Ethan sat at his desk, his gaze lingering on Isabella as she worked. Her efficiency. And dedication made her an exceptional secretary.
His girlfriend, Sophia, didn't occupy his thoughts like Isabella did. Sophia was convenient, a social companion, not a romantic interest.
Isabella's phone rang, she answered, her voice professional. Ethan attention returned to his work, but his mind wandered. Isabella smile, her laughter, haunted him.
Later as Isabella handed him files, their fingers touched and Ethan felt a spark. Thank you Isabella, he said, his voice low. Isabella eyes met his, for a moment they held. Then she looked away.
Sir, I need to discuss the Johnson account, she said, composed. He nodded their discussion was productive, but tension simmered beneath.
Just as they were about to finish their discussion, Sophia walked in. Ethan darling, she said, kissing his cheek. Isabella excused herself and went back to her desk.
Days passed. Ethan expected Isabella to confront him about Sophia. But she didn't. Her professionalism remained intact. Ethan was concerned. Why didn't she react? Didn't she care? He couldn't shake off the feeling.
Their interactions became strained. He initiated meetings. She attended. Discussions were concise. No spark flew. Ethan's curiosity grew.
One evening, he went to her desk.
Is everything okay? He asked. She looked up. Her expression neutral. Yes sir, his eyes narrowed. Isabella? Her gaze dropped. I am fine, Ethan. The formal address stung. He sensed a wall. He couldn't breach.
Sophia's visits to the office increased. She dropped by unannounced, lingering by Ethan desk. Isabella's demeanor remained icy. Ethan found himself drawn to her frostiness.
He couldn't explain why. Sophia's presence only made him more aware of Isabella.
One afternoon, Sophia scheduled a lunch meeting. Ethan reluctantly agreed. As they left, Isabella gaze followed. Her expression unreadable. Ethan felt pang.
That evening, Ethan stayed late. Isabella remained, typing away. Ethan approached her desk. Isabella? She looked up. Yes? Walk with me, he said. She hesitated. Then stood side by side, they walked. Tension simmered. Ethan broke the silence
Isabella, I….. Don't, she interrupted, her voice firm. Ethan eyes locked unto hers. What's going on? He pressed. Her gaze dropped. Nothing Ethan. They stopped at the office door. Ethan hand brushed hers. Isabella jerked away. Ethan don't, she repeated. Her voice laced with warning.
The next day…..
Sophia arrived at Ethan office, her smile faltering as she spotted Isabella. Hello, Isabella, Sophia said. Her tone icy. Isabella looked up, maintaining her professionalism.
Working hard, I presume? Isabella nodded. Sophia gaze lingered. You seem comfortable here. Isabella expression remained steadfast. I'm just doing my job. Sophia smile twisted. I'm sure you are.
Ethan emerged from his office. Sophia, he called out. Sophia's facade softened.