, muttering under her breath. “Of course you do.”

♡♡♡

Thirty minutes later, every department head and their respective assistants hurried to the board room to meet with Damon. Naomi gould see the panic on their faces as they all walked past her work area.

“You need to hurry up! Who knows, they might just fore us for showing up late, worse still, not showing up at all!” A team leader said to his assistant who is struggling to balance a dozen files he had in hand.

Tota strolls out of her office, not sparing Naomi a glance. Naomi bit her lower lips, stopping herself from asking Tita if she could attend the meeting too.

She already said no. And she pretty much gave her her reason, which made no sense, by the way.

Naomi glanced at Soonie’s desk but it was empty. Probably in the restroom.

She gets out of her seat, garbage a few folders, and heads straight for the meeting! Tita didn't have the power to fire her; there was no point in taking her so-called instructions seriously.

She made it in time but she made sure to stay far away from Tita to avoid drama. Damon was addressing the crowd and the look in his eyes was rather intimidating.

“I'll make this quick. It is true I made a bargain with Mr Jeff before signing the documents but that doesn't mean I won't fire you if I deem you incompetent. Hilton Empire didn't become number one out of luck; it got there through hard work and intelligence. And that can only be if the staff do their jobs well! There will be a commendation. For your hard work, we're thinking of doubling your pay and including other benefits. But…”

His eyes landed on Naomi in the crowd and narrowed on her. She stares him down; she did nothing wrong!

“The presentation is to give work reports on what you've achieved thus far, and if you're not productive, I will fire you. Regardless of who you are.”

Naomi narrowed her eyes on him, there's no way he's referring to her in this case!

“Am I clear Mrs Naomi Pearl?”

All eyes turned toward her as well as the dark, angry gaze of Tita.