Hearts of Stone, Hearts of Gold

Chapter 3 - A Normal Day... Sort Of

Dane's POV

"Thomas," I called the second the elevator doors opened on my floor. "I need to see you in my office immediately."

"Yes, Mr. Williams."

"Ally, I need my schedule on my desk in less than five minutes and I need you to phone my brother and tell him that I can't meet him at seven tonight and can we push our dinner back an hour."

"Your schedule is already on your desk, sir," she told me and I smiled warmly at her and thanked her just before entering my office.

I took my jacket off and hung it on the coat stand beside my bookshelf. "Close the door behind you, please, Thomas."

I heard the soft click of the door shutting as my assistant walked into my office.

"Your nephew is arriving today, isn't he?" I asked him as he sat down opposite me at my desk.

"Yes, sir he is. Thank you once again for giving him this opportunity. He's a good kid."

I nodded in reply while glancing over my schedule. "I hope he's good at making coffee."

"The best!"

"I'll tell you, Thomas. You'd make a great salesman."

He chucked softly at my remark. "Thank you, sir. But I think I prefer this career path."

"I'm glad you do."

I stood from my desk and make my way towards the ebony coloured bookcase along the window. I take my laptop out of my briefcase, which is leaning against the bookcase.

"I should be here when Ben arrives," I continued. "I don't have any meetings scheduled for this morning, but if something were to crop up, I'll need you to give him a tour of the place."

"Of course, Mr. Williams. He should be here within the hour."

"Good."

There is a commotion from outside my office door and Thomas and I both looked towards the sound.

"Sir, you can't just barge in here without an appointment!" I heard Ally cry.

I placed my laptop on the desk before making my way towards my door, Thomas close on my heels.

I yanked open the door just as a large, balding man made to do the same.

I threw a glance towards Ally to make sure she was okay before turning to the breathless man.

"Can I help you?" I asked curtly.

"I need to speak with you, Mr. Williams."

"I gathered that. Was it not possible for you to make an appointment before shoving your way past my receptionist?"

"It's an urgent matter," he snapped.

"Clearly." I stepped back to allow him to enter my office. "Take a seat, I will be with you in a moment."

I watched him hobble towards my desk and sit down in the chair Thomas was sitting in seconds before.

"Ally," I said. "Are you alright?"

"Yes, Mr. Williams. Thank you."

I smiled gently towards her before glancing back into my office. "Have security on standby," I told her. "Just in case."

She nodded in understanding before picking up the phone.

"Thomas, please wait here for your nephew to arrive. I'd prefer him not be in my office when this gentleman leaves."