It was an ordinary morning, yet there was so much traffic. It seemed like the whole world had agreed to leave at the same time. I glanced at the clock, wishing time would stop and the traffic would disappear; today was my first day at work and, despite leaving the house on time, it seemed like it wasn't my lucky day.

I turned up the radio as my favorite song began playing, "R. Kelly - I Believe I Can Fly," hoping it would calm my nerves and lift my spirits. While belting out the tune as if I was showering, I realized people in the neighboring car were looking at me. It seems the inner performer in me had done it again. I rolled up the window so they couldn’t hear me and kept on singing.

After a while, the song started to depress me; I wished I had wings to have already arrived at work. It was a sobering thought to realize I'm just a regular human and that my grumpy boss would fire me if I didn’t get there on time. I banged my head on the steering wheel and inadvertently hit the horn; the person in the car in front rudely gestured out the window, and my eyes widened in shock when I realized it was an elderly lady; otherwise, I might've hurled an insult.

Eventually, I managed to take my exit and arrive at the job. I reached the agency three minutes before my start time. I greeted those who helped me during the interview and took the elevator; upon its doors opening, I faced my boss, who was standing by the entrance checking his watch.

"Good morning, or should I say good afternoon?" he said, looking stern, and I lowered my head.

"Good morning, Mr. Cooper. My apologies for being late, it won’t happen again."

"You're not that late, just about four seconds after the start time."

Four seconds? And this quirky man was counting that?

"Follow me, I'll show you to your workspace."

Jasper, my new boss, was serious and sour, known for treating everyone harshly at the agency. The first day I met him, I stumbled into him and he gave me a look worse than a stab wound. His modeling agency is number one in all of California. It’s a privilege or stroke of luck that they accepted me here with so little experience. He's very intelligent and well-known, always featured across the media. Physically, he's quite attractive; tall, pale, slim with an almost perfect profile and face, except when he's frowning. He has brown eyes, dark brown hair, and always styled to trend.

"This will be your desk, right in front of my office. Here's an intercom, through which I’ll summon you when needed. Also, it’s important that you respond promptly to my calls. I lack patience, do you understand?"

"Understood, Mr. Cooper."

"As my assistant, not an executive, you may call me Mr. Jasper."

"Yes, Mr. Jasper."

"The rules are basic; answer calls, schedule appointments, accompany me to all meetings, and always carry a notebook and pencil. Am I clear so far?"

"Yes, Mr. Jasper."

"My schedule is on your desk; you need to keep me apprised of all my commitments and note any new ones I’m informed of. One critical rule; my family occasionally visits during the week and you're not to let them into my office when I'm away. Everything else I'll brief you on as they arise. You signed the contract yesterday, so you should be aware of the basics, besides it's not your first assistant position. Have you understood all that, Ms. Nichole?"

"It's all clear, Mr. Jasper."

"What’s on my agenda now?" he glanced at me, and I hurried to check his schedule.

"You have a meeting in 30 minutes with Mrs. Keyla Peters at the Convention Center."

"Good. Get your things ready; you're accompanying me."

"That soon?"

"Consider that you will spend very little time in the office; I'm mostly in meetings or attending runway events, and you must be there for all of it."

"Perfect."

I gathered what I needed and stowed it in my bag. He handed me his keys and led the way to the elevator. In the parking lot, he showed me his car and I was astounded. The wealthy enjoy certain luxuries. It was a latest model car. What more could I expect? If I crashed a car like this, I couldn't afford to pay for it even if I sold my body. I opened the rear door, thinking he would get in, but he went to the driver's side. I couldn't figure out how to start the car, and he said nothing.

"Excuse me, Mr. Jasper. How do I start the vehicle?"

"You don't usually read instructions, do you, Ms. Nichole?"

"This car comes with them?" I asked, surprised.

Jasper turned his face and I heard him chuckling to himself. I wanted to say so many things, but he's my boss and I couldn't be disrespectful. I checked the driver's side but there was no place for the key.

"Take your time," he looked at his watch, and I felt the pressure mounting.

How could I not start this damned car? I examined the keys and realized there was a start button; pressing it, the engine roared to life. I was amazed. Such an extraordinary vehicle, especially for someone like me. Jasper cleared his throat and I looked at him.

"Now that you've discovered America, can we leave?"

This guy was exasperating.

"I'm sorry, Mr. Jasper," I smiled through gritted teeth.

I should stick this key up his ass to see how hard he laughs then. Damn jerk! I drove us to the convention center and parked in the front, then followed him inside, but he was taking strides like a giraffe. As we walked in, I noticed models chatting in groups and bustling around, along with photographers and reporters. Upon recognizing Jasper, they converged on us. Damn, I had to somehow fend them off. I stepped in front of him and indicated for him to walk elsewhere, and he tried to keep pace with me.

They wouldn’t let us through, and despite my efforts to clear his path, going up against more than half a dozen reporters was a tough battle. Then I felt a gentle hand on mine, and turning, I saw it was Jasper. He gave the reporters a stern look and pulled me along with him. We waded through the crowd, finally able to shake them off.

"I am so sorry; I was supposed to be protecting you," I gasped, letting go of his hand.

"You are my assistant, not a bodyguard. Don’t pull such stunts again; you could have gotten lost in that crowd."

"What does that mean?"

He turned away again, obviously trying not to laugh, then walked on. Was this man still making fun of me? What kind of boss does that? I followed him until he stopped in front of a ramp where numerous models were gathered, and upon his arrival they descended to approach us.

"Mr. Jasper, what a surprise to have you here," they said, nudging me aside to encircle him.

"Sally tells me you’re not cooperating with your new coach. What’s the issue?" He spoke with authority, making them visibly uneasy.

"Give us a chance to explain, sir."

"I despise lack of commitment, and you know that."

"It's just that he’s moving too fast and we don't understand anything he’s doing or saying."

"My friend is a skilled coach; he's trained many famous models without any complaints like yours. I hope I won’t hear any more dissent or I’ll pull your agency from the upcoming event, and you'll have to find somewhere else. Is that understood?"

"We’re sorry, Mr. Jasper, it won’t happen again."

"I hope not," he demanded some space and stood beside me. "This is my new assistant, Nichole. She’ll be watching over you on certain days, so be nice to her."

"Yes, sir," they all looked at me like some odd creature, understandably since I was the only plus-size among them, out of place in that environment.

"Will you be evaluating us, Mr. Jasper?" the blonde with bright eyes inquired.

"Yes, line up," he directed.

They lined up side by side, and he began evaluating each one by touch, checking their figures. The man was a complete perv!

"You’ve improved but still need more, Norma. The rest are fine, keep up the exercises."

"Thank you, Mr. Jasper," they chorused, then returned to the ramp.

Jasper turned towards me, observing my expression.

"What's with the look?" he asked pointedly.

"It’s the only one I have," I blurted out instinctively without thinking.

He raised an eyebrow, examining me intently.

"I mean, I was quite taken aback just now," I tried to backpedal, fearing I'd be fired for mouthing off to my boss. What in the world was going on with me?

"And why would that shock you? Don’t tell me you’re expecting me to do the same to you?"

"What did you say?"

He turned away, a hand to his face, concealing amusement.

"Let’s go."

Was he mocking me yet again? What kind of person did he take me for?

"Good morning, Mrs. Peters," they shook hands.

"Good morning. It's been so long since we've seen each other, Mr. Jasper. I didn't think you'd come to our meeting, especially after the last time's misunderstanding."

"I hadn't planned on attending, but I wanted to show my assistant how things are done," he said in a tone so terse and indifferent, it took me by surprise.

Keyla grinned with her back teeth. This man could insult someone's mother nonchalantly, and no one would confront or react to him.

"This is Nichole, my new assistant."

"A pleasure. It's odd to see someone like you around these parts," she said with a forced smile that I could spot immediately.

"What's she like?" Jasper asked, awaiting her response.

"Different," she looked at Jasper, who remained stoic.

"Of course, she's different; she wouldn't look like Karina."

"Why do we always have to end up on the same topic, Mr. Jasper?"

"Because it's thanks to you that woman tried to drug me."

"That's not true."

"I don't care whether it's true or not; all I know is I'm not interested in mentioning that floozy any further. Let's proceed to the work at hand; you're making my assistant uncomfortable," he said. She looked at me, then smiled again.

"I apologize, Miss Nichole," she said, the strain in her voice evident.

I felt out of place, especially with their exchange. It was obvious how uncomfortable I felt. We walked to the catwalk and stood watching the same women Jasper had talked to a few minutes earlier. He stared at them intently, and Keyla did the same.

"Something tells me Norma is having issues. Are you checking her diet?" Jasper asked.

"Yes, all is in order with her."

"Miss Nichole, I want you to go backstage with the girls once they're done to weigh them. Record each of their weights in the notepad, then bring it to me."

"Yes, Mr. Jasper."

"Don't smudge the notepad," I didn’t understand why he would request that, but I agreed nonetheless.

While Jasper spoke with Keyla, a tall woman with fair skin, wavy hair, and blonde, approached Jasper.

"What a surprise! I didn't think I'd see you here, mother."

"The feeling is mutual. What are you doing here on a day like this?" asked his mother.

"I'm here with Miss Nichole, my new assistant," he motioned for me to come closer, and I stood by his side.

"Pleased to meet you, ma'am," I said politely.

She remained silent, glancing me up and down. I could tell by her expression that I didn't appeal to her.

"This is Cindy, my dear and kind mother," Jasper announced.

His sarcasm was evident immediately. I felt so awkward, I didn't know where to put my face.

"Go with the girls; I'll look for you shortly," he ordered.

"Yes, Mr. Jasper."

I went behind the catwalk where two girls were waiting.

"And what are you doing here?" the blonde with blue eyes asked.

"I'm here on Mr. Jasper's orders. I need to weigh you. Shall we start with you?"

"It's weird they let just anyone come back here."

I saw the scale and stood beside it, deliberately ignoring her comment.

"Orders are orders. Shall we start?" I disregarded both of their snide remarks and went on.

Jasper

"Can you tell me, what in the world is wrong with you, mother? Weren't you taught to be polite?"

"Watch your tone with me, Jasper."

"If you're still upset about what happened with Karina, that's not my problem, but don't take it out on my assistant."

"That's what you call an assistant? Karina was the ideal woman to be your assistant. She had all the right qualities, physical and professional."

"Sure, and she tried to drug me for some unknown reason. Brilliant assistant! Don't make me say it twice; I don't appreciate you taking out your ridiculous thoughts on others," he said, raising his hand as if to slap me, but I caught it in the air. "The time for hitting me ended many years ago, so lower that hand and don't try it again, or I won't hold back."

"You're very defiant since you've become what I see before me."

"Like it or not, this is who I am."

"I want you to get another assistant. If you don't want Karina, fine, but at least find someone who doesn't cause so much talk."

"That woman has a name, and I thought I made it clear. Moreover, that's my problem, not yours. I'll say this only once; do not interfere in my affairs, mother."

Nichole

"You're quite clumsy for an assistant. Have you really done this before?" the blonde with blue eyes asked.

"It's not rocket science to jot down a weight."

"I doubt you weigh yourself often; you'd risk breaking the scale," the girls laughed, but I managed a smile.

"If weight measured fat alone, you'd have a lot to worry about. But if it counted botox and silicone, you might be overweight too."

"Did you hear that, Raiza?" the girls mocked her and, in her fury, she pushed me.

"And who do you think you are? You think just because you're Jasper's assistant, you can do whatever you want around here? You're in the wrong place, whale."

Losing my patience could cost me my job. I tried my best to ignore her.

"Whatever you say. Now get on the scale; I don't have all day."

She glared at me but stepped on the scale. I ignored her demeanor and kept on. After finishing up with all of them, I bade my farewell and descended the catwalk stairs when I felt a strong push from behind, sending me to the ground. Thankfully, it was on the last step, or the fall could have been much worse. My ankle was slightly hurt because of the heels. Only I would think of wearing these to work. Looking towards the stairs, I saw three of them, arms crossed, watching me. I reached out for the notepad and pen, but Jasper picked them up for me.

"What's going on here? Why are you on the floor?" he helped me stand as I tried to rise.

"I tripped, Mr. Jasper. I'm so sorry you had to see me in such an embarrassing moment," I replied, wanting to avoid any trouble.

"And I was born yesterday," he retorted sarcastically and glared at the girls on the stairs. "Come with me."

I grabbed my purse and followed Jasper back up. My ankle was protesting the climb at his pace. Once I caught up, I stood beside him, and he lined all the girls up.

"Who did it?" he asked with a firm and irritated tone. His voice sent shivers down my spine.

They looked at each other, and he walked slowly, eyeing each one.

"Seems like no one intends to speak up. If you want to play, then allow me to join as well. Get outside and run 50 laps around the convention center in heels. Move it, now!" he commanded.

His drastic and exacting punishment left me speechless. Despite witnessing those three on the stairs, I wasn't certain who was responsible, and I couldn't blame Raiza, who wasn't among them.

"Am I included in that punishment?" I asked nervously.

"Do you wish to join them?"

"No, but if I must, I will."

He smiled and shook his head.

"Don't hide things that happen to you. I dislike secrets. I'm letting it slide just for today, alright?"

"I apologize, it won't happen again, Mr. Jasper."

"Let's go outside. I need to ensure they run the laps."

He kept watch over each of them, counting every round they made; he appeared restless, glancing at his watch frequently. An hour and a half had elapsed, and they were far from finished.

"Is there anything I can get for you to drink or eat?" I inquired.

"No, we'll grab something once they're done. Today I won’t be able to show you the selection process, but we'll come back tomorrow," he replied, turning towards me and glancing at my feet. "I recommend comfortable shoes for work. Are you no longer in pain?"

"No, I'm fine now. Thank you for asking, Mr. Jasper."

It hurt like hell, but I wasn’t about to complain on my first day.

"It's not the first time this has happened, which is why I ask you to speak up. If anyone bothers you, don't hesitate to tell me. I'll handle it. Besides, I must warn you, the job won’t be easy. Be prepared for intense pressure; things get rather high-strung here, especially during the beach season."

Two models stopped, and Jasper turned to them.

"You're still missing one, what are you waiting for?"

"We'll tell you who it was, but we can’t run anymore, Mr. Jasper," they said, exhausted.

"Who was it?" Jasper listened carefully. "Alright, now go for the last lap."

"But, sir…"

"You've kept quiet until now, so accept the penalty like the rest," he said, turning his back, ignoring any further remarks.

I must avoid provoking him; I can't imagine the punishment he'd dole out. This man is serious about his rules. He waited for them all to return. Each one looked utterly drained, and to top it off, it was the hottest part of the day. Some returned without their heels.

"Kiara, Nina, and Lucy, step forward," he commanded sternly.

The three stepped up and lowered their heads.

"There's no need to mention what just happened, is there?"

They looked at each other and shook their heads.

"What are you waiting for? Apologize."

They looked at me and apologized in unison. I felt uncomfortable with the situation, yet internally, I was satisfied to see the 'three musketeers' didn't get off too easy. I accepted their apologies and Jasper looked at them again.

"You've wasted a lot of my time, and that's something I can't stand. I won't tolerate such detestable, pathetic behavior. I don't give second chances, especially when you've gone this far. I expect your things to be gathered by the time I return tomorrow."

"But the event's in a month, and we've been preparing, Mr. Jasper."

"Did you consider the event when you pushed my assistant? Be thankful nothing worse occurred, or it wouldn't just be the event you'd be losing now. The others may continue rehearsing; the instructor will be here later, so be ready."

"Yes, Mr. Jasper."

They all left, and Jasper walked toward the car, so I followed. I opened the door for him, and he smiled.

"How gallant of you, but there's no need for door-opening; you're the one boarding now," he said, holding the door as I climbed in to avoid further delays.

Once I started the car, I saw him trace a smile.

"I feared it wouldn't start after everything it took to get it going."

"I take it you enjoy mocking me."

"Did I hurt your feelings?"

"Yes, you did. How was I supposed to know the car starts with a button? Maybe you haven’t noticed, but I'm not wealthy and don’t usually drive cars like this."

"The lack of wealth isn't funny; it's that you're wearing spectacles around your neck you haven't used once. How would you have noticed?"

Is this jerk calling me blind to my face? This car should come with a button that, when pressed, ejects him into the air, seat and all.

"You're very observant, Mr. Jasper," I replied through gritted teeth.

"Yes, and a mind-reader too. You should be cautious with your thoughts," he said, glancing sideways with a smile.

That truly frightened me. I fell silent and looked through his agenda. He had several appointments for the afternoon. It seems he's perpetually busy. Presumably, I’ll accompany him everywhere. Working in a medical office is quite different from working for him.

He stopped in front of Cassell' Hamburgers and got out. I never imagined he’d visit a spot like this, given I'd assumed he frequented places that charge you just to use the restroom. I've often dined here with my colleague; it's my favorite restaurant.

"Are you not getting out?"

"Yes," I said, exiting the car and following him.

When he ordered, he produced his card intending to pay for both meals, and I handed money to the cashier for mine. Jasper glanced at the cashier, and she then looked at me.

"Keep that as a tip and charge the bills to my card," Jasper instructed her.

"Are you sure, sir?" asked the cashier.

"Yes."

"No, miss," I began to say more but Jasper’s firm gaze silenced me.

"Clause 7.1?" he said, awaiting a response as I tried to recall which one that was.

Without a clue, I merely apologized. We moved to a table and took our seats.

"The agency, me in this case, is responsible for providing the necessary provisions for my employee, which includes meals. If I let you pay, whatever you'd earn would just go towards food. Keep in mind you'll be dining out during work hours. Unfortunately, I can't send you home to cook and then come back. Do you understand?"

"I do."

"Did you quit your other job?"

"I have to go in tomorrow to get my documents and submit my resignation."

"Did you like it a lot?"

"Yes, I loved it."

"Was it a doctor?"

"A female doctor."

"That’s great!" he cleared his throat. "I mean, it's good you took this opportunity. I pay my employees well, which is why I demand a lot. It's quite a sacrifice."

The waiter brought our order, and he examined his dish.

"Do you often eat at places like this?" I asked, noting his use of a fork.

"Yes," he replied, unconvincingly.

"Do you come here often?"

"It’s my first time here. Do you?"

"Yes, which is why I was surprised you brought me."

"You mentioned burgers were a favorite during your interview, so that's why we came."

"That wasn't necessary, Mr. Jasper."

"I wanted to. Enjoy your meal."

His method surprised me; it was the first time I'd seen anyone eat a burger with a fork. I wanted to laugh, but I held back, not wanting to face a punishment that included running in heels. After eating, I stretched.

"I'm as stuffed as a pig," I let slip loudly, and Jasper glanced at me.

That’s how Claudia, my colleague, and I speak, and for a moment, I thought I was with her. Embarrassment at speaking so in front of my boss overwhelmed me, and my hand flew to my face. Then Jasper's laughter erupted, as if he couldn't stop, amused.

"It's funny to see your expression right now. You're quite entertaining," he chuckled even louder.

"Do you normally eat burgers with a fork?" I ventured.

"Do you like to run, Miss Nichole?" he asked with a mischievous grin.

I understood him perfectly.

"If I say no, would that make a difference?"

"Who knows."