DISCLAIMER: The story is based on characters and situations created and owned by J.K Rowling, and various publishers including but not limited to Warner Bros., Scholastic Books, etc. This story is intended as a fan made story and no money is being made. No trademark and copyright infringement is intended.

AUTHOR'S NOTE: This is a story of a young man by the name of Alex Lee who freed himself from the shackles that bound him to his "fate" that his parents geared him towards. He found a way to escape and start living his life the way he wanted to… well as much as he tried though as the industry he was working at was not something he originally desired to work at. However, it was due to working at a simple internship that opened many doors to him, one of them, leading to the world of magic.

This was supposed to be a short story (no more than 5,000 words maximum). However, as I was writing, I kept on going and going and realized that this story cannot be finished in one short. I am currently working on my fourth chapter as I write this and have to say I really did not expect it to be this long. However, despite it being four chapters long, I do not think that this will run past ten chapters max (though I can be wrong again, but I am trying to keep it under ten chapters if possible). It was supposed to be a story to help me stay away from the main one that I am writing (Albus Potter and the House of Frost). Yet it seems like the main story was put to the back burner a bit.

This also happens to be a story that I wrote right recently after all the hectic stuff this past weekend and week. Since I have some down time, I am going to see how things go. I have summer classes starting up again soon so will see how much I get done before the slow posting happens again.

Also wanted to give a heads up, while I do proof read my works before posting, I still have errors and etc. I am mainly doing this on my free time and actually do not have people proofing this before I post. So sorry for any mistakes. I am not a master of English or writing. I am just a person who has an idea or two and just wanting to share it with others.

Also giving early warning notice. This story will be rated M due to partial/full nudity, sexual content (some very brief moments and possible in depth details later in story), choice languages, and etc.

But yeah I know you do not want to read any more of my rabbling so here is the story. Hope you all enjoy.

Word Count (approx.) – 4,989

Chapter 1 – London Calling

A young Korean-American man by the name of Alex Lee stood outside of the Heathrow International Airport with a nervous expression on his face. So far, his life had been hectic without him being in full control of his life. While he struck gold recently, he wondered how long his new found luck would run.

He was what many would call a genius though he beg to disagree. At the young age of ten, he was already taking high school level courses and applied for to be admitted for Harvard University at the age of fourteen. However, all this was not due to him being a genius but rather his strict parents who kept nagging at him to keep studying and do whatever they wanted him to do. There was never a chance for him to do what he truly wanted to do. One day, he stated he wanted to be a historian which promptly got him punished for desiring a job that his parents thought was "beneath them." To them, a historian never made enough money if they ever made any at all. They never (in their opinion) contributed much to society and was in a sense a waste. So when he deviated from the goals set for him, his parents were sure to quickly set him back on course with a rod forcing him to abandon anything he was truly interested in himself. Thus, he thought his intelligence was due to his parents pushing him.

By the time he entered Harvard, he knew how to decently play two musical instruments (piano and violin), was part of the student body council, played on the varsity tennis team, and even studied and learned the basics of several other languages other than Korean and English. He specifically chose Harvard since he would be able to avoid his parents by living somewhere far away while going to a prestigious school that his parents would approve of. Ever since he enrolled there, he was able to finish his remaining General Ed. Classes early. Also by taking summer courses and quite a few independent study courses, triple majoring in International Business, Business Management, and Pre-Law while minoring in Mathematics and Foreign Language was possible for him within the four years he studied there. While these courses were ones his parents told him to take, he was able to sneak in a minor in History as well.

Alex excelled at his work and studies but never felt any true desire to do anything. During that time at Harvard, one of his professors, Professor Schmidt, noticed the lack of goal or direction coming from Alex and took him under his wing. The professor was determined that if the child would have no motivation in his field of study, perhaps by having him actually do something with what he is learning would help find something he was passionate about.

This led to Alex accepting an internship at the recommendation from his professor. The internship was with an international fashion business that was owned by a friend of the professor. They were expanding into the U.S. and they were just opening up a new office in New York. Due to the expansion, they were looking for some interns who may eventually go full time on the business and operations side. Alex would have declined the job due to it being a fashion company had the professor not explain what perks were available. The internship was only to be on weekends and only on the few weekdays that he was available. It also provided food and lodging expenses so Alex could live close to work during the days he needed to be at work. Plus he was being given a salary of $4,000 per month. Benefits already included as well. This would have be highly suspicious for Alex since there was no job that would provide full benefits, all those perks, and provide a monthly salary (not hourly salary) at that amount for a part-time job especially an internship. However, his professor insisted that the offer was genuine and so he did take the offer cautiously.

The office he worked for was a fashion branch office of the Delacour Group, a large private conglomerate originating in France. Despite that, Alex had a great experience, quickly moving up the ladder and constantly having his "internship" position change. In a sense, he was merely an intern in name only but was treated like a full time staff. His fellow co-workers were all nice and friendly, his supervisors were caring. While he did not care much about fashion, he had to admit that working here would not be a bad idea once he graduates much to the delight of his supervisors. When he told his family that he would continue to remain in New York to work after graduation, his parents were furious. They expected him to study, come back and find a job in Los Angeles, meet a nice Korean girl to marry to and be close to the family… the whole typical traditional family first ideology.

During the last few months before his graduation, Alex argued back and forth with his parents over the phone. He argued stating that he wanted to just have a little time on his own and work in New York and he would come back or try and find a way to have the company set up a new office in a few years in Los Angeles if possible. He however would not meet with the girl that his parents wanted to arrange his marriage to. His parents would have none of that stating that he must obey them since he was their son regardless of him being eighteen years old. They blew up even more when they heard that he spent some time getting a minor in History, a complete waste of time in their opinion. In the last phone call with them, his parents gave him an ultimatum. He either came home immediately after graduating, or he would be disowned. Snorting at the ridiculous, unreasonable, and illogical thinking of his parents, Alex hung up the phone.

June arrived and he walked the aisle and accepted his diploma. While his family did not show up to his graduation, his friends, co-workers, and supervisors from work came to show their support. They celebrated with Alex and for once, Alex felt grateful for having people who truly cared and genuinely took pride in his success. As the came to a close, the branch manager told him to come to work the following day and they would talk about his full-time employment then.

The next morning, Alex sat across from his branch manager, Mr. Leroy, who was looking over some documents and his folder.

"How are you feeling?" his boss asked grinning.

Alex smiled back, "No hangovers if you are asking, sir. For once, I am feeling great."

Mr. Leroy smiled back at him, "Good, good. Now let us get down to business then."

His boss opened up his folder and looked through for a moment before speaking. "You finally graduated from Harvard with a Summa Cum Laude, congratulations on that. And I must once again say I am proud of you."

"Thank you, Mr. Leroy."

"I got in touch with the head and we believe that you are ready..."

Alex mentally crossed his fingers. He was hinted a few times that he had a great chance of taking the assistant branch manager position with the former holder, Robin, resigning. While he may be the youngest employee there, he had a few years of experience and knew the company quite well. He outperformed beyond what the company expected even helping others out whenever he had time. Assistant Branch Manager here I come!

"…to transfer to our London location."

... WHAT?!

Alex had a stunned look on his face. His dream was already falling to piece.

"Um, Alex? Are you alright?" Mr. Leroy asked.

"Uh, I think so. Could you say that again? I could have sworn you said I would be transferring to the London headquarters."

"You are."

Alex suddenly stood up protesting, "But, sir! I was hoping to stay here with you! Forgive me for my arrogance but I was expecting to take over Robin's jo-"

Mr. Leroy raised his hand cutting off any more from Alex.

"This is coming from the CEO directly, Alex. According to them, they want you to go there and help out there, Alex. Meaning you would definitely be a manager there."

Alex stared at his boss shocked before slumping onto his seat.

"I-I… Uh…"

Mr. Leroy laughed chuckled seeing his reaction, "I know a bit of a shock, right?"

"How, sir? The London branch is much larger than New York. In fact, it is the main headquarter for the United Kingdom! To be in such an office and focusing on the London area is a lot. Why select me?"

Mr. Leroy leaned back with a warm smile.

"Well, old Jones (the former Branch Manager) and a few of his colleagues actually retired recently and they were looking for someone to cover his position. The Assistant Branch Manager was also sacked a few days later for their incompetence. Jones did not want to come out of retirement and the other Branch Managers and their assistants do not wish to move mainly due to family reasons. Also..."

Mr. Leroy pulled out a document and passed it to Alex.

"The CEO stated that considering how well you were doing and being the only person who is the closest to qualify for the position and be able to move at the shortest notice possible. Not to mention that you obtaining a Summa Cum Laude cinched the deal."

Alex thought about the new position.

"Do you think I qualify?"

Mr. Leroy looked at him directly, "Truthfully, No, I do not think you are ready."

A little deflated he nodded to himself as he expected that.

"However, I think we all have to start somewhere. And this can be a great chance to prove yourself and everyone just how much we underestimated you," Mr. Leroy continued surprising Alex.

Eventually Alex agreed to the transfer and Mr. Leroy stated that more information including the new benefits and salary would be explained when the CEO met with him.

"Wait, I am going to see the CEO?"

Mr. Leroy shrugged, his eyes twinkling a bit with mischief.

"Oh yes. After all, you have been selected by the CEO personally."

Alex packed up his belonging and spent the remainder of the day celebrating a second time with everyone from the office. Everyone were all sad that he was going to leave them, but proud that he was given this chance. Once packed and helping others finish up their work, everyone offered to help him pack his belongings at his apartment over the next few days as he prepared to leave.

A few days later, with most of his stuff stored away at a local storage unit or given away to others and saying goodbye to everyone, Alex flew off to London.

Now, Alex stood outside the Heathrow Airport with his suitcase smiling as he recalled the memories he made and the people who took him in who treated him like family unlike his actual family. He was going to miss them, but now his new life starts. And so far, with the promotion and First Class ride across the Atlantic to here, it was a very good start indeed.

"Mr. Lee?" a voice asked.

"Yes?"

Alex looked up and saw a man dressed in a black suit standing next to a luxurious limo.

"My name is Robert, I am instructed to take you the office first. Please come with me."

Alex got into the back of the limo as the limo driver stowed his luggage in the trunk. The ride was uneventful and Alex took a short nap. While he was excited about being the next Branch Manager, he was not thrilled that it was in London. He remembered some students complaining that some things were different compared to the U.S. and they had difficulty adjusting. Hopefully, he would not have to face that too much himself.

Eventually the limo arrive in front of a large building that stood easily over twenty-five stories tall. As soon as the car came to a halt right at the front, several people came rushing out and assisted him in, bringing his belongings behind him. While Alex was a little overwhelmed by this level of service, he thanked everyone as they ushered him inside.

A beautiful with blonde hair lady around her middle years approached him he hand extended smiling. Alex shock hands with her smiling back.

"Monsieur Lee, it is a pleasure to meet you. My name is Allison Mercier. I am the Executive Assistant to the CEO. Please, do not worry about your luggage, we will be holding it for you for now. Please come this way."

Alex followed Allison to the lift and went up.

"We are pleased to have you here with us, Monsieur Lee."

"Please, call me Alex."

Allison smiled, "Very well, Alex. Is there any questions you have?"

"Yes, in fact I do have a few. I apologize for my ignorance, may I inquire about the CEO? I do know that the CEO is Apolline Delacour, however, there has been little information in regards to her."

Allison laughed a bit, "I completely understand. Madame Delacour actually does lead a rather private life, thus it would be rather difficult to know much about her. I would recommend you find out personally, would make things easier for you. Anything else?"

Alex nodded, "Would you happen to know why me?"

Allison shook her head, "Again that would be up to Madame Delacour to say."

Alex sighed a bit to the amusement of Allison.

"The London branch is one of the oldest branch of the Delacour Group. It also happens to be one of the largest branches. What you see here is actually the new building that was designed and built a few years ago. The original office was located a few blocks down the street which was too cramped for us."

They reached the top of the floor which revealed a large reception area.

"The building itself is thirty-three floors in total. The first thirty floors are company space and the thirty-first floor is the head office."

Alex looked at her as they crossed the room, "And the top floors?"

"You will see."

Alex looked around the reception room once more. It was a large room that was bigger than his families ground floor combined. While his family lived in a large 4 bedroom 3 bathroom house that was two stories tall, the reception room dwarfed it. Turning around he saw there were the three elevators behind with the number 31 on above them. To both sides were fireplaces and sitting areas and what seemed to be doors leading to washrooms. Looking in front of him lay a marble desk for the receptionist that was large enough for three receptionists, but only showing one seat. In fact, when he made a closer inspection he realized that the walls and furniture were made of white marble with beautiful quality wood decorated with shining bits of metal made to look like silver.

The door at the end that they reached to was a large double door made of solid wood. Beautiful yet complicated patterns that look like various symbols designed the door. Seeing that this door to be made of solid wood and it being so large, Alex was surprise when Allison opened the door with ease.

She motioned him to wait for a moment and disappeared through the door closing it behind her. After a few moments, she came back out.

"Madame Delacour is ready to see you now."

Allison led Alex in. Alex was brought into a large room. At the end of the hall looked to be another door to his left was clearly the board room. Looking to the right, he saw a figure sitting at the largest office space he ever seen. The lady stood from her seat and began to walk towards Alex as he made his way towards her.

"Ah, Monsieur Lee. It is a pleasure to finally meet with you." She said with a slight French accent as she shook his hand.

"My name is Apolline Delacour, CEO of this company. Would you please take a seat?" She motioned towards another direction that looked like a living room at another area.

Alex sat opposite of his CEO. She was a beautiful lady who carried her age really well. Despite the fact that he knew she had a family and considering how long she he heard she led the company, he expected her to at least be in her middle ages, but she did not look to be a day over thirty-five.

"I hope you enjoyed your flight here."

"Yes, I have."

For roughly an hour they both exchanged pleasantries and got to know about each other a bit. Apolline Delacour was originally from France and had two daughters, the oldest just recently married to a family friend while the younger is still in school. He also learned that the family was invested in many things other than just fashion. They had their hands in entertainment, cruise lines, resorts, malls, wineries, and more. Despite the overwhelming information and actually hearing first-hand about it, Alex stood firm trying to digest all the information quickly.

Eventually they went over the position and the reason why he was selected. While he may have been chosen, Alex learned that he was in a sense still on probation as this was a huge jump in promotion and the position was not even for a smaller branch but one of the larger branches of the company. He would be on a year probation and see if he can fill the empty position, if not, Apolline stated that they should have someone to replace him and he could be moved elsewhere within the company.

Determined to keep the rare opportunity he just got, Alex agreed to do his best. Smiling at his answer, Apolline pulled out a folder and pulled out some documents for Alex to go over and sign. When the CEO pulled out the folder, he was shocked. He did not notice her carrying a folder to where they were seated but there it was. In fact, it was his employment folder.

Shaking his head from the thought, he went over the information and froze for a moment.

"Uh..."

"Yes, Monsieur Lee?"

"I just want to clarify… I thought I was going to be the Branch Manager for the London location?"

"You were," she replied.

"Were?" He asked.

"Were," she confirmed.

"So when this stated that I am the Regional Executive Director for all of Britain, not just London. That is correct?"

"Indeed."

"I do hope you understand that I am only eighteen years old, Madame. And I just recently came straight from Harvard," he began.

Apolline waved her hand cutting him off.

"Truthfully you were only supposed to be the Branch Manager for London for one of our divisions and not be in charge of the entire region. However, there are two reasons why we are offering you the position. First off, you have been familiar with the New York office and joined a little after a year since it was established. While your position was merely titled as an intern, you have been one of the few who have been at the branch the longest and helped to develop it under Monsieur Leroy's care. Secondly, you can highly recommended as a pupil from my good friend Professor Schmidt. The fact that you graduated with three degrees and several concentrations with a Summa Cum Laude in four years while working is a feat in itself. Third, most of the personnel that are qualified desire to not move due to family or personal reasons. Finally, we need a new fresh perspective, someone who can revitalize the branch and thus need someone new rather than someone who would stick to the course."

Alex thought about it for a moment.

"So you are in a sense taking a gamble with me?"

"Oui." she replied.

"The British region has been developing nicely, however, the last few years has shown stagnant progress. We wish to press on with the development and sales in the area. Thus, we would like you to lead us in this endeavor. Also seeing how smartly you are dressed, I believe that you would have no issues with leading in this position even though it is for fashion."

Alex chuckled at that, "Believe me, Madame. That should be credited to Mr. Leroy. Had it not been for him, I would probably be still wearing a baggy sweater and some sweatpants and maybe sandals."

Apolline eyes widened with mild horror, "I will have to see to Mr. Leroy getting a raise. Nobody should be wearing such an atrocious outfit."

He thought about that for a moment and nodded remembering how hilarious it was when he first walked in for work. Mr. Leroy looked completely disgusted and actually dragged him around to get some proper attire. While he did not care much about fashion, he decided it was probably better to at least look nice and started shopping a bit despite crying over the price tags on some of the clothing he bought. He smiled a bit and began to resume reading the rest before stopping again for another question.

"Madame. I am not familiar with this symbol. Is that supposed to be English Pound or U.S. Dollars?" he asked as he pointed to the strange symbol next to his salary.

Apolline eyes looked confused for a moment. "Galleons, Monsieur. Is that not enough? I do apologize I wished to negotiate with you directly instead of having my people do it. If the figure is too lo-"

Alex shook his head, "Apologies, Madame. It is just I have not heard of Galleons before."

Apolline eyes widened in realization for a moment and suddenly she barked out in French. While he understood French quite well, he acted as if he did not understand it that well and pretend to ignore what was being said.

Allison!

Allison rushed in immediately and came up to Madame Delacour.

Yes, Madame?

I accidently put Galleons here instead of converting it to Pounds. Please help me! I forgot that muggles do not use Galleons!

Allison excused herself for a moment with the document and had her back to both of them muttering a bit. A few seconds later, she turned around and presented the documents.

All fixed!

Thank you. Would you be able to take the documents once he signs it to HR.

Allison nodded and took a seat next to her.

Alex looked over the document once more and noticed the figures had changed as well as the amount into British Pounds.

"Um… I believe this will do nicely," he stated as he saw the large sum.

He read the rest of the benefits which were beyond excellent. He was only eighteen years old and he was making more than his father… actually more than his entire family ever made in a year.

He realized that Apolline clearly did not have a grasp of money concept as she literally offered him nearly double of what someone his position would have. Sure he was in charge of the British region and not just London. However, he was not going to complain about the perks and amount.

Seeing that everything was beyond satisfactory, he signed the document and handed the documents back to them.

Allison took the documents reviewed it once more before excusing herself and walking out.

"Now, about your living arrangements. We have your living area prepared for you. If you would like to see?" she asked.

"If you have something available for me that would be wonderful," Alex replied. "I was thinking of renting out a flat."

"Oh, no! We could not let you do that! Here come with me." Apolline led him to the door that was at the back of the room. Once opened it revealed a set of beautiful stairs leading further up to the next floor leading to a two-story penthouse.

It was a beautiful place with a lovely entrance with a sizable fireplace placed to warm guests as they entered. They went further into what was a very large and spacious living room that had many large comfy sofas and a giant flat screen TV against one side of the wall with two large sliding doors on either side of the TV leading out to a large balcony with a fire pit, grill, outdoor bar, comfy seating everything, complete with a giant Jacuzzi. On the other side opposite of the balcony was a large open concept kitchen with a full island and bar. A large dining table that would easily fit more than a dozen guests was located in the dining room. The whole open concept design made the place look a lot bigger as well which would allow traffic to come and go. On the other side of the living room was another entrance for the three elevators with a fireplace next to that entrance as well. In short, two entrances from different directions with stairs from both sides leading up and meeting at the top. Upstairs was a large family room in the middle with some sofas and shelves.

On the side towards the balcony was a large set of double doors that opened up to an expansive master bedroom. In the center was ridiculously large bed that was at least twelve feet in length and more than fourteen feet wide. On both sides of the bed were two glass doors that open up to a smaller private balcony. On right side of the bed was a large walk in closet. Next to it was a bathroom with a large vanity with several sinks. There were other bathroom necessities all there but the ones he noticed where the shower and the bathtub. Nearby was a large walk in shower that was large enough to fit over ten people easily with the water pouring down from the ceiling. Next to the show was a large bath tub that would fit at least half a dozen people comfortably with tinted windows that looked out to a lovely view. There were automatic curtains as well that allowed you to open and close should you wish to block out the sun or wish privacy. The same type of curtain were also throughout the house as well.

On walking back out the left side of the bed room was a private study with bookshelves lining up along the wall. A small private paradise for any bookworm with comfortable chairs and sofas scattered about allowing the person to read anywhere at their leisure. There was even a small kitchen and bar in the corner as well.

On the other side were four spacious guest rooms with a king size bed in each room. They each had a small private bathroom and balcony as well. There were another two more room which looked like rooms for up to four house staff. Should he wish to hire, the company was willing to pay for the four staff as long as he is able to find someone who would be able to fill the position. Apolline recommended at least one maid and a chef if able.

After Apolline gave him the tour of the place she looked at him expectantly.

"This was the main living quarters for the previous director and his family, so there is some space. Well, what do you think?" she asked her eyes dancing with merriment.

"Ah..," Alex replied.

"I take it that you approve, Monsieur Lee."

He slowly nodded, slightly dumbfounded by his new luck and good fortune.

"Fantastic! Just to remind you we do have a personal garage for you as well. We do have a driver available for you, but please understand he is only to assist you during business hours. You will have a regular maintenance and cleaning staff as well that will come by the check on the place. Other than that," she hands him the keys to the place. "You are all set! Welcome abroad!"

Alex smiled and shook her hand.

"Thank you Madame Delacour, and please call me Alex."

She smiled and nodded.

"Then please call me, Apolline."

"Thank you, Apolline."

"If there is nothing else left, I will take my leave and allow you to enjoy the rest of the evening. Please keep in mind that you are not expected to start work until the two weeks from now. However, feel free to look about as you may want to get a head start."

With that she left the penthouse leaving Alex standing by himself in a ridiculous large home.

Well… better get some sleep and get ready. He thought while heading towards the master bedroom once more.

He washed up and changed into his pajamas and looked into the mirror. Who would have thought that an eighteen year old Asian kid who is just about 5'8" with slightly messy dark hair would get this job? He smiled at himself happy about his luck and hoped his luck would continue and last.

As he got to bed, he promptly fell asleep thinking of the good fortune he had and what he could do to help ensure that this would not be just something that would last a year. Although he may not be into fashion, with the perks and amount he is getting paid, he is willing to dedicate his himself in this new field. He just needs to figure out what his next step is.

AUTHOR'S NOTE: This chapter was mainly to set the stage with the story. Hopefully it is enjoyable. I originally had this as a shorter story and decided to add a little more and divide up the sections a bit instead so that more details and information is available. Thank you again for taking the time to read. Reviews are also appreciated.