บท 2: The Boss
Later that morning, Bianca stood in front of the towering glass building that housed Schuyler Enterprises. The structure gleaming under the sunlight, its sleek design a mix of modern innovation and elegance. The tall windows reflected the city around it, and the logo—bold silver letters spelling Schuyler Enterprises—sat proudly above the entrance. The revolving doors beckoned her inside.
Bianca smoothed her blazer and took a deep breath. "You've got this," she whispered to herself before stepping into the lobby.
Inside, the lobby was just as impressive. Polished marble floors shone like mirrors, and modern furniture with sharp lines was arranged in neat clusters. A large reception desk made of white stone stood in the center, where a neatly dressed woman with a bright smile sat typing at a computer. The receptionist wore a crisp white blouse tucked into a navy skirt, her blonde hair pulled into a sleek ponytail, and her silver earrings caught the light as she moved.
"Hi," Bianca began, trying to sound calm despite the flutter of nerves in her stomach. "I'm here for the nanny interview with Mr. Schuyler."
The receptionist glanced up, her warm smile never wavering. "Ah, yes. His ten o'clock is running late, but he told me to send you in. Follow me."
Bianca straightened her shoulders and followed as the woman led her through the halls of Schuyler Enterprises. The interior was just as immaculate as the lobby, with muted tones of gray and white accented by vibrant abstract artwork.
But as soon as Bianca stepped into Mr. Schuyler's office, her carefully maintained composure shattered.
The office was a mix of sophistication and comfort. A large mahogany desk sat near floor-to-ceiling windows offering a breathtaking view of the city. Bookshelves lined one wall, filled with an array of titles, and a sleek leather couch with a small coffee table occupied another corner.
Then she saw him.
Ken Schuyler glanced up from his desk, and Bianca froze. He was even more stunning in person. His thick, dark hair was neatly combed back, and his sharp, angular features seemed carved from stone. His piercing blue eyes locked onto hers for a brief moment, and her heart skipped a beat.
She was so lost in her thoughts that she barely noticed the man sitting across from him.
"...Still need to discuss the marketing for the Nova project," the man said, leaning back in his chair. His name tag read Daniel. He wore a navy suit that fit his athletic frame perfectly, his light brown hair styled in soft waves. "I say we go all in on the healthcare side—put our money into doctor ads."
Ken gestured for Bianca to take a seat but didn't stop the conversation.
"Isn't that the same strategy that almost sank our last attempt to enter the women's healthcare sector?" he asked. His tone was calm but firm. "I need you to think outside the box, Daniel. You know how important this is to me."
Daniel frowned. "I suppose we could go straight to the source...but women don't want all the science-talk thrown at them."
Ken's gaze shifted to Bianca. "What do you think?"
Bianca's head snapped up. "Me?" she stammered.
"Yes, you, Ms. Martins. How would you market new tech designed to make C-sections safer and easier?"
Bianca blinked, her nerves threatening to overwhelm her. But then she straightened, her confidence returning. "I think you should use a viral marketing strategy," she said firmly. Her eyes flicked to Daniel. "Just because they're women doesn't mean they can't handle the science-talk."
Ken's lips curved into a smile. "I couldn't agree more." He turned back to Daniel. "I want a new plan on my desk by the end of the day—something that takes her advice into account."
"But—"
"Or do I need to find someone else to take over the project? Ms. Martins is already here for an interview…"
Daniel sighed, gathering his papers. "I'll get it done," he muttered before leaving the room.
Now, Ken's full attention was on Bianca. His gaze was intense, almost too much to handle.
"I'm sorry about that," he said with a small smile. "I've got a packed schedule this morning, but I'm glad you could come in."
He looked her over, his expression unreadable, and let out a soft exhale. "I see you dressed to impress."
Bianca tilted her head, a playful smile tugging at her lips. "Did it work?"
"It did," he admitted, a satisfied grin crossing his face. "You already look like you belong here. It's nice to officially meet you, Ms. Martins."
He extended his hand, and when their skin touched, a spark shot through her. She felt her pulse quicken as she struggled to keep her thoughts professional.
"Tell me," Ken said, leaning against his desk. "What made you apply for this nanny position?"
"Honestly," Bianca began, "I love kids. I have a natural affinity for childcare. I enjoy teaching them patience and self-discipline, but I also like to have fun. I'm very energetic and playful."
Ken nodded. "My boys definitely need all those things."
He crossed his arms, and Bianca couldn't help but notice how his shirt stretched across his broad shoulders.
"I just earned my master's in chemistry," she added, forcing herself to focus. "And my lab work has definitely prepared me for taking care of kids. After all, chemists are used to handling high-stakes spills."
Ken chuckled, and for a moment, his gaze lingered on her. Then he cleared his throat and looked away.
"The boys are still grieving their mother," he said softly. "It's been almost six years, but..."
Bianca's chest tightened. "That's not something you just get over," she said gently.
"Exactly. And I'm afraid they often take it out on their nanny. Can you handle that?"
Bianca nodded. "Of course."
Ken studied her for a moment before leaning forward. The air between them seemed to crackle with anticipation.
"Then I have one more question for you, Ms. Martins. And I want you to be completely honest."
Bianca swallowed hard, her heart pounding. "Go ahead."
"If you could go back in time and tell your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?"
She smiled. "I'd tell younger me to believe in myself. I'm proud of who I've become, but I could've gotten here much faster with more confidence."
Ken's expression softened. "Very impressive. You're wise beyond your years—"
The receptionist appeared in the doorway. "Sorry to interrupt, Mr. Schuyler, but your car has arrived for your lunch meeting at The Ivy."
Ken nodded, then turned back to Bianca.
"The next part of this interview will take place at my home."
Bianca's eyebrows shot up. "It...will?"
Ken handed her a card with his address written on the back.
"See you at seven, Ms. Martins."
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