Chapter 11: Tedious Task

Annabel possessed a photographic memory; she memorized many figures at a glance, quickly grasping the documents' content. Only then did she begin inputting the data into the company's system.

The process was somewhat complex, but she proved equal to the task. She quickly adapted, her typing speed increasing dramatically.

The rhythmic clicking of her keys drew her colleagues' attention. They whispered among themselves:

"Wow! She types so fast! I thought I was a pro, but she'll beat me hands down."

"Didn't they say she's from the countryside, where most people are poor? How does she type so fast? Annabel is full of surprises."

"I agree! Did you see her this morning? She finished all her tasks in a flash! She's incredibly hardworking for someone new to corporate life. We were wrong about her. No wonder she's Mr. Benton's fiancée."

"So what? Haven't you noticed he ignores her? He doesn't even talk to her. And she's been so rude to Nina. I'm sure this heavy workload is punishment. Serves her right. She'll have a hard time from now on. Let's see how long she lasts."

"Whatever! It's none of our business. We shouldn't interfere."

Annabel overheard their conversation. Having much to do, she ignored them. She intended to take breaks for snacks and drinks when needed, and to go for a walk if she felt tired.

Closing time arrived. Most employees left, but Annabel still had considerable work remaining. She went to dinner at six o'clock, taking her meals seriously.

Upon returning, she found Nina furiously pounding on her desk.

"Annabel! Where the hell were you? Are you done with the task? How lazy can you be? I made it clear it had to be finished today! Instead of working, you were strolling, eating snacks, and drinking like a glutton! Why? Is it because you can't do the job? Tell me, and I'll give it to someone else. Will you take responsibility if the company suffers losses because of the delay?"

Annabel covered her ears as Nina berated her. Finally, she said, "If I recall correctly, you said it had to be finished today. It's not even seven o'clock yet. Don't rush me. I know what I'm doing!"

Nina persisted. "Don't be arrogant. You just started here—"

"Enough!" Annabel shouted, raising her hand.

Nina fell silent. The few remaining workers were stunned. Annabel detested noise; Nina was getting on her nerves. "I still have hours before the deadline. If you want to scold me, wait until tomorrow. Leave me alone! If you continue to disturb me, I'll report you to management for hindering my work. You'll take responsibility for any losses, not me. You don't want that, do you?"

Nina was speechless, staring at Annabel angrily. "Okay You're shirking your responsibility. Fine! We'll see about this tomorrow!" She stormed out, then returned, venting her anger on the other employees. "None of you can leave without finishing your work! A bunch of lazybones!"

Annabel sneered, ignored Nina, and continued working. The other employees finished and left. At dusk, Annabel was alone.

She finished her work at 9:30 PM. Other employees would have taken until around eleven, even without breaks. Annabel's efficiency and time management allowed her to complete the task earlier, despite her breaks.