With the absence of an assistant, many tasks had reverted to being handled personally once again.
Unavoidably, Susan's role had become irreplaceable without anyone realizing it. She possessed talents in administrative diplomacy that Wanda Maximoff simply could not master. Conversely, when it came to managing the internal affairs of the company, Wanda undoubtedly excelled beyond Susan.
Perhaps it was time to find an assistant to play the role of a firefighter.
With this thought in mind, Shasha picked up the phone. "Mary, help me post a job listing."
Soon enough, news of Shasha's intention to hire another assistant spread quickly. Many employees hoping to advance their careers were eager to showcase their abilities. Little did they know, Shasha had no intention of promoting anyone from within the company.
It was still customary for her to be the one conducting interviews; after all, only the boss truly knows what kind of talent they want.
As a result, a steady stream of candidates arrived—some capable, some not, some attempting to impress—ranging in age from twenty to thirty-eight. Among them were those who possessed both skill and looks.
Yet Shasha felt something was missing until a familiar voice broke through her incredulous gaze as someone gracefully took a seat.
"You look quite surprised," the newcomer said with a smile, brushing off the gloom from earlier.
"Indeed, I am surprised. Don’t you have your own modeling agency now?"
The visitor was Elizabeth. Shasha hadn’t expected her to abandon her high-paying modeling career to apply for this assistant position. Was it out of gratitude? Or perhaps guilt over her previous actions? Maybe it was a bit of both.
"I sold my modeling agency and then fired myself. Right now, I’m temporarily unemployed," Elizabeth replied with a sly grin. "So I can only ask you, my big boss, for help."
Shasha couldn’t help but chuckle at this. "Can I really refuse? You make me feel guilty instead."
"This is my choice. You should know that Brian is my only family now," Elizabeth stated resolutely, as if she had made up her mind.
Faced with such determination from Elizabeth, Shasha found it hard to refuse and sighed. "Fine, you can start working tomorrow."
A bright smile spread across Elizabeth's face; this was her way of handling things, regardless of whether Shasha was willing to accept it or not.
When Elizabeth left, Shasha rubbed her temples in frustration. Was this intentional? Could it be considered a form of tsundere behavior? There was no denying that Elizabeth was quite capable, after all, she managed a modeling agency. How should Shasha approach her next time? It was truly a troublesome matter.
Soon, something eased Shasha's worries—Natasha contacted her regarding Anna.
They met in a private room at a restaurant, and when Shasha saw Anna, whom she hadn't seen in months, a relieved smile spread across her face.
"Is there only Anna in your eyes? You completely ignore me, your friend?" Natasha's teasing voice chimed in.
"That's because Anna is my sister, and you're just my friend," Shasha retorted playfully.
Natasha, who seemed a bit thinner after not being seen for a while, couldn't hide her weariness despite her delicate makeup.
Shasha first engaged Anna in conversation. Once the three were seated and the dishes began to arrive, she suddenly asked, "How's life at S.H.I.E.L.D.?"
Natasha paused for a moment before responding as usual, "It's the same as ever. Too many missions to handle."
Shasha remained noncommittal and redirected the question to Anna. "Anna, you go ahead."
Just as Natasha was about to speak, Shasha interrupted coldly, "I want to hear from Anna, not you!"
Seeing Shasha so upset made Anna anxious.
"Don't be scared, Anna. I'm not angry with you. Just tell me how things are at S.H.I.E.L.D.," Shasha reassured her.
Hearing Shasha's words calmed Anna down gradually. She glanced at Natasha, who wore a wry smile, and began to speak softly.
The situation stemmed from Anna herself; there's a saying that gold will always shine. How could someone with Anna's abilities go unnoticed? Especially while being at S.H.I.E.L.D.
As a result, several agents approached Anna under Nick's orders, attempting to coerce her into joining them through intimidation and temptation.
Once, Natasha caught them in the act and ruthlessly chased them away. Soon after, Nick sent word back to Natasha.
The two had a fierce argument, with Nick pointing out that Natasha's heart was no longer with S.H.I.E.L.D., which he saw as an act of betrayal.
As a result, Natasha was having a hard time. Nick's trust in her had diminished, and former colleagues avoided her. The only one who still offered her comfort was her long-time friend, Barton.
After hearing this, Shasha's opinion of Nick Fury plummeted to zero. It was one thing to keep their distance, but this guy actually dared to reach out to her people? And Natasha was only defending Anna as a friend; how could he turn against his long-time assistant so ruthlessly? He truly was heartless!
"If you're not happy, you might as well quit S.H.I.E.L.D.," Shasha suggested.
Natasha's face showed bitterness at those words. "No matter what, Nick saved me all those years ago. Even if he treats me like this now, I never thought about leaving. It's been decades; I've gotten used to it."
Nick not only saved her life but also recognized her talent; otherwise, she would have died long ago in Tsarist Russia.
Knowing she couldn't persuade Natasha any further, Shasha decided not to push the matter. Since Anna had returned, he didn't want to stir up trouble. If there were scores to settle, it wasn't the right time yet, but he knew that eventually, they would have to be addressed.
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