The Contract Said No Strings Attached (Charlotte) novel Chapter 289

At that moment, Director Porter walked over with a bright smile, greeting Garcia with unusual deference. “Ms. Yates, this is Mr. Austin’s schedule. From now on, you’ll be in charge of all his daily needs.”

It was a striking change—Director Porter, usually known for his fairness and professionalism, now sounded almost ingratiating as he spoke to Garcia. Clearly, her background made even him tread carefully.

Everyone in the office watched as Garcia received this special treatment the moment she arrived, and envy filled the air.

“So Garcia really does have connections. Looks like we’d all better stay on her good side from now on,” someone whispered.

Colleagues murmured among themselves, their eyes brimming with jealousy.

Garcia accepted the documents from Director Porter with a proud smile. “Thank you, Director Porter. I’ll do my best.”

But he waved her off, still smiling. “No need to thank me, Ms. Yates. It’s my job.”

His attitude made everyone regard Garcia with newfound respect.

A moment later, Director Porter turned to Rebecca and lowered his voice. “Raina, you’ll hand over your current responsibilities to Garcia. From today, I’ll assign you to some other tasks.”

Gone was the deferential tone; his words to Rebecca were brisk and impersonal—strictly business.

That suited Rebecca just fine. She’d been wanting to avoid more interactions with Dylan anyway. “Alright,” she agreed without hesitation.

Director Porter nodded approvingly, obviously satisfied with her attitude.

Truth be told, he’d always appreciated Rebecca’s professionalism and competence. If Mrs. Austin hadn’t pressured him to look after Garcia, he wouldn’t have made the switch.

Meanwhile, Garcia organized her new files and, brimming with excitement, prepared a fresh cup of coffee. With the documents in one hand and the coffee in the other, she headed straight for Dylan’s office.

Inside, Dylan was absorbed in work, barely noticing her until the clink of the coffee cup landing on his desk broke his concentration. He looked up, expression cool and distant.

But instead of softening, Dylan’s expression grew even colder.

He took in her uniform and asked in a frosty tone, “I asked, what are you doing here?”

His words sent a jolt through Garcia.

She forced a smile, answering quickly, “I’m the new secretary. I’ve joined the admin team, so if you need anything—work or personal—you can come to me.”

She tried her best to sound upbeat, hoping to make a good impression.

But suddenly, Dylan’s face turned even more severe. “Get out. Send Director Porter in.”

Caught off guard, Garcia hesitated, confused about what she’d done wrong and why Dylan seemed so angry.