108 The New Personnel
September 1st, 2025. PSE Exchange Tower. "Wait...what are you talking about? You are sending me a personal secretary?" Michael exclaimed over the phone. "That's correct Michael," Bridget replied. "Your operations are expanding and so are your responsibilities. Efficiency is a key in business and you must have a capable assistant to manage your daily tasks and ensure that nothing is overlooked. Consider it as delegating some of your burdens so you can focus on the bigger picture and strategic decisions that only you can make."
Michael paused, taking a moment to process the suggestion. "I understand the logic, but it's just... unexpected. Well, if it's someone you handpicked then okay. Who is this person?" "She is one of the renowned secretaries I can offer to you. Her name is Juliet Schmidt. She was trained to become a candidate secretary for the executive officials in the JAB Holding Company. Well since most executive officials there still have their own personal secretary, I figured to offer her to you. She comes highly recommended for her organizational skills, professionalism, and her ability to adapt quickly to new environments. She also has a background in business management, which I believe will be beneficial to you and SolaraTech."
"But I want you as my secretary..." Michael cooed.
"Unfortunately, I'm your investor and partner, I don't do clerical work. Plus, Juliet is not only capable but also a beautiful woman in her early twenties, similar to your age. However, Michael, if you start taking a liking to her in any way more than professional, I'd be more than just mad," Bridget warned her tone light yet carrying a serious undertone.
Michael chuckled a hint of amusement in his voice. "Understood, Bridget. I'll keep it strictly professional. I can't afford to upset my most important partner and investor, can I?"
"Exactly. Remember, she's there to help you with your workload, not to complicate your personal life. I trust you'll handle this appropriately," Bridget said, emphasizing her trust in his judgment.
"Of course, I will. And thank you, Bridget, for arranging this. I'm looking forward to meeting Juliet and seeing how she can contribute to SolaraTech's growth," Michael said.
"Great. I'll send her in right now. Expect that she'll arrive in your office in thirty minutes..."
"Wait? She's already in the Philippines?!" Michael exclaimed.
"Yes, she arrived yesterday. I wanted to make sure she was settled before springing this on you. She's currently at the hotel, just a few blocks from your office. I've briefed her about SolaraTech and your role in detail. She's very much looking forward to contributing to your success," Bridget explained.
Michael nodded to himself, impressed by Bridget's foresight and organization. "Okay, that's... actually pretty amazing. I appreciate you doing this, Bridget. I'll make sure to welcome Juliet and get her up to speed as soon as possible."
Juliet stepped into the office. "Good afternoon, sir."
As Bridget told her, Michael was indeed a very young man. He is in his early twenties with a youthful appearance, short, neatly styled hair, and a confident demeanor. Dressed in a smart, casual outfit that seemed to bridge the gap between the formality of business and the innovation of the tech world, he stood up from his desk to greet her.
"Good afternoon, Ms. Schmidt. My name is Michael Reyes, though I'm sure that you know who I am," Michael said, extending his hand for a handshake.
"Certainly, Mr. Reyes," Juliet said as she accepted the handshake with a firm grip, indicative of her confidence. "Bridget has briefed me extensively about SolaraTech and your leadership. I'm here to support you and the company's mission to innovate in solar energy."
Michael gestured towards a chair in front of his desk. "Please, have a seat, Juliet. Let's discuss how we can integrate your skills into SolaraTech's operations. Your background in business management and experience as a secretary should prove invaluable."
Juliet took the seat, placing her portfolio on the desk. "Thank you, Mr. Reyes. I'm ready to tackle the challenges ahead. I've already familiarized myself with your calendar and some of the immediate tasks that need attention. With your permission, I'd like to start by optimizing your schedule to ensure more efficient use of your time."
Michael was impressed. "That sounds excellent, Juliet. Efficiency is exactly what we need. As SolaraTech grows, the complexity of our operations does too. Having someone with your organizational skills on board will certainly make a difference."
They spent the next hour discussing various aspects of Michael's current workflow, Juliet's proposed improvements, and how she could assist with upcoming projects and meetings. Juliet's professional demeanor and insightful suggestions confirmed to Michael that Bridget had made the right choice in selecting her for the role.
As the meeting drew to a close, Michael summarized their discussion. "It looks like we have a solid plan moving forward. I appreciate your proactive approach, Juliet. I'm looking forward to seeing the positive impact you'll have here."
"Thank you, Mr. Reyes. I'm committed to contributing to SolaraTech's success. I'll start implementing the changes we discussed right away," Juliet assured him.
Michael nodded in approval. "Great..." Suddenly—someone entered his office.
"Sir...we have a problem!"