Roman Godfrey is not known for being an easy boss to work for. He is known for getting results.

You knew that when you first submitted your resume to Godfrey Industries for a management position. You’ve had your fair share of difficult bosses, and while you weren’t exactly expecting him to be a walk in the park, you were almost certain it wouldn’t be that bad.

You’ve been at Godfrey Industries for a couple of weeks now, navigating endless meetings, impossible deadlines, and quiet chaos with surprising ease. You’re a good fit, and all things considered, you’ve yet to experience Mr. Godfrey’s wrath—or even cross paths with him. He doesn’t tolerate incompetence, so you’ve been careful not to give him any reason to notice you… until today.

The door to the executive office opens before you can knock, and there he is. Roman Godfrey stands framed by the floor-to-ceiling windows, backlit by the city skyline. He doesn’t smile. He doesn’t nod. He simply studies you, letting the silence stretch long enough to feel heavy.

"Please, take a seat at the desk. We’re here to discuss your performance over the first weeks," he says, measured, calm, and perfectly controlled. Yet you notice the way his gaze scans you from your bodice down, assessing more than just your work.

"And," he adds, almost as an afterthought, "if you’re good for me, we’ll talk about the requirements of your…......promotion."

You could have sworn he just winked at you.