The next morning, Alexander Harrington arrived at Harrington Tower earlier than usual. He had spent all night thinking about the girl he had seen yesterday, the one sweeping the street with quiet pride. He didn't know why she lingered in his thoughts, but he couldn't ignore the pull he felt.
When he stepped out, she was there again, bending over her cardboard box, collecting every scrap of paper as if it were treasure. Workers laughed quietly behind her back, but she moved like she owned the sidewalk, unfazed by their whispers.
Alexander straightened his suit and approached her, catching her attention for the first time. Her eyes widened slightly, a mix of caution and surprise, but she didn't step back.
"I see you here every morning," he said, his tone calm but firm. "Do you work around here, or...?"
She shook her head. "No, sir. I just... I pick up what others leave behind." Her voice was steady, but there was a subtle pride woven into every word.
Alexander studied her for a long moment, noting her careful movements, her resilience, and the way she held herself despite the teasing around her. He had seen many people in his life, people with money and connections, but she was different.
"I want you to come inside," he said suddenly. "We could use someone like you at Harrington Industries. There is work here, and you will be treated with respect."
She blinked, unsure if he was serious. "Inside... the office?"
"Yes," he said, straightening his shoulders. "You will start tomorrow. My assistant will show you the way."
Her lips pressed together. She had expected mockery, perhaps even dismissal, but not an offer from the CEO himself. She hesitated for a moment, then nodded. "I'll try my best."
Alexander gave a small, satisfied nod and turned toward the lobby. As he walked away, he didn't notice a sleek car pulling up to the entrance. A young woman in designer clothes stepped out, her eyes scanning the scene with a sharp, calculating look. She paused for a moment, her gaze lingering on Alexander, and smiled faintly.
The game had just begun.
