Chapter 16

ISABELLA’S POV

In early March, we all gathered in the lobby for a meeting that marked the beginning of a new era with Levi as the CEO of Ferrari.

Levi was clad in a sharp dark blue suit, his hair neatly gelled back, his intense blue eyes settling on everyone in the conference room as he stood at the center of the crowd. His presence alone commanded attention, and as he began his speech, the room fell silent.

Thoughts of Mr. L and his impending punishment filled my head. On one hand, I was glad he was delaying the punishment; on the other hand, I felt excited to challenge myself, to push myself. Levi has...

"Team," Levi’s voice echoed with authority, drawing me away from my thoughts about Mr. L. “We stand on the brink of a crucial season that will determine the future of this company, and as they say, change is constant. Changes are inevitable, and we must adapt swiftly and decisively if we are to stay at the top.”

Whispers rippled through the conference, eyes darting between colleagues, gauging reactions. We were all apprehensive about what he was about to announce. Since Levi's arrival as CEO, there has been a seismic shift within Ferrari. His mandate was clear: efficiency, performance, and no room for complacency or overstaffing. But I think he's reaching a point where he wants to understaff, and everyone is rightly scared.

"My boss really is an attractive, stern man. Principled too."

"We will need to streamline our operations," Levi continued his unwavering tone compelling everyone to remain silent. "Resources will be directed towards the car and our drivers. There will be no tolerance for excess. Each department must justify its existence, and each worker must demonstrate their achievements weekly. Do you all understand?"

His words hung heavy in the air, sinking in amidst a mixture of determination and apprehension.

The team had been reshuffled, and not everyone remained after Levi's restructuring, yet it seemed he was far from finished. More people would likely lose their jobs, and as an intern, I feared for the security of my position. As Levi reduced staff, my tenure here seemed increasingly precarious.

Lord, save me. I can't go into the job market this period. I can't be unemployed. 

The pressure to perform had intensified, and each member was acutely aware of the stakes. As if I weren't under enough pressure already. I wished Mr. L were my boss instead. I knew Mr. L would treat his workers much better.

I was foolish to ever think Levi was like Mr. L. Levi is ruthless.

"We will all head to watch the trial race so we can contribute our ideas on how to improve the cars. Mrs. Sebastian, lead the way," Levi concluded the meeting.

We lined up and headed to the racetrack. The Melbourne sun beat down on Albert Park, casting a golden hue over the first race of the season. The air buzzed with anticipation as engines roared to life, but among us workers, the atmosphere was far from celebratory.

The Ferrari that took to the track in Melbourne bore the imprint of Levi's vision. It was leaner, more focused, stripped of any superfluous weight. Every component had been scrutinized, and every decision was calculated for maximum impact. The car was a success. 

As the race unfolded, Ferrari's drivers pushed themselves to the limit. The results were promising, though the true measure of Levi's influence would unfold over the season ahead.

For now, in the midst of the adrenaline-fueled spectacle at Albert Park, one thing was certain: Levi had set Ferrari on a path where every victory would be hard-earned, every setback an opportunity to evolve.


***

The pre-season officially began on Monday, but Levi's words continued to resonate in the minds of every Ferrari team member, leaving everyone overworked and walking on eggshells, myself included. I had little time to myself, and I used to visit Charlotte and chat with Mr. L. He was the only one keeping me sane amidst my boss's attempts to drive me and every other worker mad.

As the new racing season commenced, anticipation and tension gripped Ferrari's headquarters in Maranello. Leading up to the first race against rivals, whispers circulated among the staff.

Opinions on Levi were divided—some admired his bold leadership, while others criticized his tactics and claimed he was fostering a toxic environment. I found myself agreeing with both perspectives but tried to steer clear of gossip, even with June.

Following our victorious race, we convened for a long-awaited meeting. Levi, as always, was punctual and composed, dressed impeccably and exuding a smart, handsome demeanor. No worker dared to arrive late to the spacious conference room. Levi addressed the team concisely, getting straight to the point.

"Team, the season is here," his voice carried a note of intensity, softened slightly by a rare hint of warmth. There was applause and cheers, though for most, it felt obligatory rather than genuine.

"But before we dive into the grind, I believe in setting the right tone."

A collective murmur of curiosity filled the room as Levi's next words took everyone by surprise.

"This Friday," he announced, "will be Casual Friday. Wear your casual attire and enjoy an early afternoon off."

A wave of surprise swept through the room. Casual Fridays had never been part of Ferrari's corporate culture under Levi's leadership—only his father, Mr. Antonio, had occasionally allowed it.

Whispers filled the air.

“Is the boss feeling alright?”

“What’s gotten into him?”

“Could there be something serious going on?”

The speculation buzzed as Levi continued, a slight smile appearing on his face.

"And," he added, "before we dive into the season, I've booked the finest bar in Modena. I invite each of you to join me there to celebrate our successful start to the preseason race."

His announcement hung in the air, surprising everyone. It was a departure from Levi's usual serious demeanor. Some exchanged uncertain glances, unsure how to react to this unexpected gesture from their typically reserved leader.

“And you will be free to drink as you want.” He concluded.

The atmosphere shifted perceptibly. Skepticism gave way to tentative smiles and exchanged happy glances as the crowd clapped and cheered. 

Levi's gesture was unexpected and a huge relief from the hard work he has thrown at us since he took over the corporation.

Throughout the week, anticipation mingled with gossip. Everyone wanted to know what could have softened his heart.

My phone buzzed discreetly with a text from Mr. L, and I couldn't resist the urge to sneak a peek.

“This Friday is the day you invite your boss to your place for coffee, my sweet perfect sub,” the message read, punctuated with a teasing emoji. The monster master. God. How can I finish this task?