Eleanor Oliphants determination to keep the company out of Christian Greys hands was evident in her decision to push Claire Randall, a relative outsider, into a position of power. As Claire stood up from the breakfast table, she felt the weight of the Cullen familys expectations and the uncertainty of her own future.
"Come with me," Eleanor said firmly, leading Claire out of the dining room and towards the study where important family matters were often discussed.
Once inside, Eleanor closed the door and turned to face Claire. "You must understand, Claire, that Everdene Auto Inc. is crucial to the future of this family. Its been Edwards domain for years, and now its time for you to take the reins."
Claires heart raced. She had never been interested in the business side of things, but she could see the importance of what Eleanor was asking. "But Mrs. Oliphant, Im not sure Im the right person for this. I dont have any experience in managing a company."
Eleanors eyes softened, and she placed a hand on Claires shoulder. "Nonsense, my dear. You are a Cullen now, and we need you to step up. Besides, youll have the support of our team at Everdene. They are loyal and will guide you through the process."
As they made their way to the company headquarters, Claire couldnt help but feel like a pawn in a much larger game. She knew that Eleanor was using her to keep Christian at bay, but she also recognized that this could be an opportunity to prove her worth and maybe even change her own fate.
Upon arriving at Everdene Auto Inc., Claire was greeted by a sea of unfamiliar faces. The employees, sensing the tension between the two brothers, were cautious in their interactions with Claire. She could feel their eyes on her as she made her way to the office that had once belonged to Edward.
The office was spacious and filled with modern art and sleek furniture. Behind the desk, a wall of windows offered a stunning view of New York City. Claire took a deep breath, trying to steady her nerves. She knew that she had a daunting task ahead of her, but she was determined to give it her best effort.
As she settled into her new role, Claire began to familiarize herself with the companys operations. She attended meetings, reviewed financial reports, and met with the senior management team. Slowly, she started to gain a better understanding of the business and the challenges it faced.
However, her primary focus remained on the contracts that needed her signature. Eleanor had made it clear that her main responsibility was to sign off on deals and agreements, ensuring that the companys legal affairs were in order.
One day, as Claire was reviewing a stack of contracts, there was a knock on her office door. She looked up to see Christian Grey standing in the doorway, his presence as imposing as ever.
"Good morning, Claire," he said smoothly, entering the office without waiting for an invitation. "I trust youre finding your way around the company?"
Claire nodded, trying to ignore the way her heart skipped a beat at the sight of him. "Im getting there, thank you."
Christian sauntered over to the desk and picked up one of the contracts. "I see youre busy with the paperwork. I wanted to discuss a particular deal with you. Its quite important to me."
Claire tensed, knowing that Eleanor had expressly forbidden her from signing any contracts put forth by Christian. "Im sorry, Christian, but I cant sign any contracts without Mrs. Oliphants approval."
Christians eyes narrowed, and he placed the contract back on the desk. "I see. Well, Im sure we can find a way to make this work to both of our advantages. After all, we wouldnt want any... complications... to arise, would we?"
His words hung in the air, a clear threat beneath the surface. Claire swallowed hard, feeling the pressure of her situation. She knew that she had to tread carefully, as one wrong move could have serious consequences for her and the company.
"Ill... Ill discuss it with Mrs. Oliphant," she stammered, trying to buy herself some time.
Christian smiled, a cold and calculating expression that sent a chill down Claires spine. "Very well. I look forward to your decision, Claire. Remember, the future of Everdene Auto Inc. is in your hands now."
With that, he left the office, leaving Claire alone with her thoughts and the heavy responsibility that had been placed upon her. She knew that she had to make the right choices, not just for the company, but for her own future as well.