Alaric’s Reflection
Alaric remains seated in the conference room after Adeline and Mr. Carter leave.
He leans back in his chair, fingers steepled, a thoughtful look settling over his face as he considers the meeting and his unexpected focus on Adeline.
Alaric Romanio (ML)
*to himself, smirking*
Alaric Romanio (ML)
So, Miss Martino. Not quite as perfect as your presentation made you out to be. A few holes in your armor… and a lot of nerves.
He chuckles lightly, remembering her startled expressions and her attempts to recover from his unexpected questions. There’s a trace of amusement mixed with something else—curiosity.
Alaric Romanio (ML)
*thinking aloud*
Alaric Romanio (ML)
I have to give her credit, though. She didn’t crack entirely. Most people crumble under that level of scrutiny, especially on their first try.
Alaric Romanio (ML)
She’s… resilient. But still—there’s a lot she has yet to learn.
Alaric taps his fingers on the table, the amusement in his expression fading into something more serious as he recalls the way she hesitated, faltering over specifics.
He straightens, a calculating glint in his eyes as he considers her potential.
Alaric Romanio (ML)
If you’re going to be in this line of work, Miss Martino, you need more than just resilience. You need precision, confidence that doesn’t waver.
Alaric Romanio (ML)
‘Belief’ has no place here, only facts. But maybe, just maybe… you have the potential to grow.
He leans back in his chair, resting his hands behind his head as he muses further.
Alaric Romanio (ML)
Still, it was bold of her. Standing in front of me with that nervous energy, doing her best to keep it together.
Alaric Romanio (ML)
I’m surprised Carter brought her in for such a high-stakes proposal… or maybe he wanted to see what she could handle.
Alaric Romanio (ML)
I’ll give her credit for trying. If she can handle a few more rounds of pressure, she might just be someone worth watching.
Alaric Romanio (ML)
But I’m not making it easy for her. If she’s as serious as she seems, she’ll need to prove herself ten times over.
Alaric Romanio (ML)
Let’s see how long that spark lasts, Ms. Martino. You may be clever, but you’re still far from my level.
Alaric Romanio (ML)
If she’s serious about representing her company, she’ll take today as a lesson, not a defeat.
Alaric Romanio (ML)
I don’t have time for amateurs, and I have no interest in people who can’t rise above their weaknesses.
A knock on the door interrupts his thoughts. His assistant, Marcus, steps in, clipboard in hand. Alaric straightens, fixing his usual impassive expression back in place.
Luca (Assistant)
Sir, would you like to proceed with the debrief for the Carter presentation?
Alaric Romanio (ML)
Yes, Marcus. I have a few notes. Have it ready by morning, and ensure all the details are clear. I don’t like surprises.
Luca (Assistant)
Understood, sir. I’ll prepare the summary and include a follow-up on Ms. Martino’s performance if you’d like.
Alaric Romanio (ML)
*after a pause, with a slight smirk* Not necessary, Marcus. I’ll handle it myself
Marcus exits the room, leaving Alaric alone once again.
Alaric Romanio (ML)
If she can keep up, maybe she deserves a place at the table. But if she falters again… it’ll be her last.
Alaric Romanio (ML)
*muttering to himself; stands up while fixing his tie*
Alaric Romanio (ML)
Let’s see how much fire you have, Martino. Because that’s what it takes to keep up with me.
As he leaves the conference room, he can’t help but feel a small thrill at the challenge he’s laid out before Adeline.
This game has only just begun, and Alaric is ready to see if she can truly handle his world.
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