Bound by Power

Chapter 8 : Lucas

The next day, Alexis had a work-related meeting scheduled with Damien and decided to bring her assistant, Claire, along.

Claire was efficient, sharp, and had been a tremendous help in managing Alexis's hectic schedule.

As they entered the impressive lobby of Blackwood Enterprises, Claire looked around, visibly impressed. "This place is incredible, Alexis."

"Yeah, it is," Alexis replied, smiling. "Let's head up."

They approached the reception desk, where Alexis introduced herself and Claire. "Hello, I'm Alexis Carter, and this is my assistant, Claire. We have an appointment with Damien Blackwood."

The receptionist nodded and smiled. "Welcome, Ms.Carter and Ms. Claire. Please take the elevator to the 20th floor."

As they reached the 20th floor, Emily, Damien's secretary, greeted them with her usual warmth. "Ms. Carter, it's good to see you again. And you must be Claire. I'm Emily."

"Nice to meet you, Emily," Claire replied, returning the smile.

"Damien is just finishing up a meeting, but he'll be with you shortly. Would you like to wait in his office?" Emily suggested.

"That would be great, thank you," Alexis said.

As they settled into the office, Emily offered them refreshments. "Can I get you anything? Coffee, tea, water?"

"Just water for both of us, please," Alexis replied.

A few minutes later, Emily returned with their waters. "Damien should be here any minute."

As they waited, the door opened, and Lucas entered. "Ah, Alexis! Good to see you again. And you must be Claire. I'm Lucas, Damien's best friend and business partner."

Claire shook his hand, clearly impressed. "Nice to meet you, Lucas."

"Likewise," Lucas said with a friendly grin. "Damien's told me a lot about you both. I hear you're quite the dynamic duo."

"We try," Alexis said with a laugh, feeling more at ease with Lucas's easygoing nature.

Just then, Damien walked in, his expression brightening when he saw Alexis. "Alexis, Claire, glad you could make it. I see you've met Lucas."

"Yes, we were just getting acquainted," Alexis replied.

"Great. Lucas, can you give us a moment? We need to discuss some business."

"Of course. Nice meeting you, Claire," Lucas said before leaving the office.

Damien turned to Alexis and Claire, gesturing for them to sit. "Thanks for coming. Let's get started."

As they dived into their work discussion, the atmosphere was professional but comfortable.

Claire took notes diligently, and Alexis appreciated Damien's focused yet collaborative approach.

After the meeting, as they were wrapping up, Damien smiled at Alexis.

"Thanks for coming by. And Claire, it was great meeting you. You two make a great team."

"Thank you, Damien," Claire replied, smiling.

As they left the office, Alexis felt a renewed sense of confidence. The meeting had gone well, and she could feel the growing trust and camaraderie between her and Damien, both professionally and personally.