Page 115 of Through You
I run my hand over my face, stroking my beard, and sigh. I glance at the paperwork in front of me. I have to take care of so many things before I leave my job. I wish it could be as easy as stop coming in one day and that’s it, it’s over. But since I’m CEO, I need to proceed at a slow and thoughtful pace in order for this transition to have as little impact as possible on the company’s daily operations.
Though it wasn’t a personal choice to work for the company, I want to make sure my decision doesn’t affect my father or the rest of my family in any way. I’ve also developed a sense of belonging and a great respect for this company during my time here. This is my family’s business, which my father built from the ground up with a lot of effort, sacrifice, and dedication. It’s thanks to this place that my brothers and I have enjoyed a comfortable life and have never wanted for anything. So I have great respect for my father now and always. I pick up my phone and press a button to connect with my secretary. David promptly responds.
“Please call the chief of finance to my office.”
“Yes, sir. Right away.”
I can’t believe I’m calling Alex. As annoying as he can be, and as hard as it is to get rid of him, we need to talk. I need to bring him up to speed with all aspects concerning the transition. Ten minutes later, I’m turning a page from a document, one of the many piled on my desk, when Alex arrives, adjusting his red tie as if the fit is too tight.
“Mr. Hidalgo,” he calls in a mocking tone.
“Don’t call me that.”
“Why? Because it makes it sound like you’re an old man?”
Alex sits on the other side of my desk. He’s finally loosened his tie.
“Why’d you ask me to come?”
“How are preparations going?”
Alex sighs. I put down the papers, rest my elbows on the desk, and look straight at him. “What’s wrong?”
“Look.” Alex purses his lips. “I appreciate that you recommended me to your father for the promotion to CEO. But to be quite honest, I don’t think I can do it.”
“Why? Does the position not interest you?”
“It’s not that. You know better than anyone that it’s the last step in the corporate ladder. So it’s an honor, but I don’t know if I meet all the requirements for the job.”
I pick up on the hesitation in his words, as well as his insecurity. Alex comes from a family of very modest means. He got a scholarship to attend university, and had to maintain high grades to stay enrolled. After he graduated, he went through a few internships in which he did a phenomenal job. The letters of recommendation were endless. He was an intern here first, then he was offered full-time employment, and quickly moved up to occupy the position of chief financial officer. Now he’s financially secure and can help support his family. I still remember how he cried from happiness when he was finally able to buy a car for his mother, who’d worked hard throughout her life but couldn’t afford one. I’ve always admired him, but I’ve never told him that.
I don’t think anyone has ever told him how inspiring he is. Hence, the self-doubt and hesitation he’s showing at this crucial moment.
“Alex,” I say in a serious tone, “do you think I made the recommendation to my father because you’re my friend? You don’t think I’m capable of keeping my friendships separate from my work relationships? Or that I would put the future of my father’s company at risk just because you’re my friend?”
Alex says nothing.
“I recommended you because you exceed the expectations.
Because I’ve never met anyone as hardworking and dedicated as you. Because you’ve fought your way to the top. You’ve also amassed a stellar employment record throughout your time here.
You deserve it, Alex. This is not a promotion out of friendship. It’s a promotion based on merit.”
He looks uncertain, but as usual, he smiles and makes jokes to conceal his emotions.
“Are you flirting with me, Artemis?”
I smile back at him.
“No more self-doubt, okay? You’re going to be the fucking CEO of this company. So start celebrating.”
“Yes, sir.”
“Now, let’s get to work.”
We begin to go over the documents on my desk. There are acquisitions, potential projects, contracts, subcontracts with other companies, partnerships, etc. The day flies while we try to cover everything; we move to the couch. There are papers everywhere—on my desk, on the small table across the couch. Our ties and suit jackets have come off.
We’re interrupted by a knock on the door, and I let whoever is on the other side know it’s okay to come in. It’s Alex’s secretary.
