6. The Agreement

“Do you intend to be silent all day?” Julian asked since he was uncomfortable with the freezing atmosphere around him. Mia only spoke up to answer the question, while her lips just curled up to greet other people who didn't even smile at her.

"Yes," the girl answered, carefree.

"Why?"

"Because I've decided to stop misunderstanding you," the secretary replied, successfully making Julian massage his temple.

Having gathered some patience, the man leaned forward and put his elbows on the table. "I'm not in the mood for a fight. But, I have something important to say right away," he said firmly.

"When it comes to work, I'll listen," Mia nodded without the slightest bit of hesitation.

"I want to prove that I can change," Julian said, ignoring the girl's warnings.

Knowing the direction of the CEO's conversation, Mia immediately turned around and walked towards the door. Not wanting to let the girl off the hook, Julian immediately got up and grabbed the secretary's thin arm.

“Please listen to me, Mia. I won't be able to focus on work if you keep acting like this. Do you have the heart to interfere with Quebracha's performance?”

After one snort, the girl raised her chin. "What do you want to say, Sir? Say it briefly, clearly, and concisely.”

"Give me a challenge."

Hearing the sentence that was too short, the secretary's eyebrows automatically arched in confusion. "What do you mean?"

“I want to prove that I can be the man you rely on. One who has courage, self-control, and unselfishness. Therefore, give me a challenge.”

Seeing the seriousness of the CEO, Mia tilted her head. "Are you sure?"

"Yes, of course. If I can complete all the challenges, I hope there is no more doubt in your heart. I really love you and am willing to do anything to live with you.”

"Are you proposing to me, Sir?" the secretary asked unexpectedly.

“Don't change the subject, Mia. Just give me the challenge I have to conquer.”

Knowing that she would not be able to escape the CEO's wish, the girl furrowed an eyebrow. “Okay, if you want a challenge. Give me time to think about it.”

"One day," Julian said, pointing his index finger excitedly. He didn't expect Gabriella's suggestion to be useful. "Tomorrow, you must present what the challenge is."

"Deal."

"Deal!"

***

"So, what challenge have you prepared for me, Mia?" Julian asked with sparkling eyes. The corners of his lips had lifted as high as his spirit.

"It's still working hour, Sir. Can't you wait until it's time to go home? I don't want to affect the performance of CEO Quebracha."

"Affect what?" Julian inquired with slightly furrowed brows.

A mysterious smile instantly graced the secretary's face. “I think that challenge will haunt your mind all day. I don't want you to be overwhelmed by it and lose focus."

A second later, the man sighed in disbelief. “Are you underestimating me? Don't worry, I won't be affected. After all, we don't have a meeting anymore. So, you can say it now,” Julian answered confidently.

"Is that so?"

Again, the man nodded.

"Okay," Mia muttered as she pulled out a chair in front of the CEO's desk and sat there.

“I have thought of three challenges for you. Each one represents courage, self-control, and humanity.”

"Humanity?" Julian inquired with a furrowed brow.

After blinking innocently, Mia confirmed. “Isn't that the opposite of being selfish? If egoism means only being selfish, humanity actually refers to caring for others.”

After a tired sigh, the man raised his index finger, sending a signal to Mia to stop talking. "Is it possible that you ask me to hold a social service?" he guessed.

Lightly, the secretary shrugged. "The second and third challenges can't be announced yet."

"Why?"

“Because you haven't passed the first challenge. Why explain something that hasn't necessarily happened yet? It will only waste time and voice,” Mia said, successfully making the CEO sigh again.

"So, you really underestimate me, hm?" Julian grumbled, shaking his head in disappointment.

A second later, the secretary replied, “Not underestimating, but predicting the future. Your chances of successfully passing this challenge are only 20%, Sir.”

Hearing such a small number, the man's hand automatically clenched into fists. “Why is it that low? What are you actually preparing for?”

“Before jumping to the answer, I would like to clarify the rewards and punishments of this challenge. Yesterday, you mentioned about wanting to prove yourself. Let's take that proof as a reward."

Before the secretary could explain any further, Julian's hand was pounding on the table eagerly. "Okay! That means, you have to admit that I can be relied on if I manage to conquer the adversity.”

While crossing her arms in front of the chest, Mia nodded. "Yes. But if not, you should stop urging me to reciprocate your feelings."

"Wait! That punishment is too cruel,” the man protested with round eyes.

"Why? Do you already have a premonition of failure?” Mia challenged while tilting her head.

Receiving such a sneer, Julian chuckled in annoyance. "Okay! After all, the failure would not be real. I can definitely pass the challenge.”

Hearing the CEO's approval, Mia's lips curved mysteriously. “So, are you ready for it this weekend? I'll clear the schedule if you give me permission."

"Of course I'm ready. Then, can we think of it as a date?” the man asked with softened voice.

Ignoring the plea, the woman held out her tablet that displayed a picture of a giant iron structure.

"What's this?" Julian asked, examining the picture more closely.

“Bungee jumping. If you can do it without fainting, it means that you have succeeded in becoming a brave man who's not afraid to take risks.”

With eyes maximally open, Julian's lips began to turn pale. “W-wait a minute. Are you serious? Don't you know that I have a phobia of heights?"

"If you're scared, just give up now," Mia said without the slightest bit of pity.

“B-but, what about my condition? Isn't that dangerous? If the stitches in my intestines open again, will you take responsibility?” Julian asked while holding his stomach which had many scars.

"Don't worry, Sir. I've asked a friend who works there. He said that your physical condition meets the requirements.”

Hearing Mia's casual answer, the man's eyebrows rose even higher.