Christopher's Playhouse

Chapter 10: Affection Pt. 1

Los Angeles, California:

It had been a week since Sloane had officially settled into her new role as Christopher's Executive Assistant. She adapted quickly, her meticulous organization and unwavering composure impressing him enough to make her irreplaceable in such a short time. The office thrived under her watchful eye, and even Christopher, with his controlling tendencies, seemed to grow accustomed to her efficient presence.

Today, Sloane had just finished reviewing a proposal when the door to Christopher's office opened unexpectedly. She glanced up from her desk and saw a familiar figure enter—Marley, Christopher's former assistant. There was a noticeable tension in the air as Marley strode in, her expression tight but determined.

"Christopher," Marley began, her voice softer than usual. "I wanted to talk to you about coming back to work."

Christopher didn't even bother to look up from his desk, his fingers tapping rhythmically on the screen of his tablet. "Why would I do that? Sloane's doing an excellent job," he said, his tone as dismissive as ever.

Marley's face flushed, a mixture of embarrassment and frustration crossing her features. "I know she's good, but I was your assistant for years. I know how you work, and I—I want my job back."

Christopher finally looked up, his piercing eyes locking onto hers. He leaned back in his chair, a smirk playing at his lips, as if amused by her plea. "Marley, I don't need you as my assistant anymore."

Marley's lips parted to protest, but he held up a hand to stop her.

"But," he continued, "I could find another use for you. Be one of my girlfriends. You always had a way of making things interesting." He raised an eyebrow, as if this was a perfectly reasonable alternative.

Marley froze, stunned by the suggestion, her face flushing deeper. "Christopher... that's not—" she stammered, completely thrown off guard. Yet, there was a moment, a brief flicker of hesitation, where she considered it. Maybe it was desperation, maybe something else, but she swallowed and began to nod, almost ready to agree.

Just as she was about to speak, the door to Christopher's office opened again, and Sloane walked in. Her calm, confident presence immediately drew their attention. She didn't even hesitate as she made her way to Christopher's desk, her voice steady as she spoke.

"Christopher, you can't let her be your tenth girlfriend," Sloane said, her tone matter-of-fact, as if discussing a business deal. "She knows too much about your work. Inviting her into your home would be a mistake."

The room fell silent, both Christopher and Marley blinking at her words. Marley, stunned, looked at Sloane, as if trying to process how she had the audacity to speak to Christopher like that.

Christopher, on the other hand, looked thoughtful. His eyes narrowed as he considered Sloane's words, then gave a slight nod, acknowledging her point.

"You're right," he said slowly, his voice cold and calculating as always. "Marley knows too much. It would be... dangerous."