Ethan, I was just chatting with Isabella. Ethan eyes flicked between them. Everything okay? Sophia forced a laughter. Of course dear.
Isabella's gaze dropped. Sophia, would you like to schedule a meeting with the boss? Sophia's eyes flashed. No, I think I have said enough. With that Sophia turned and left.
Ethan watched Sophia go, concern etched on his face.
***********************************************
Later In the day…..
Isabella knocked softly on Ethan's door. Enter, he called out. She stepped inside, closing the door behind her. Ethan looked up from his papers. Isabella? I needed to discuss the smith account, she said, her voice crisp. Ethan nodded. But his gaze lingered. Isabella eyes darted around the room. Avoiding his gaze
Isabella, can we talk? About what? She asked, her tone guarded. Us, Ethan said, his voice low.
Isabella eyes snapped back to his. There's no us Ethan. He leaned forward. Don't say that. What happened between us…..it was real. Isabella's face remained impassive. A mistake, she whispered.
Ethan's eyes narrowed. A mistake? Isabella voice gained strength. The first one was a mistake and the second was in the heat of the moment. But I can assure you that it won't happen again.
Ethan's jaw clenched. I want to talk about it, Isabella. About what I feel…don't she interrupted. Her eyes flashed a warning. Ethan's face twisted in frustration.
Ethan's eyes locked onto Isabella, I need you to accompany me on a two-week business trip, he said, his tone firm. Isabella's brows furrowed. Why me? You are the best person for the job, he replied.
I don't think that's a god Idea, she said. Ethan expression turned resolute. It's not a request, Isabella. It's a requirement. Sophia bursts into the office, her face red. Ethan what is going on? She demanded.
Ethan is assigning me to a business trip, Isabella explained. Sophia's eyes narrowed. With you? Ethan nodded. Sophia's voice rose. You expect me to just sit back while you take your secretary on a two-week business trip? Ethan jaw clenched
Sophia, this is business. Sophia's laughter was shrill. Save it, Ethan. I know what you are doing. Isabella discomfort grew. Ethan perhaps….no, he interrupted. The decision is final. We leave tomorrow. Sophia stormed out. Isabella eyes met Ethan.
This isn't a good idea, she repeated. Ethan expression remained unyielding. We will make it work.
The private jet soars through the skies. Ethan and Isabella sat apart, tension between them. Awkward silence filled the space. Ethan broke the silence. Isabella, we need to discuss the presentation. She nodded.
Their discussion was stilted. Ethan couldn't help but steal glances at Isabella. Her beauty, her intelligence….he wanted more. The flight attendant interrupted. Welcome to New York. Please fasten your seat-belts. As they landed, Ethan's phone buzzed.
Sophia's text: enjoy your trip with your secretary. Ethan's jaw clenched. Isabella noticed. Is everything okay? He nodded.