Noona

Chapter 5 - The Model

Musical Suggestion: Aura by JUNNY feat. pH-1

I immersed myself in my work for the next few days. I was not avoiding Ji-Won, but I was avoiding Ji-Won. That night we got too close and I didn't want to cross a line I couldn't jump back over.

I finally narrowed down from my last two candidates for my assistant and chose a young woman named Mindi Lee. I saw potential in her and I wanted her to blossom. She enjoyed life and she was determined to do her best. It was finally Friday and I had had a very long week. It was time for me to get out and have some fun.

"Thank you Mindi for setting up those interviews next week. Did you remember to order the supplies as well to arrive by the middle of next week?"

"Yes Ma'am. Thank you for allowing me to help you to get to know the role. I will do my best, I promise."

Mindi was eager to learn and made sure she understood everything and every expectation.

"Do you have plans this evening Mindi?"

"Yes, Ma'am, I have plans to meet with friends for dinner."

"Mindi," I stopped her quickly.

"Yes Ma'am?" she replied.

"I know you just met me and you are being respectful because I am your Superior,"

"Yes Ma'am," she said, bowing a bit.

"You don't have to do that with me. Only when others are in the office who are visiting the office. I want everyone to relax. We will remain professional but you can call me Abby or Ms. Branson. Whichever you are comfortable with, is okay with me." I said.

I was tired of her calling me 'Ma'am'. I never liked it as it made me feel so old. I certainly did not have that mind frame.

"Are you sure Ma'am?"

"Abby."

"Are you sure, Abby?"

"Yes, I am."

"Great, because I have been wanting to ask you so many questions about how you became a Superior so young! I mean you are amazing. I want to learn everything from you!" she said openly.

She stopped when she realized I was staring at her in shock.

She straightened up and lowered her gaze and head slightly.

I cracked up laughing. She looked amazed and started smiling.

"I guess you have been holding that in, huh?" I said gathering my things for the evening.

"Oh, yes. I'm sorry. I was just impressed by your stature. I did my research on your company. You landed a major brand for your company at the age of 25 years old. You are amazing." she said, smiling from ear to ear.

I must admit, it was very nice to hear someone was proud of my achievements. I was impressed that she did her research not only on the company but me as well. That's why I picked her, she reminded me so much of myself.

"Thank you Mindi. I appreciate that. I have great accomplishments. I can't say it was easy. First I am a woman and then I'm black. It's not a lot of people of color in my position. Therefore I work very hard for what I want so I can leave a very strong impression. I want people to know, I mean business."

"Wow, you speak with so much passion. You really love what you do, don't you?"

"Yes I do. I love what I do. I've always wanted to be the head of an office in the marketing industry."

"Is your husband coming with you?" she asked innocently.

"Unfortunately, I am not married." I said expecting her to be surprised or to respond in a pathetic manner.