The challenge

Sophia sat at her desk, staring at the campaign plans she’d poured her heart into. Alexander’s words echoed in her mind: “Good, but not great.” She clenched her jaw, feeling the frustration rise again. How could he dismiss her hard work so easily?

But she wouldn’t give up. If he wanted better, she’d give him better. Taking a deep breath, Sophia began going through her ideas one by one, trimming, adjusting, and focusing on the strongest parts. Hours passed, but she was determined to make this campaign something Alexander couldn’t ignore.

The next morning, Sophia arrived early. She was ready for round two with Alexander Cross. She printed the updated plans, organized her notes, and headed to his office, knocking firmly on the door.

“Come in,” his voice called out from inside.

Sophia opened the door and stepped in. Alexander looked up from his computer, his expression as unreadable as ever. “You’re back already?”

“Yes,” she replied, keeping her voice steady. “I’ve made the changes you asked for.”

Without a word, he gestured for her to sit. She laid out her revised campaign, explaining each part briefly, focusing on the changes she’d made. This time, she kept her explanations short, just like he wanted.

When she finished, Alexander leaned back, watching her for a moment. His gaze was sharp, studying her like he was trying to figure her out. “Better,” he finally said. “Much better.”

Sophia let out a breath she hadn’t realized she was holding. “So... you approve?”

He nodded, though he didn’t smile. “Yes. This is what I wanted to see. You took my feedback seriously. That’s good.”

She resisted the urge to roll her eyes. “Well, I take my work seriously.”

“Clearly,” he replied, still watching her. “You surprised me, Miss Grant. Most people just nod along and don’t improve. You actually listened.”

Sophia raised her chin a little, feeling a mix of pride and annoyance. “I’m not like most people.”

His lips curved slightly, just enough to be almost a smile. “I’m beginning to see that.”

They sat in silence for a moment, the tension thick in the air. Sophia felt her cheeks heat up under his gaze, but she refused to look away.

Finally, Alexander cleared his throat, breaking the silence. “Keep up this level of work, and we won’t have any problems.”

“Good,” she replied. “Then I’ll keep doing my best.”

As she turned to leave, she heard him say quietly, almost to himself, “I’d expect nothing less from you.”

Sophia walked out, her heart racing. She’d won this round, but something told her this was only the beginning. The more she proved herself, the more she felt Alexander’s eyes on her. And deep down, she wondered if this strange rivalry might lead somewhere she hadn’t planned.