Conquering the Arrogant CEO

Episode 1

Anne Louize Clifford, I just turned 22, and I've been planning my move to New York for a long time, even against my parents' wishes. They would never understand.

I want to chase my dreams, even if my parents don't understand this fascination with New York. I could stay in New Jersey and look for a job right here, but that's not what I wanted.

I recently graduated with a degree in Journalism and had been looking for a job for a while in my town at my parents' insistence.

After all, they never supported my move to New York; they always believed that I would end up in a bad situation there, having to pay rent and fend for myself in that concrete jungle.

They finally got tired of my insistence and helped me with some savings. It would be enough to keep me afloat for a year until I could fully get back on my feet, and it would make it easier to find a decent job, as they put it.

My older brother, Alex, graduated from medical school. He's been engaged for two years and currently works at one of the most renowned hospitals in the city. That's where he met his fiancee, Holy. She's a bit controlling; I never liked the way she treats my brother, but if he loves her, it's none of my business.

I spent long weeks searching for a place to stay in New York that was within my budget. I finally found a place. The ad said it was quiet, with a family atmosphere, a detail that pleased my parents.

The apartment is fully furnished, a bonus for me. It made my life easier; now, I only have to worry about getting there and organizing my clothes and a few things to make it feel more like home.

A week went by. At the airport, I said goodbye to my family. Mom cried uncontrollably, and Dad, as always, didn't show much emotion.

Mom: "Please call me as soon as you arrive. Don't leave me worried."

"Mom, stop crying. I'm not going to the other side of the world. New York is right next door; you can visit me as often as you want. Come here, give me a hug."

We hugged. Through tears, I separated from Mom and went towards my father. I gave him a hug, and he awkwardly said,

Dad: "Be good, young lady. I wish you luck, and if something goes wrong, you can always come running home."

I rolled my eyes, teasing him. They still don't understand. I know they'll be proud of me one day.

"Thanks, Dad. I love you guys, but I have to go or I'll miss my flight."

Unable to hold back my emotions, I cried. A bit disappointed that my brother didn't come to see me off in person, only sending a text message saying he couldn't come because he was stuck at the hospital. Out of sadness and a bit of pride, I ended up not responding to his message.

After a quick flight, I arrived in New York. Still at the airport, I got a taxi and went straight to the address that would be my home for the next few months.

First impression: the chaotic traffic left me extremely exhausted. The taxi stopped in front of a building with an old facade. The taxi driver, being very kind, escorted me to the building's reception, even though I insisted that I didn't need help. I thanked him with a generous tip.

In the building, a young man, who seemed to be the receptionist, looked me up and down and, with a disdainful expression, addressed me:

Receptionist: "Hello, Miss, can I help you?"

"Hello, my name is Anne Louize Clifford. I reserved one of your apartments a few weeks ago." (Confidently)

Receptionist: "I assume you paid the rent in advance and sent all the paperwork by email as requested because I'm telling you right now, we don't rent our apartments to just anyone."

I immediately turned red, not from embarrassment, but from anger. How dare he treat another person that way, regardless of whether or not I could afford to rent one of the apartments here. He should treat customers better. I tried to remain calm and replied,

"I paid the equivalent of six months' rent in advance and sent all the documentation by email as requested, thus signing a notarized contract. It was sent weeks ago. If that's all, please give me the key to my apartment now, as I'm tired from the trip and faced horrendous traffic to get here."

Aware of who he was dealing with, with nothing more to say, the young receptionist stared at me angrily, took the key, and handed it to me. I thanked him and left his sight.

With great difficulty, I grabbed my luggage and put it in the elevator. It took two trips to carry everything.

Well, this is it. Sixth floor, apartment six hundred and one, my new home.

Being a well-prepared girl, a month before moving, I sent out some resumes to the biggest magazines in the city. Months ago, I couldn't have imagined my life taking this direction. Opportunities were there; I didn't want to waste any chance to grow in life, to be someone, and New York is perfect for that.

After a long shower, I called my parents to let them know that I had arrived safely and had a good trip. I sent them some pictures of the apartment to reassure them a bit more.

My mom was still a little emotional. Dad knew how to calm her down. Ale hadn't arrived home yet. I started to feel sleepy. I said goodbye to my parents, my body overcome with exhaustion, and finally fell asleep.