Between the Pages

Chapter - 2

Happy Reading cupcakes 🧁

Sydney's POV

I wake up just in time for a quick shower and breakfast. I got into the shower and got a little distracted by the scars on my thigh from when I was younger. They never faded. I go deep in thought while showering when I realise I'll be late for my first day of work. I run out quickly and change into my outfit.

Then, I head downstairs and see Noah already dressed up and having oats for breakfast. He made it for me too. How did he grow up so soon?  I hurriedly finish my breakfast and get into the car while waiting for Noah since I have to drop him off at college on my way. I look at the time. It's 8:45 am and I need to reach my office by 9:30. I'll be fine I guess.

SIKE! I wasn't. There was so much traffic that we reached Noah's college by 9:20. By the time I reached my office, it was already 9:45. How could I be late on my first day? So irresponsible of you, Syd.

I head inside the office where I'm met by a sweet-looking girl. I greeted her with my signature smile. "Sydney Floyd, aren't you?"
Wow, she knows me? "That's right ma'am". I say with an obvious hint of excitement. "Ah don't call me ma'am, I'm the same age as yours. I'm Sarah Chandler. It's so nice to meet you". She says and extends her hand forward. I shake hands with her whilst introducing myself. She shows me to my cabin and I gasp.
"No way is this mine".

"I'm afraid it is, hun". Sarah chuckles while looking at my astonishment. "The editorial department is one of the main departments and you're officially the assistant which means you have this cabin all to yourself."
I am in awe. "I can't believe it. Must be dreaming. Anyway, which department do you work in?"
"I'm the assistant of the Graphic Designing department. My cabin is just in front of yours so we can surely hang out during breaks." Sarah exclaims.
"For sure, we will," I reply.

"I must leave now. Lots of work to do. And yes, don't forget to report to your boss aka Mr. Oliver Johnson, the head of the editorial department. Good luck with that tho ;) " Sarah giggles at me and leaves. I look around and head outside to report to my boss. Apparently, his cabin is right beside mine and boy, his cabin is huge has to be an understatement. Have a look yourself.

I stand there in awe again when I notice my boss staring at me. Shit, I forgot the actual reason I came here. "May I come in, sir?"
I mutter shyly. "You're already in, miss." He laughs. "Good morning, sir. I'm Sydney Floyd, the new assistant in the editorial department. I joined today and I know I'm late but I promise I'll always be on time in the upcoming days and I'll never disappoint you with my work and stay consistent. You can let me know about any work you want me to do at any time of the day." I say all in one breath. "A full 8 on 8 for your long answer. Now, may I speak?" My boss chuckles. "Sure sir". I reply looking down. Where has all my hyperactive energy gone now in front of him?

"Good morning, Miss Sydney. I'm Oliver Johnson, the head of the editorial department and you'll be assisting me throughout your job. If you encounter any problems in your work, just let me know. I'll help you out. And make sure, not to be late to work from tomorrow. I take punctuality very seriously." Oliver says. "Acknowledged, sir," I reply. How is he so sweet and scary at the same time?

"Is there anything I need to do right now, sir?" I ask him. "Just get me a coffee. And remember, ½ cup milk and 2 cubes of sugar." Oliver says while looking at his laptop too seriously. Do I look like his personal cook? Anyway, of course, I can't deny it. "Yes Sir!" I exclaim and head outside.

I look around for any hints of where can I find the coffee machine when I notice a guy around my age struggling with the printer. I go up to him and help him out with his copies. He gets up and gives me a shy smile.
"Hello. I'm Daniel Reed. I'm new here. I work in the marketing department." He says. "Heyyy Daniel. I'm Sydney. I'm new here too. I'm an assistant in the Editorial department." I reply. "Thank you for helping me out." He mutters. "No problem, Danny. Is it okay if I call you that? You can ask me for help anytime." I say happily. "Of course. Well, I'll see you around." He turns around to leave. "Hey, wait up! Do you know where the coffee machine is?" I exclaim. "Ah, yes. It's on the 3rd floor" Daniel says. I thanked him and ran to the lift.

I reach the 3rd floor and hurriedly make the coffee not realising I put 3 cubes of sugar instead of 2. I take the coffee and a spoon in my hands and rush downstairs again. I was out of breath when I reached Oliver's cabin. I knocked this time knowingly. I hear a harsh "Come in". I go inside and put the coffee mug on his table.

Without giving me a single glance, he picks up the mug and scrunches up his nose. "This is too sugary. Definitely more than 2 sugar cubes". He says staring into my soul. So picky. "I'm sorry, sir. This was totally accidental". I apologise. "I don't tolerate accidents, Miss. Floyd. Moreover, shouldn't you be more attentive being a member of the editorial department?" Oliver says sarcastically. What's up with him? Wasn't he the sweetest in the beginning?

"It won't happen again, sir".  I bow and say.
"Also, I don't appreciate you maintaining personal relationships in the middle of work". Oliver says. "Huh?". I stare at him in confusion.