Chapter 3: The Invitation

The rest of the week passed by in a whirlwind. Lena poured every ounce of energy into refining the campaign. She worked late into the evenings, her mind consumed with Jason’s challenge to think outside the box. It was exactly the kind of opportunity she had been hoping for—an opportunity to prove herself, not just as an employee, but as someone who could think creatively and make an impact.

When Friday afternoon came, Lena felt a sense of accomplishment. She had drafted a proposal that she was proud of—bold, innovative, and aligned with Jason’s vision. Now all that was left was to present it to him.

She barely had time to collect her thoughts before Jason’s assistant, Clara, knocked on her office door.

“Lena, Jason wants to see you in his office,” Clara said, her voice carrying an air of professionalism that made Lena’s stomach flutter.

Lena stood up quickly, brushing a stray lock of hair behind her ear. Her pulse quickened as she made her way to Jason’s office. It wasn’t unusual for him to summon people for meetings, but somehow, this time, it felt different. Her proposal was on the line, and she needed to be prepared for anything.

When she arrived at the door, she knocked twice, waiting for his response.

“Come in.”

Lena took a deep breath and entered. Jason was standing by the window again, looking out over the city. He didn’t immediately turn around, and for a moment, Lena wondered if he had been waiting for her.

“I’ve reviewed your proposal,” Jason said, his voice calm and steady. He finally turned to face her, his gaze flicking over the printed document she had handed Clara earlier.

Lena held her breath, her heart pounding in her chest.

“It’s exactly what I was hoping for,” he continued, his lips curling into a faint but genuine smile. “You’ve exceeded my expectations, Lena. This is impressive work.”

Lena exhaled, a rush of relief flooding her chest. But before she could say anything, Jason added, “I’ll be sharing this with the board next week. In the meantime, I’d like to extend an invitation to you.”

Lena blinked. “An invitation?”

Jason took a step closer, his expression shifting into something more personal. “There’s a gala next Friday—one of our company’s annual events. It’s not just a party. It’s a chance to network with the most influential people in the industry. I’d like you to attend with me. You’ve earned it.”

Lena felt her breath catch. The gala was one of the most exclusive events of the year, a high-profile occasion where only top executives and major clients attended. The idea of being invited was flattering, but it also made her nervous. She had never been one for the spotlight, and the thought of mingling with Jason and his powerful circle made her stomach turn in knots.

“I… I’m honored, Jason,” she stammered, her mind racing. “But I’m not sure I’m the right person for an event like that. I—”

“Lena,” Jason interrupted, his tone unexpectedly soft. “You’re exactly the right person for this. You’ve been an asset to this company, and I want you there. It’s time you step out from behind the scenes. Consider it a reward for your hard work.”

She felt a warmth spread across her chest. He had noticed her. Truly noticed her. It was more than just professional recognition—it felt personal. But at the same time, a part of her was hesitant. This could change everything.

Jason seemed to sense her hesitation. “I know this might be outside your comfort zone, but think of it as a chance to showcase your potential. Plus,” he added with a slight grin, “it’ll give you the opportunity to wear something nice.”

Lena chuckled despite herself. She hadn’t expected him to say that. “I’ll think about it,” she said, still unsure but flattered nonetheless. “Thank you, Jason.”

Jason’s expression softened as he nodded. “You’ve earned it. Let me know your decision by the end of the day.”

Lena hesitated for a moment, then nodded. “I will.”

As she left his office, she couldn’t help but replay the conversation in her mind. The gala, the invitation—everything felt like it was happening so quickly. Part of her wanted to turn down the offer, hide away in the comfort of her usual routine. But another part of her—one that had been quietly growing ever since she met Jason—wanted to step up, take a risk, and embrace what was coming.

By the time she returned to her desk, the idea of attending the gala was already taking shape in her mind. She hadn’t realized how much she longed for this kind of recognition, for Jason’s approval, until he had given it to her.

But as she sat down to finish her work, she couldn’t shake the nagging feeling that this event would be more than just a chance to celebrate her hard work. It would be the beginning of something else—a change in how she saw herself, and maybe, how Jason saw her too.

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